Why gyms and fitness centers need AEDs
Hard exercise can trigger sudden cardiac arrest in members with heart conditions they don't know about. Gyms, studios, CrossFit boxes, pools and recreation centers see more cardiac emergencies than most businesses. With CPR and an AED in the first few minutes, survival odds improve dramatically. Without them, a member's chances drop with every passing minute.
Pennsylvania health club rules
Pennsylvania's health club law (73 P.S. § 2174) requires every health club to have a CPR-certified employee on the premises during operating hours, and clubs open more than eight hours a day and more than five days a week need more than one. Clubs that offer unstaffed hours, such as 24-hour key-fob gyms, must meet extra conditions to qualify, including having at least one AED on site, signage, a panic button, a 911 telephone and personal security devices. Check the statute or your attorney for how it applies to your club.
Where to put an AED in a gym
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Near the front desk, where staff are always present
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Within sight of cardio and free-weight areas
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Near the pool deck, group fitness studios or courts in larger facilities
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In an alarmed wall cabinet with clear signage, so members can find it during unstaffed hours
Which Philips AED fits a gym?
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Philips HeartStart FRx: rugged and water- and dust-resistant, a strong fit for pools, outdoor bootcamps and sports facilities.
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Philips HeartStart OnSite: simple voice coaching for front-desk staff, ideal for studios and smaller clubs.
See current options on our AEDs for sale page.
Staff CPR/AED certification
CMR CPR is led by a retired paramedic who trains people to use AEDs. We certify trainers, front-desk staff and managers on site so you can keep a certified employee on every shift. We also help track pad and battery expiration dates (see how often you need to replace an AED).
Gym AED FAQs
Do personal trainers need CPR/AED certification? Most trainer certifications already require current CPR/AED. We can certify your whole team together at your facility.
How many AEDs does a gym need? A common goal is getting an AED to anyone who collapses within about three minutes. Most single-room gyms need one. Multi-floor clubs or facilities with pools and courts often need two or more.
What should staff do if a member collapses? Call 911, start CPR and get the AED. Our guide on how to use an AED walks through each step.
Keep your members safe
CMR CPR serves gyms, studios and fitness centers across Bucks County and southeastern Pennsylvania. Request a quote for AEDs and staff training, or browse the full AED Center.
