When people walk into a gym, they’re making a commitment to better their health. But even the healthiest individuals can suffer sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) without warning. That’s why Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are not a luxury in fitness centers—they’re a necessity.
The Hidden Risk in Fitness Settings
Exercise, particularly strenuous activity, can trigger sudden cardiac arrest in individuals with undiagnosed heart conditions. According to the American Heart Association: Over 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur annually in the U.S. Nearly 1 in 5 occurs in a public setting like a gym or recreational facility. While SCA can strike without warning, survival depends heavily on one thing: how quickly an AED is used.
Minutes Matter: The Chain of Survival
The survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest drops by 7–10% for every minute that passes without defibrillation. By 10 minutes, survival is almost impossible without intervention. AEDs are designed to be used by laypeople, with voice prompts and simple instructions that allow a bystander to act confidently while waiting for EMS to arrive. When used within the first 3–5 minutes, an AED can increase survival rates by 2 to 3 times. Having one available in your gym could literally be the difference between life and death.
Real-Life Incidents in Fitness Centers
Gyms across the country have already experienced life-saving events thanks to onsite AEDs. From personal trainers collapsing during a workout to patrons suffering cardiac arrest on a treadmill, AEDs have proven to be critical in countless real-world emergencies.
Even the most physically fit individuals may have undetected cardiac conditions.
You can’t predict when an emergency will happen—but you can be prepared for it.
Protect Your Members and Your Business
In addition to being a life-saving device, an AED is a smart risk management tool. Here’s why:
Liability Protection:
Most states, including Missouri, have Good Samaritan laws that protect both businesses and individuals from liability when an AED is used in good faith.
For more information on AEDs or training call us at 314-596-2497.