You’re coaching athletes through another challenging WOD — business as usual. But unexpectedly, one of your members loses balance during a box jump and lands with a resulting Achilles tendon rupture. In a moment like this, a signed CrossFit waiver form can make or break your business.
Just like you ensure proper warm-ups and safe fitness techniques, having a waiver system in place is essential to safeguarding your CrossFit sessions.
What Is a CrossFit Waiver?
A CrossFit waiver is a legal document designed to protect CrossFit trainers and coaches from the risks associated with their fitness style and business operations.
Essentially, when an athlete signs a waiver, they acknowledge that there’s a chance they can get hurt (or face other issues) during a workout, but they agree to participate with this knowledge and not hold you liable if things go wrong.
Of course, you’re a CrossFit pro who maintains a safe environment and keeps a watchful eye on your box, but accidents happen. A waiver is an extra layer of protection that’s easy and effective — like a spotter for your business.
Get Your FREE CrossFit Liability Waiver Template
Looking for a CrossFit waiver template? We’ve got you covered. Download your free CrossFit waiver PDF and customize it according to your business needs.
This waiver has been reviewed by our compliance team and includes the essential elements, such as release of claims, acknowledgment of good health, and consent to necessary medical treatment.
Get Your Free CrossFit Liability Waiver
Be sure to have a legal professional review your liability waiver to ensure it’s written to your specific requirements.
What Does a CrossFit Waiver Form Cover?
A CrossFit waiver form typically covers:
- Assumption of risk: The participant agrees to accept the risks (such as injury or property damage) involved in CrossFit workouts.
- Release of liability: The participant agrees not to hold you liable (they won’t sue you) for any claims arising from the outlined risks.
- Confirmation of good health: The participant confirms they’re healthy enough to participate in a CrossFit workout.
- Medical authorization: The participant gives you the OK to seek medical attention if needed on their behalf.
- Consent to participation: The participant agrees to the conditions and consents to take part in the activity.
What Does It Not Cover?
A CrossFit waiver can help protect you from litigation, but it does have limitations.
Here are some things it won’t cover:
- Gross negligence (reckless disregard for safety)
- Intentional harm of an athlete
- Unenforceable clauses as determined by a court of law
- Non-CrossFit-related incidents
- Injuries to non-participants
It’s important to note that a waiver is limited by the language it’s written in. You won’t be able to outline every instance of risk your box faces, which is why you should not skip getting a lawyer’s eyes on your waiver to ensure it’s written as specifically as possible.
In addition to implementing a waiver, you can also reduce your chances of facing a lawsuit by carrying insurance, keeping your certifications updated, and conducting fitness assessments when onboarding new clients.
Who Needs to Use a CrossFit Waiver?
These waivers are designed to protect:
- CrossFit trainers (whatever your certification level!)
- Independent CrossFit coaches
- Online CrossFit coaches
- Mobile CrossFit coaches
Do I Need Insurance in Addition to a Waiver?
Yes, you absolutely need insurance in addition to a waiver. Your waiver form offers you blanket protection against common risks, but liability insurance can help catch any other mishaps that slip through the cracks of your waiver’s coverage.
From athletes getting injured by weights to damaging your rented space to claiming they’re not getting “fit enough” under your training, CrossFit liability insurance can keep you from paying big money or putting your entire business on hold.
For just $15/month, you can get excellent-rated coverage that keeps up with you. Go all in with a safety net superset: liability insurance and liability waivers.
JoAnne Hammer | Program Manager
JoAnne Hammer is the Program Manager for Insurance Canopy. She has held the prestigious Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation since July 2004.
JoAnne understands that starting and operating a business takes a tremendous amount of time, dedication, and financial resources. She believes that insurance is the single best way to protect your investment, business, and personal assets.
JoAnne Hammer is the Program Manager for Insurance Canopy. She has held the prestigious Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation since July 2004.
JoAnne understands that starting and operating a business takes a tremendous amount of time, dedication, and financial resources. She believes that insurance is the single best way to protect your investment, business, and personal assets.
