Lifeguard Readiness Program

The Lifeguard Readiness Program introduces participants to lifeguard training through lifeguard classes that focus on specific swimming and water skills. In this program, participants practice swimming 300 yards continuously while demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing, tread water for 2 minutes using only their legs, and complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds. The classes are blended learning lifeguard courses that include required online portions to be completed by the first day of class.

• Ages: 12–18 years old
• Schedule: Multiple evening class options on weekdays
• Price: $24 for Residents; $30 for Non-Residents

The Lifeguard Readiness Program is open to ages 12 years and older and teaches basic skills and training to become a lifeguard for the American Red Cross. All online portions of the blended learning lifeguard courses require access to the internet and must be completed by the first day of class. Participants must be 15 years of age on or before the last scheduled session of the course and must attend every day of the registered class. The program is offered by the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department, which has been nationally accredited since 2018 through the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies and the National Recreation and Park Association, placing it in the 1 percent of agencies nationwide and making it the 15th agency in Texas to be nationally accredited. The department’s mission is to provide indoor and outdoor leisure services to the El Paso community to develop skills, socialize, experience nature and live a healthier lifestyle.

Last updated January 29, 2026.