Lifeguard Training Activities and Games : Creating a High-performance Staff Through Focused Fun

"Lifeguard Training Activities and Games" is a complete resource for the aquatic manager or lifeguard supervisor responsible for conducting site-specific on-the-job training for lifeguards.

The compilation of games, skill drills, activities and guidance is designed to enhance training and conditioning of lifeguards and create a high-performing staff.

The book provides over 70 proven training activities, divided into chapters by type of lifeguard skill.

Each activity is short enough to be part of an in-service or class warm-up session.

Most have variations, allowing for continued challenges of participant performances through increasing levels of difficulty.

Chapter one explores the rationale for using activities and games to develop a high-performance lifeguard staff.

Guidance is provided for selecting and conducting effective activities, including safety, risk management and documentation needs.

The activities and games in chapter two emphasize development of endurance, breath control, strength and co-ordination.

Lap swimming, the most common method of lifeguard conditioning, can be boring and tedious.

Varying conditioning activities increases interest and breaks monotony. Basing conditioning activities on essential lifeguard skills enhances skill learning.

Keeping fun and challenge in the training process increases enjoyment and furthers participation.

The activities and games in chapters three through five emphasize lifeguard surveillance, rescue and emergency response skills.

Standard rescue equipment, including rescue tubes, rescue boards, masks, fins and snorkels, as well as unique equipment such as space shooters and spinning Frisbees are used.

Individual challenge and self-testing activities, partner play and team competitions are all represented.