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How to Start Your Own CPR Training Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
- David Kotz
- Mar 25
- 5 min read
So, you’re thinking about starting a CPR training business? Great choice! You’re about to enter an industry that saves lives, provides steady work, and—if you do it right—keeps customers coming back every two years like clockwork. But before you go all-in and quit your day job, let’s talk about what to expect, what you need to get started, and how to avoid the mistakes that could make you want to perform CPR on your own business.
Step 1: Should You Start a CPR Training Business?
Short answer? Yes!
CPR training is in demand. Healthcare workers, teachers, personal trainers, lifeguards, massage therapists, and even babysitters need CPR certification. Plus, the beauty of this industry is that certification renewals are required every two years. That means a built-in customer base if you deliver quality training.
But here’s the key—unless you have a financial cushion, don’t go quitting your job just yet. Start it as a side hustle. Build your reputation, get comfortable with the business side, and then, when it makes sense, go full-time. I started this way, and trust me, it made all the difference.
Step 2: Choosing Your Target Market
There are different levels of CPR training, and your success depends on choosing the right market to start with.
Option 1: Healthcare Providers (BLS - Basic Life Support)
Doctors, nurses, EMTs, and allied health professionals all need BLS certification.
Demand is always high because these professionals must renew their certification regularly.
BLS is a structured class, meaning you'll be following strict guidelines from either the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross (ARC).
Option 2: Lay Rescuers (Heartsaver® or Standard CPR)
Teachers, personal trainers, gym staff, coaches, daycare workers, security guards, and other non-medical professionals need CPR training too.
Layperson CPR classes tend to be shorter and more flexible.
There’s less competition in niche markets like corporate training or small businesses.
🔹 Pro Tip: Start where you have connections. If you’re a firefighter, EMT, or work in healthcare, BLS might be your best bet. If you’re a teacher or coach, Lay Rescuer CPR could be the way to go.
Step 3: Getting the Right Equipment
You can’t teach CPR without equipment, and this is where you’ll need to invest some money upfront. But don’t worry—I’ll tell you what you actually need and what you can skip (for now).
Essential Equipment List to Get Started:
✔️ CPR Mannequins (a.k.a. training mannequins, NOT dummies—trust me, they’re offended by that term)
Start with three adult mannequins and three infant mannequins.
Laerdal’s "Annie" mannequins are the gold standard. They last forever and are easy to repair.
Avoid the "blue guys." They’re cheap for a reason. (If you know, you know.)
✔️ Pocket Masks & Bag Valve Masks (BVMs)
Pocket masks let students practice rescue breathing without direct contact. (Because mouth-to-mannequin contact is... just no.)
BVMs (aka "Ambu bags") are a must for BLS courses.
Bag Valve Mask on a Manikin
✔️ AED Trainers
You’ll need at least three. AEDs are required in most workplaces, so knowing how to use them is key.
✔️ Projector, Laptop, or TV
Most CPR courses require a video component. Some people use a laptop; others prefer a projector or TV. Go with whatever works best for your setup.
Budget:
Expect to spend $1,000 to $2,000 on equipment to get started. It sounds like a lot, but remember—this is a business investment, and good equipment lasts years.
Step 4: Finding Your First Clients
If you’ve got your certifications and your gear, you’re ready to teach! But how do you get people to sign up for your class?
Start with Who You Know
Work in a school? Offer a CPR class to teachers or staff.
In emergency services? Ask your department if you can train their team.
Have gym connections? Personal trainers need CPR.
Use Social Media & Networking
Set up a Facebook page for your business (free marketing!).
Join local Chamber of Commerce or BNI groups for networking.
Post in community groups and let people know you’re offering classes.
Cold Outreach (But Make It Warm)
If you’re reaching out to businesses, don’t just send a boring email that says, "Hey, I teach CPR. Want a class?" Instead, try:
💬 "Hi [Name], I noticed your business requires CPR certification for staff. I offer engaging, hands-on training and can come to your location. Let’s set up a class! When’s a good time to chat?"
Step 5: Instructor Mindset vs. Business Owner Mindset
Teaching CPR is one thing. Running a CPR business is another. You need to think like both an instructor and a CEO.
Instructor Mindset
✅ Be engaging! No one wants to sit through a boring class.✅ Follow the curriculum but make it interactive and fun.✅ Team teach when possible—it makes the class smoother and more enjoyable.
Business Owner Mindset
✅ Charge upfront! If people don’t prepay, they’re more likely to no-show.✅ Have a refund policy. If they miss class, that’s not your financial problem.✅ Send renewal reminders. CPR certs expire every two years—so email students at 22 months to book their renewal.
Step 6: Scaling Your Business
Once you’ve got a few classes under your belt, it’s time to grow.
✔️ Get Google Reviews
A simple QR code in class linking to your Google reviews page helps build credibility fast.
Ask happy students to leave a review—this will help new customers find you.
✔️ Offer Group Discounts
Companies love bulk training. Offer discounts for larger groups.
✔️ Automate Renewal Reminders
Set up a system to email past students when their certification is about to expire. This keeps your business running without extra effort.
✔️ Expand Your Services
Offer additional courses like First Aid, Stop the Bleed, or Active Shooter Training. The more you offer, the more clients you attract.
Final Thoughts: Just Start!
Starting a CPR business is not as complicated as it seems. Take it one step at a time:
🔹 Pick your market🔹 Get your equipment🔹 Start with people you know🔹 Price it right & set clear policies🔹 Build word-of-mouth
And most importantly—have fun! Teaching CPR is a rewarding experience, and once you find your rhythm, it’s an amazing business to be in.
What’s Your First Step?
I challenge you to set ONE small goal this week to move your business forward. Write it down, work on it, and let me know in the comments what you’re focusing on! Let’s build this together.
Use the hashtag #CPRtoCEO on social media so we can follow your journey!
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