If you own and/or are running a gym, fitness center, or health club, protecting your business from potential liability is extremely important. Every time a member steps onto your gym floor—whether they're lifting weights, using cardio equipment, or attending a group fitness class—there's an inherent risk of injury which could cost you bigtime if you aren't protected. From minor strains to more serious accidents involving gym equipment, these incidents can expose your business to costly lawsuits if you don't have proper legal protections in place.
That's why every gym needs a comprehensive liability waiver that clearly outlines the risks associated with physical exercise and protects your business from frivolous claims. A well-drafted gym waiver (also called a fitness liability waiver or gym membership waiver) is your first line of defense against potential legal issues. It ensures that members acknowledge the inherent risks of physical activity before they start using your facility or equipment.
However, creating an effective gym waiver from scratch can be expensive and time-consuming, sometimes costing thousands. That's why we've partnered with our legal team to create a free, attorney-reviewed gym waiver template that you can customize for your fitness facility.
This comprehensive waiver template covers:
Whether you operate a small boutique gym, a large commercial fitness center, a 24-hour access facility, or a specialized strength training gym, this free template provides the legal foundation you need. Download it today and ensure every member signs it before their first workout—it could save your business thousands in legal fees and protect you from devastating liability claims.
This Agreement is between [Participant Name] ('Participant') and [Gym Name, LLC], including its owners, trainers, employees, contractors, and agents (‘Released Parties’).
1. Acknowledgment of Risks
I understand that gym activities-including but not limited to use of free weights, machines, cardiovascular equipment, group exercise classes, personal training sessions, and related programs-carry inherent risks. These risks include muscle strains, joint injuries, slips and falls, cardiovascular events, equipment malfunction, and serious injury or death.
2. Voluntary Participation & Health
I represent that I am voluntarily participating, and I am physically fit to do so. I understand it is my responsibility to consult a physician before engaging in the Activities.
3. Assumption of Risk
I knowingly assume all risks associated with gym activities including use of free weights, machines, cardiovascular equipment, group exercise classes, personal training sessions, and related programs, whether arising from negligence, facility conditions, or other causes.
4. Release of Liability
I release the Released Parties from any and all claims for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death related to participation in Activities, except for gross negligence or willful misconduct.
5. Indemnification
I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Released Parties against any claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including attorneys’ fees) that may result from my participation.
6. Medical Treatment
I consent to receive first aid and/or medical treatment deemed advisable in the event of an injury, accident, or illness during participation. I release and hold harmless the Released Parties for any costs or liability related to such treatment.
7. Photography & Media Release
I grant permission to the Business to use my likeness in photographs, videos, or other media taken during the Activities for promotional purposes, without compensation.
8. Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
9. Governing Law & Venue
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [State], and any disputes shall be resolved exclusively in the state or federal courts located in [County, State].
10. Arbitration Agreement
I agree that any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or related to this Agreement or my participation in the Activities shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association in accordance with its Consumer Arbitration Rules. The arbitration shall take place in [City, State] before a single arbitrator. I understand that by agreeing to arbitration, I am waiving my right to a jury trial or to participate in a class action.
11. Acknowledgment of Understanding
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read this Agreement, fully understand its terms, and sign it freely and voluntarily. I understand that I am giving up substantial legal rights, including the right to sue.
Participant Information
Name: ______________________________
Address: ____________________________
Phone: ______________________________
Email: ______________________________
Signature of Participant: ________________________ Date: ___________
If Participant is under 18:
Parent/Guardian Name: ___________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ______________________ Date: ___________
Want to see how Zipper's system can integrate your waiver into your member management system, saving energy and time? Get a demo.