Last night my personal training client had a heart attack at the end of our session together.
We got him to the hospital quickly
and he was treated and is going to be just fine.
Even though we were able to go through the treatment protocol
at the gym and get him aid, it was still
scary as hell.
For both of us.
As a trainer, I have to get certified in how to do CPR, First Aid, and use an AED. I have to re-certify every two years. Going to that 4 hour training at 8am on a Saturday is always SO annoying but shit am I glad I’ve gone to so many. It allowed me to recognize symptoms and get my client help as quickly as possible.
Do you know the warning signs of a heart attack?
Chest Dicomfort
Most heart attacks start with pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or pain that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
Discomfort in other areas of the upper body.
Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
Shortness of breath
With or without chest discomfort.
Breaking out in a cold sweat.
Nausea
Lightheadedness
These are listed by the American Heart Association . If you’ve never taken a CPR/First Aid/AED course before, it’s definitely worth it! Check the AHA or your local chapter of the Red Cross for courses in your area. It’s usually a 4 hour course and it’ll cost about $25-$30 depending on where it’s hosted but it’s completely worth it. Getting help as soon as the signs pop up can save a life! We can’t all be as cool as the doctors on Grey’s Anatomy, but we can definitely help the process until they can get medical help. Minutes matter in a heart attack or stroke.
photo via
Wow scary – I’m always afraid that a patient will have a heart attack on me during a physical therapy session. Thanks for reminding me to renew my CPR license!
oh my word Ami, I can’t imagine! I’m so glad everything is ok. My sister is a teacher and has the same training, she saved someone’s life in a store one day, knowing what to do/how to react. It’s so scary and such a relief at the same time!
wow! that is sooo scary! I know it happens, but I hope that never happens to you again…
you are a much more together person than me lol because I would have LOST IT!
OHMIWORD how scary!!! Glad your client was okay!
Thanks for posting, it’s always good to get the refresh.
xoxo