CPR Training for Coaches

For the past 50 years, health professionals and ordinary citizens have been using CPR to save lives. CPR, short for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a combination of chest compressions and breathing techniques used on victims having a heart attack or cardiac arrest. CPR training for coaches is necessary due to the responsibility they have to the children and adults they coach. This training is readily available through local classes and online.

  1. Red Cross

    • Through the Red Cross, coaches can take CPR training online. This class is a combination of Sport Safety Training and first aid for coaches and is developed in conjunction with the US Olympic Committee.

    Online Training

    • The ease of online training provides a venue that can be taught at any time, easily fitting in with the coach's schedule. To receive CPR Certification, coaches must pass an online test and then attend a session where they will be asked to perform CPR and review the skills taught throughout the course.

    Instructors

    • CPR training through private groups and public classes is generally provided by health care professionals trained by the American Heart Association. In addition to CPR, the instructors will provide lessons in first aid and how to relieve choking and clear air passages.

    Considerations

    • Many CPR training courses have instructors that will teach at your home, office or school. It is important to let the instructor know what kind of training you need, as the demands and responsibilities of a coach may differ from those working in other environments, such as an office. Due to the high risk of sports injuries, coaches are trained in looking for potential hazards and in making the right decision in high pressure situations regardless of what level they coach.

    Classroom Format

    • Instruction is available from the American Heart Association in classroom format. This is a four-hour course which requires a written exam and skills test. Some private companies offer classes for individuals or groups with as little as five people. All students completing the course will be certified.

    New Technology

    • With the huge growth in smart phone technology, a CPR and first aid guide is now available from the American Heart Association as an Apple iPhone App. The advantage for coaches is the ability to have this information anywhere and anytime. No matter if the team is home or away, a coach will have the most up-to-date emergency information at his fingertips.