When someone is obsessed with fitness, they are more likely to get injured through overzealous workout behavior. Some workout injuries are very expensive and difficult to treat. If customers get injured at a commercial gym, they may sue for damages. Thankfully, gym owners and trainers can protect themselves by applying for fitness insurance. Whether you own a popular gym or are an independent instructor, purchasing liability insurance can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
- History
From the 1970's through the 1980's, commercial gyms started to become very popular. Health spas and clubs were opening throughout the country, but insurance companies regarded gyms as speculative ventures and did not offer insurance. The first fitness insuring company began in 1985 and the industry has continued to grow since.
- Functions
Large gym franchises usually have some form of fitness insurance to cover their equipment and employees. Some insurance deals are designed for large gyms, while others are better suited for small studio owners and independent trainers. Some companies will also allow trainers to apply for accidental insurance to pay their medical bills if they have an accident while at the gym.
- Application
Both individual corporations and personal trainers can apply for fitness insurance. Many insuring companies have a significant online presence, allowing customers to apply from their computer. It will usually take a few days for the company to review your documents. Depending on your insurance proof, they may ask for a face-to-face meeting or a tour of your gym facilities.
- Cost
Several factors determine the cost of fitness insurance. Selling supplements without a nutritionist license will cause insurance price to increase. Having homemade or unverified fitness equipment can also cause the cost to go up. Regardless of the price however, purchasing insurance is essential to starting a fitness business.
- Benefits
Instructors at public gyms must be properly certified to train other people. Despite this, accidents can still happen. A recent report cited that 14,713 head injuries occurred in gyms during 2008. Even seemingly harmless exercises like aerobic dance caused an average of 11 injuries for every 1000 hours of participation. Some of these accidents are the result of personal workout behavior, while others are due to faulty equipment or poor instructors. However, a skilled lawyer could still convince the jury of the facilities liability, even if it is not the instructors fault. This is why fitness insurance is so important.
- Considerations
