Which statement is true regarding the skills needed in the Shallow Water Lifeguarding course?

In the context of the Shallow Water Lifeguarding course, the statement about using only legs while treading is necessary aligns with the specific focus on developing the skills that ensure lifeguards can effectively maintain their position in the water while keeping their heads above the surface.

Treading water with just the legs helps build leg strength and endurance, which are critical for lifeguards who may need to support themselves for extended periods while observing the environment and potentially rescuing individuals in need. This skill ensures that the lifeguard can stay afloat effectively without using their arms, which could be occupied in another task, such as reaching for a rescue tube or assisting a swimmer.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the requirements of the course. For example, while swimming on the back or side can be part of a lifeguard's skill set, it is not a specific requirement of this course. Similarly, completing a timed event within a certain duration or engaging in water competency for a specific duration may apply to other lifeguarding or swimming courses, but they do not specifically encapsulate the key focus of leg-only treading as a foundational skill in shallow water lifeguarding.