Why Emergency First Aid Should Be Non-Negotiable for Every Fitness Professional
A Tutors Perspective
Meet Trevor Clarke, one of our expert Tutors who has helped shape the fitness industry for almost 40 years.
Trevor Clarke has been a Personal Training Tutor, training thousands of PTs and Gym Instructors with YMCAfit since 1988. Initially starting his career as a TfL ticket salesperson, he has gone on to make a significant impact in the fitness industry breaking down barriers, leading inspiring projects, and even gaining national attention through interviews on the BBC.
Our Tutors are at the heart of everything we do, and Trevor’s contribution to our courses and our history is both vast and remarkable. He is, without doubt, one of the best Fitness Tutors in the country, and a true legend of the industry.
Read on as Trevor tells us, in his own words, what he’s learned over the years—because when it comes to working in fitness, it’s not just about sets, reps and results. It’s about being ready for the unexpected. And if there’s one thing Trevor is passionate about passing on, it’s why emergency first aid training should be a non-negotiable part of every fitness professional’s toolkit.
A Tutor’s Perspective: Why First Aid Still Matters
After more than 30 years teaching gym instructor, personal trainer, and first aid qualifications, I’ve seen the fitness industry evolve in countless ways. New trends come and go, training techniques advance, and technology reshapes how we coach. But there’s one thing that hasn’t changed—and frankly, shouldn’t: the absolute necessity for every fitness professional to be trained in emergency first aid.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard fitness professionals say, “I’ve never had to use it.” My response is always the same: Yet. Because when that moment does come—and it can come in a quiet studio, a busy gym floor, or a weekend bootcamp—you need to be ready. Lives can change in seconds.
How can you get emergency first aid trained?
That’s why I believe so strongly in the YMCA Awards Level 3 Emergency First Aid at Work qualification (603/1902/1), and why I’ve had the privilege of delivering it to thousands of learners over the years. Yes, it’s a one-day course—but it’s an incredibly impactful one.
We cover:
How to assess an emergency situation quickly and calmly
- How to assess an emergency situation quickly and calmly
- CPR and AED use
- Recovery position
- Managing wounds, bleeding, choking and shock
This course isn’t just ticking a box. It’s about developing confidence—so that in a real-life emergency, you don’t panic or freeze. You act.
What Learners Can Expect On Course Day?
All the assessments are integrated throughout the day, which makes the experience practical, engaging, and realistic. The course is accessible to all fitness professionals; no formal qualifications are needed. We do ask for full attendance, not for formality’s sake, but because every session is packed with practical, potentially life-saving knowledge. Every moment is designed to build your confidence and capability, so you can step up when it counts.
And yes, we do role-play. It might feel a bit silly at first, but it’s often the part people remember and learn from the most.
Why It Matters—Now More Than Ever?
In my experience, those who train others physically are often the first people on the scene when something goes wrong. Whether it’s a fall, a faint, or something far more serious, you become the first responder. That responsibility is something we should take seriously as professionals.
Beyond that, staying current is critical. Procedures, guidelines, and best practices evolve. That’s why re-certification is required every three years—and why I encourage fitness professionals to treat it as they would any other CPD (Continuing Professional Development).
A Personal Note
Over the decades, I’ve seen many of my former students use their training in real emergencies. Some have resuscitated gym members. Others have calmly supported injured clients until paramedics arrived. Many have shared that their first aid training gave them the confidence to respond, not just in the gym, but in everyday life.
It’s moments like those that remind me why I keep teaching this qualification. Because while most of what we do in fitness is about helping people live better, first aid is about helping people stay alive.
So if you’re serious about being a well-rounded, responsible, and respected fitness professional, make this qualification a priority. It’s not just a course. It’s a life skill.
Ready to ensure you have your clients’ safety and emergency wellbeing in hand? Check out our Emergency First Aid in the Workplace course page for more details and more information on upcoming course dates!