Accidents happen – even in the safest environments. But when they occur during one of your sessions, are you protected against them? We explore liability in fitness training
Could you be held liable for an unexpected accident that takes place during one of your sessions? The answer is yes.
Consider these real claims made against fitness professionals:
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- A client trips and falls against a doorframe during a session.
- A participant ignores instructions, falls from equipment and breaks an ankle.
- A medicine ball rebounds unexpectedly and causes injury.
- A client overbalances and sustains an injury.
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Unlikely as it sounds, these are genuine incidents. In each case, claims were filed against FitPro members and payouts were made. It serves to highlight that, regardless of your professional ability or/and years of experience, accidents do happen. And, if they happen in one of your sessions, then there is a chance you will be liable for any resulting costs or damages.
Understanding liability in fitness training
While experience and professionalism reduce risks, no trainer or instructor is immune to liability. Many claims arise from simple accidents that, upon closer inspection, reveal preventable factors:
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- Proximity hazards – Why was the client close enough to the door to fall against it?
- Lack of control – If a client isn’t following directions, should the session pause for reinforcement?
- Equipment misuse – Was proper technique and safety guidance provided for the medicine ball?
- Environmental awareness – Could a loss of balance have been prevented with clearer instructions?
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Mitigating risks in your sessions
To protect your clients – and yourself – embed robust health and safety processes into every session. The next time you run a class, take a moment to assess potential risks. A little extra awareness today can prevent costly consequences tomorrow.
Consider these proactive steps:
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- Conduct regular risk assessments of your training space.
- Reinforce instructions and correct improper form immediately.
- Be aware of environmental risks, such as uneven ground or extreme weather.
- Ensure your insurance policy adequately covers potential liabilities.
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Insurance: Your safety net
While having the right insurance is crucial, it can’t protect you from reputational damage. A single incident can impact your business and client trust. Stay vigilant, prioritise safety and maintain high professional standards to prevent avoidable accidents – and watch out for an escaped medicine ball!
