Fitness instructors play an integral role in health club operations. The effectiveness of this employee base is directly correlated to the success of the gym. They not only have the potential to drive a large percentage of the profit center via personal training but also serve as the “ambassadors of health” responsible for dispensing health advice to members as well as being part of the front line of customer service team. However, with this responsible also comes risk.

The number one responsibility of the hotel fitness center is to provide guests with a safe workout environment. This safety can be compromised when the training staff acts in a way that increases the risk of liability. Trainer negligence can stem from a number of different instances all resulting in the injury of the client. Harm caused by unhealthy supplement recommendations, improper instruction on exercise technique, and oversight of contraindications may all result in litigation against the fitness center.

Although health clubs cannot completely protect themselves from personal trainer negligence they can drastically decrease their exposure by hiring qualified personal trainers. Unfortunately the term “qualified” is highly subjective within the fitness industry. Since personal training is neither ...