When a medical emergency occurs in a gym, staff must be ready to respond quickly and support the member in need. Without proper training, employees may face situations they are unsure of how to handle. Fortunately, Christian Duran, general manager of Excel Fitness’s Raleigh, North Carolina, location, was prepared to act when a medical emergency occurred at the club.

While Duran was working inside the club one day, member Steven Jones collapsed near the treadmills. Two Planet Fitness^® members immediately began CPR while Duran retrieved and used the AED, and the assistant manager called 911. Jones had stopped breathing, but the group’s quick, coordinated response restored his pulse and helped save his life. He was breathing on his own by the time EMS arrived. Duran also kept Jones’ wife informed throughout the incident. Fortunately, Jones has since recovered and returned safely to his family.

The American Red Cross took notice of his heroic action. On June 29, Duran was awarded the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Action for his fast response to save the life of the member.

“It’s a real honor to have been recognized for this award, although I was just happy and relieved that Mr. Jones made it through and recovered,” said Duran. “Life-threatening emergencies are always scary and difficult to deal with in-club, but it goes to show the importance of the training we receive to handle these situations because it could literally be the difference between life and death.”

Duran attended the awards ceremony with Jones and his three children. Meeting Jones’ family helped him understand the full impact of his actions, not only on Jones’ life, but on his family’s as well.

“That really put everything into perspective because I just thought what if things were handled differently or if there was any hesitation. Mr. Jones may have not made it, and those three great kids would have been without their father and that’s something I don’t think I could move on from,” Duran said.

Duran now has a greater appreciation for his work at Planet Fitness, and he looks forward to continuing to make a huge impact on the lives of Excel’s members.

“Our work and responsibilities here at Planet Fitness are so important, especially when it comes to our members’ health and safety. We are more than just a gym. We are a community. We are a culture. We are a safe place where anyone can come in and improve their life and health. That’s something I will always be proud of and be proud to represent,” said Duran.