April 3, 2025 – Running USA is proud to announce a new partnership with AED Brands to provide Automated External Defibrillator (AED) rental services to its members. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of running events by ensuring that life-saving equipment is readily accessible.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death in the United States, with approximately 356,000 cases annually. Immediate access to an AED can significantly improve survival rates, as defibrillation within the first few minutes is critical.
“Ensuring runner safety is a top priority for event organizers, and access to an AED can make a life-saving difference in an emergency,” said Jay Holder, Executive Director of Running USA. “By offering an affordable AED rental program, we’re giving our members a practical solution to enhance safety at their events without the burden of a large upfront investment. This partnership with AED Brands empowers race directors to be better prepared and provide peace of mind to participants, volunteers, and spectators alike.”
AED Brands’ Vice President of Operations & Sales, Austin Hildebrandt, elaborated: “The recent study published in JAMA underscores the immense importance of having AEDs readily accessible during races. It reveals that survival rates significantly increase when defibrillation occurs promptly. This finding emphasizes why our collaboration with Running USA is crucial. We are dedicated to ensuring that these vital, life-saving devices are positioned exactly where they are needed, at the precise moment they are required the most.”
Through this collaboration, Running USA members can rent AED devices from AED Brands, ensuring that events of all sizes are equipped to handle cardiac emergencies. This service is particularly beneficial for organizers who may not have the resources to purchase AEDs outright but recognize the importance of having them on hand.
AED Brands is a trusted provider of AED devices and accessories, offering a range of products to suit various needs. Their expertise ensures that Running USA members receive high-quality equipment and support.
For more information on the AED rental program and how to participate, please visit https://www.aedbrands.com/running-usa-aed-rentals/.
About Running USA
Running USA is a non-profit that serves as the leading trade organization for the running industry in North America and hosts the nation’s preeminent industry conference annually. Through education, research, best practices, and data, Running USA is committed to supporting and facilitating growth, diversification, and excitement in running communities everywhere. We promote networking and idea-sharing between event organizers, sponsors, vendors, and athletes. Running USA is a member of a global alliance of organizations focused on the betterment of the global running community, including the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit https://www.runningusa.org/.
About AED Brands
Since 2004, AED Brands has been a nationally recognized leader in implementing lifesaving AED programs. We specialize in equipping organizations with the tools and expertise needed to ensure rapid and effective emergency response. Our tailored programs align with industry best practices and compliance standards, while our hands-on approach provides customers with the knowledge and resources to confidently manage cardiac emergencies.
For more information, visit www.aedbrands.com/running-usa-aed-rentals/ or contact Sean Riley at sriley@aedbrands.com.