The start of a new year is the perfect time to ensure your gym’s legal foundation is rock-solid. Taking a proactive approach to your legal documents can save you from surprises, disputes, or even costly lawsuits in the months ahead. Here are the three key legal documents every gym owner should review before 2025 begins:
1. Membership Agreements
Your membership agreement sets the tone for your relationship with clients and protects your business. Take the time before the new year to review this critical document for updates, including:
- Cancellation Policies: Are they clear and compliant with state laws?
- Payment Terms: Do they include clauses for late fees, refunds, or price increases?
- New Services: If you’ve added any programs or offerings, ensure they’re included.
Updating your membership agreement ensures that you and your members are on the same page, reducing potential disputes and strengthening your gym’s operations.
2. Liability Waivers
A liability waiver is your first line of defense against lawsuits stemming from injuries or accidents. However, you may be exposed to unnecessary risks if your waiver doesn’t reflect your current offerings. Key points to review:
- New Risks: Does your waiver address risks tied to any new services, equipment, or events you’ve added this year?
- State-Specific Requirements: Are there specific clauses required by your state to make the waiver enforceable?
- Separate and Distinct Waivers: Specialty stand-alone services (like Cold Plunge/Sauna, Nutrition, or competitions) often require their own tailored waivers.
Remember, liability waivers should be separate documents from your membership agreement for maximum legal effectiveness.
3. Staff Agreements
Your team is essential to your gym’s success, but employment laws are complex and ever-changing. Review your staff agreements—whether they’re for W-2 employees or 1099 contractors—for updates like:
- Roles and Responsibilities: Are job descriptions accurate and up to date?
- Classification Compliance: You need to ensure that your staff are correctly classified to avoid tax and labor violations.
- Confidentiality and Non-Solicitation Clauses: Protect your business by ensuring these provisions are properly outlined and enforceable.
When you properly maintained staff agreements you help avoid misunderstandings, build trust with your team, and stay compliant with labor laws.
Why Reviewing These Documents Matters
Starting the year with updated legal documents isn’t just about avoiding trouble—it’s about you creating a strong, professional foundation for your business. Moreover, you step into the new year with confidence, knowing your gym is protected and ready to grow, by reviewing these key agreements now.
Need Help Reviewing Your Legal Documents?
At Gym Lawyers PLLC, we specialize in helping gym owners like you stay protected and compliant. If you’re unsure about the strength of your legal documents, we’re here to help! Schedule a consultation today and start 2025 with peace of mind.
