Inclusive CPR Training: Different Body Types in CPR Manikins

A cardiac arrest can happen to anyone. Yet for many years, training was mainly carried out using one type of CPR manikin: a “standard” adult male. In reality, this does not reflect real-life situations. People differ in body type, gender and physiology. That is why inclusive training with different body types is becoming increasingly important.

Why inclusive training matters

During a real resuscitation, every second counts. Doubt or hesitation can cost valuable time. By training with a variety of body types:

participants recognise different situations more quickly
barriers and hesitation are reduced
training becomes more realistic

This increases the likelihood that someone will take action in an emergency.

What differences play a role?

1. Gender (for example female CPR manikins)

Research shows that there is often more hesitation when starting CPR on women. Reasons include uncertainty about hand placement, social barriers and fear of doing something wrong.
Training with a female CPR manikin helps participants learn correct hand placement on a different body profile and prepares them for more realistic scenarios.

2. Body type and chest resistance

Not every body responds the same way to chest compressions. Consider the differences between a slim and a heavier build.

In addition to standard models, there are also specialised CPR manikins designed for training on people with obesity, known as bariatric training models (e.g. Fat Old Fred). These simulate: