One of the major legal concerns for a personal fitness trainer is potential liability. Some basic, common-sense steps can be followed to lower this risk.

The Do's

Obtain a recognized certification from a reputable organization. This should be considered the basis for your protection.

Get liability insurance. No matter how cautious your approach as a personal trainer and no matter how wonderful your relationship with your client is, a claim of personal injury, bodily injury or sexual harassment can occur at any time. Just one claim can threaten your career and place all your financial assets at risk.

Obtain and maintain current CPR certification. This is a basic requirement to not only protect yourself from additional financial or legal liability, but also to help your client in the event that a heart-related incident occurs.

Make sure you have all the proper business licenses and permits if you go into your own business. Your liability insurance may not cover you if you are found to be operating a business without the proper license.