There are a lot of benefits to having CPR certification. Knowing CPR is a valuable asset, and is something that looks great on a resume. In addition, it’s simply an incredible skill to have. You never know when your CPR knowledge could help you to save a life.

However, not everyone has the time to take a CPR class. Fitting classes into a busy schedule is a big challenge for any student or working adult. Because of this, there are a number of people who are interested in getting CPR certification online. But is that really an option?

In order to be officially certified to use CPR, you will need to take some classes in person, and you will need to be able to to demonstrate that you’re competent in CPR in front of an expert. However, you will be able to receive the bulk of your training on the internet. The Red Cross knows that a lot of people want to attend their classes, but can’t find the time for them. Because of this, they’ve started offering classes that combine online learning with lessons that are in the classroom. You may only have to show up for one class, and can get the rest of your training online. If being certified isn’t important to you, there’s a lot of CPR training that you can get online. There are detailed video lessons and online courses that you can take without spending a penny. These courses are packed full of helpful information.

With that said, it’s important to keep in mind that you need hands on time with a trainer in person if you want to become a CPR expert. When you’re on the internet, there’s no one who can correct the things you’re doing wrong. You need to meet with someone in person if you want to know you’re performing CPR correctly. Talk to the Red Cross and see what their online courses are like. Even if you don’t have a lot of time to spare, they can probably help you to come up with a solution that will work for you.

For example, taking online classes and one short weekend class in person is almost like getting CPR certification online. You’ll be able to plan the bulk of your classes around your own schedule, and will only have to carve out a single day of in-person time. You shouldn’t give up on getting your certification just because you can’t do anything online. Organizations like the Red Cross make it easy for people to get the kind of training they need even if they don’t have a lot of time for classes. You don’t need to spend a lot of time in classroom.

Look at your options, and decide what you want to do. No matter what your final choice is, studying CPR will help you in a number of ways. You’ll never know when you need to use this skill. All that you can say for sure is that it’s a skill you’ll be glad to have in an emergency.