Prepare to make a difference with American Red Cross lifeguarding and water safety courses! These comprehensive trainings are designed to equip you with the critical skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies. Our courses combine hands-on practice with expert instruction—so you're ready to act when every second counts.
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We're Hiring!
The MetroWest YMCA is currently seeking lifeguards and swim instructors for its three locations. Please review open positions and apply today.
Upcoming Trainings
Trainings will be held at the Clearbrook Family Swim Club.
Ready to Register?
Member registration: Tuesday, June 3
Community registration: Tuesday, June 10
Click 'View' to see all available days and times for each class, then choose the one you'd like to register for.
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Swim evaluation R.24 consists of:
- Swim-Float-Swim sequence - Participants must have a strong freestyle and/or breaststroke and be able to swim the 150yd continuously without stopping, 2 minutes of Treading Water (No Hands!), then a last 50yd - Participants must be able to tread water in a depth of 9 feet without using their hands for 2 minutes without stopping.
- Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds:
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards. The face may be in or out of the water. Swim goggles are not allowed.
- Surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
- Return to the surface and swim 20 yards on the back to return to the starting point with both hands holding the object and keeping the face at or near the surface so they can get a breath. Candidates should not swim the distance underwater.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
Prices vary by course.
All online coursework must be completed prior to the first day of class. Participants must attend all days at the specified times and pass the written and physical portion of the course to successfully achieve their lifeguarding certification.
The prerequisite evaluation may be completed prior to the start of class by contacting Hayley Maskell at HMaskell@Metrowestymca.org. If the prerequisites are not passed on the first day of class, no refunds will be given.
If you have any additional questions about the American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification course, please contact David Witkus, Senior Aquatics Director: dwitkus@metrowestymca.org
Become a Member
When you join the Y, you get more than just a gym and pool. You get a community of people who can support your goals. Member benefits include unlimited group exercise classes and 30-50% off programs like swim lessons, sports, fitness, adventure, and camp!
Financial Assistance
The Y believes that finances should not be an obstacle to healthy living. We are able to offer financial assistance to help cover the cost of membership and programs, thanks to generous donations to our Annual Campaign. Learn more about financial assistance options.