Junior Lifeguard Preparation passing the Swim Test

The Junior Lifeguard program, organized annually by the LA County Fire Department during the summer, requires participants to successfully complete a rigorous swim test for eligibility. To access additional details about the camp, please visit here.

Our private lessons are designed to assist swimmers in successfully passing the Junior Lifeguard Test. Our main focus is on providing comprehensive training in technique and endurance to help swimmers achieve qualifying times within their age groups. Participants will receive additional coaching on essential aspects such as proper breathing, turns, and race strategy. For optimal preparation, we recommend starting training in January, providing a three-month practice window before the tests commence in April/May.

It's important to be aware that some local cities offer Junior Lifeguard Prep classes, often accommodating a large number of children in each session. Unfortunately, due to high student-teacher ratios, these classes tend to focus primarily on covering extensive yardage without dedicating sufficient time to refining swimming techniques. Consequently, many participants face challenges in passing the test, often attributed to inadequate attention to technique. If you find yourself enrolled in one of these programs, it is highly beneficial to consider registering for our weekly private lessons, where individualized attention ensures a focus on both yardage and technique, significantly enhancing your chances of success in the Junior Lifeguard Test.

To register for Junior Lifeguard Prep lessons visit one of our locations:

Prerequisite: Swimmers must be able to swim 50 yards Freestyle without stopping.

Ages: 8 years and up.

Equipment needed: Swim suit, goggles and swimming cap (if you have long hair). Equipment recommendations can be found at our Shop.

Membership and Packages: We offer monthly memberships and Packages for Private lessons and Semi privates lessons.

Other Services we offer: Swim Lessons for Children, Adults and Junior Lifeguard.

Junior Lifeguard Group Classes

Currently, our Junior Lifeguard Prep group classes are not offered, but we're actively working on introducing them soon on the Westside of Los Angeles. If you're keen on joining, please subscribe to our Junior Lifeguard Group Classes mailing list by clicking the link below. We'll keep you informed once these classes become available. Additionally, feel free to specify your preferred city, days, and times, so we can better cater to your preferences. Thank you for your interest!

Junior Lifeguard Summer Camp

The Junior Lifeguard Summer Camp is run every summer by the LA County Fire Department Lifeguard Division in Los Angeles County. For more information on LAFD Junior guards and up to date information on the tests visit https://fire.lacounty.gov/junior-lifeguard-program/

In order to become a JG, your child must complete a 100-yard pool swim test under:

1:50 minute for 9-11 year olds - C Group

1:40 minute for 12-13 year olds - B Group

1:30 minute for 14-17 year olds - A Group

JLG swim tests will be in March and April. We suggest kids start swimming in February to give them enough time to train to achieve the qualifying time. They need at least 3 solid months of training and technique instruction to have a chance at making the qualifying time. We also recommend your child to be ready by the first test date because the sooner a child passes, the more likely he/she will be assigned to their beach of choice. (First come, first served.)