Running a gym is more than just keeping your clients fit—it’s about ensuring your business is built on a solid foundation that protects you from the unexpected. That’s exactly what one of our clients realized when they came to us with a growing business and a stack of outdated documents.
They had the equipment, the passion, and the community, but what they didn’t realize was that their legal documents—membership agreements, liability waivers, and employment contracts—were out of sync with their growing business. And that could have been a disaster.
Here’s how we helped them protect their gym’s future with a comprehensive document review.
The Challenge: Old Contracts, New Services
Our client had been running a successful CrossFit affiliate for years, but as the gym evolved—adding new trainers, launching online training, and expanding class offerings—something crucial had been left behind: their legal paperwork.
The gym was still relying on contracts and waivers drafted years ago, long before they added services like virtual coaching and new class formats. Even their employee agreements hadn’t been touched since they hired their first trainer.
The problem? Those old documents didn’t reflect the gym’s current operations, which left them vulnerable to potential legal disputes, contract misunderstandings, and liability claims. It was a ticking time bomb.
Our Solution: A Tailored Document Review
We dove in with a full-scale document review, and here’s what we found:
- Membership Agreements: These contracts were missing key updates like cancellation policies, payment terms for new services, and online class offerings. We restructured the agreements to ensure everything was clear, protecting the gym from member disputes and laying out expectations from the start.
- Liability Waivers: Our client’s waivers didn’t cover newer services like online coaching or outdoor group workouts, meaning the gym wasn’t fully protected if someone got injured during these sessions. We revised the waivers to cover all activities and made sure the language was up to date with current legal standards.
- Employee Contracts: With more trainers on board, the gym needed to formalize expectations for their staff. We updated the contracts to include clear job responsibilities, pay structures, and non-solicitation agreements to protect the gym from losing trainers—and clients—to competitors.
The Result: Peace of Mind and a Protected Business
By the time we finished, our client’s gym was operating with airtight legal documents that matched the growth and scope of their business. The gym owner no longer had to worry about potential legal pitfalls—they had clear, updated agreements that provided protection for both the business and its members.
And the best part? With their legal foundation strong, the gym owner could focus on what they love: helping their clients get fit, while knowing their business is legally secure.
Why Every Gym Needs a Document Review
As gym owners, you’re constantly evolving—whether it’s adding new services, bringing in fresh talent, or expanding your reach online. But if your legal documents aren’t keeping up with your business growth, you’re leaving yourself open to risk.
Here’s why every gym should make document reviews a priority:
- Protect against liability: Updated waivers protect you from lawsuits by clearly outlining the risks and responsibilities.
- Avoid disputes: Strong, clear contracts with members prevent misunderstandings about cancellations, payments, and service terms.
- Stay compliant: Employment laws and data privacy regulations change—your employee agreements need to reflect that.
Is Your Gym Protected? Let’s Find Out!
If you haven’t reviewed your documents in a while, now’s the time. At Gym Lawyers PLLC, we specialize in protecting gym owners by ensuring their legal documents are as strong as their business. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s make sure your gym is set up for success!
