Developing sporting ability through lifesaving is as relevant to drowning prevention as the achievement of lifesaving awards and qualifications.

Sport can reach out to engage both individuals and communities, who may not be attracted to our current offering.

As the Governing Body for Lifesaving Sport, we have already defined the best pathway for participants moving from the acquisition of basic aquatic skills to becoming an elite lifesaving athlete. We will put in place the structures required to ‘fill the gaps’ as appropriate to help members fulfil their potential.

Lifesaving Sport is a competitive sport that gives you the opportunity to compete with fellow lifesavers and grow your essential lifesaving skills.

Originally developed to improve the physical and mental agility of lifeguards, Lifesaving Sport has grown into an international competitive swimming discipline that tests fitness, rescue and first aid skills. What’s great about this sport is that it’s not just about physical aptitude – it’s also about the ability to prioritise, adapt and show initiative.

Lifesaving is a rapidly growing sport, both in the UK and Worldwide. It has established tiers of competition from local to international level. There are World Championships, Commonwealth Championships, European Championships and it is part of the World Games.

Within RLSS UK we have the following National Championships:

• National Lifesaving Championships
• National Speed Championships
• National Simulated Emergency Response Competition