Swimming is not just a sport; it’s a vital life skill that provides numerous opportunities, from competitive events to essential safety roles such as lifeguarding.
At RocketSwim, we understand the aspirations of young swimmers and their parents. One common question we receive is: “What level in RocketSwim does an athlete need to be eligible for lifeguarding?”
This blog post aims to provide clarity on this topic and offer guidance for those pursuing lifeguard certification.
Start with RocketSwim Levels
RocketSwim offers a structured progression of levels designed to develop
- swimming skills,
- endurance, and
- confidence in the water.
Our program is divided into non-competitive and competitive tracks, each with specific goals and training focuses.
Non-Competitive Swimming Program
The non-competitive program includes three levels:
- Novice: This entry-level class focuses on basic water safety, learning fundamentals, and building comfort in the water.
- Beginner 2: At this stage, swimmers start to refine their previous skills, and increase their comfort and confidence in the water.
- Beginner 1: The highest level in the non-competitive program, where swimmers develop more advanced skills, improve stroke techniques, and build endurance for 50m.
Learn More about our Non-competitive Swimming Lesson
Competitive Swimming Program
After completing the non-competitive program, swimmers can advance to our competitive program, which starts with the Junior 3 level and ends with International Master of Sport ( Ranks description) :
- Junior 3: This is the entry-level in the competitive program. Swimmers at this level are proficient in all strokes, have significant endurance, and can swim long distances with ease.
- International Master of Sport: The final level of our program, which prepares the best athletes for World Championships & Olympic Games.
Learn More about our Competitive Swimming Lesson in Toronto
Lifeguard Certification Requirements
To be eligible for a lifeguard course, certain swimming competencies must be met. Typically, this includes the ability to perform an endurance swimming event, such as a 400-meter freestyle, within a specific time frame (under 10 minutes). This ensures that the candidate has the necessary stamina and skill to perform lifeguarding duties effectively.
Achieving Lifeguard Eligibility at RocketSwim
To meet the swimming lifeguard certification requirements, swimmers need to progress through the following steps at RocketSwim:
- Complete All Beginner Levels: Swimmers must pass all three levels in the non-competitive program (Novice, Beginner 2, and Beginner 1). This progression ensures they build a solid foundation in swimming skills, endurance, and water safety.
- Advance to Junior 3: After completing the Beginner 1 level, swimmers advance to the Junior 3 level in the competitive program. This level provides the rigorous training needed to develop the endurance and technique required for lifeguard certification. The time standard in the 400m freestyle for this group is just under 10 minutes. For more information on time standards check out RocketSwim Ranks & Levels table
The Value of Competitive Experience
While our non-competitive program can prepare swimmers for the basics, gaining some competitive experience offers additional benefits:
- Resilience and Strength: Competing helps build mental and physical resilience. Swimmers learn to push their limits and perform under pressure.
- Skill Enhancement: The rigorous training for competitions sharpens skills and improves overall swimming performance.
- Lifetime Water Resiliency: Competitive swimming instills a deep-seated confidence and proficiency in the water, which is invaluable for both personal safety and lifeguarding.
Bonus Resource: Nutrition Tips for Swimmers to boost performance
At RocketSwim, we are committed to helping our swimmers achieve their goals, whether it’s becoming a proficient swimmer, competing at higher levels, or attaining lifeguard certification. Our structured program, from the non-competitive Novice levels to the Junior 3 level, provides the foundation needed to meet lifeguard standards. We encourage swimmers to embrace the competitive aspect of the sport for a well-rounded and robust swimming experience.
Ready to dive in and start your journey with RocketSwim?
Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you achieve your swimming goals!
Hurrah, The wait is Over