The Importance Of AEDs At CrossFit Gyms

August 24, 2022

CrossFit is a fast-growing fitness community that has positively impacted the lives of people across the world. All CrossFit gyms are unique but they focus on the continual pursuit of excellence. This includes excellent coaching, excellent programming, and most importantly, an excellent community. There are over 14,000 CrossFit gyms across the world in 155 different countries.

SCA At CrossFit Gyms

According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, “sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. It strikes people of all ages who may seem to be healthy, even children and teens.”

Although sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time, the likelihood of sudden cardiac arrest can increase during intense exercise. CrossFit involves high intensity exercises, so having an AED at CrossFit gyms is detrimental. When sudden cardiac arrest strikes, it is crucial CPR is provided immediately and an AED is used quickly to help save the person’s life.

Real Life Scenarios

There have been sudden cardiac arrest saves at various CrossFit gyms across the world but the most famous one happened on February 12, 2017, when Bob Harper, a trainer from the show, “The Biggest Loser,” collapsed following his workout.

Thankfully, there were two doctors in the gym that day. They performed CPR and delivered two shocks with an AED before paramedics arrived. The paramedics delivered a third shock with the defibrillator and then brought Harper to the hospital. Harper has made a full recovery and continues to work out today!

In 2021, a 38-year old named Kyle Lindstrom was finishing a max set of pull-ups and was struggling to breathe. He stopped to catch his breath but couldn’t seem to. His pregnant wife ran to his side to see what was going on.

Luckily, there were two first responders in the class. They called 9-1-1, started performing CPR, and grabbed the AED. Because of the fast response, Kyle survived!

Be Prepared With An AED

It is crucial all CrossFit gyms are prepared for a sudden cardiac arrest emergency. The best way to be prepared is:

• Have an AED accessible within 3 minutes of all locations
• Make sure your coaches and other staff is certified in CPR and how to use an AED
• Check the AED frequently to be sure it is ready to help save a life
• Create an emergency action plan and share it with all staff and gym members

To learn more about Defibtech and to join us on our quest to save lives from sudden cardiac arrest, visit www.Defibtech.com.