If you own a health club, yoga studio, pilates studio, or any kind of fitness studio, you need to be aware of ways to protect your business. For instance, you may need professional liability insurance, also referred to as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. This coverage is for possible claims made against instructors and fitness businesses for a variety of reasons – a client developing lower back pain claiming it is from your classes, someone slipping and falling during a class, an instructor touching a client inappropriately. It is important to make sure that all of the “what ifs” and the “once in a lifetime” situations are covered. That is why when you come to Keslar Insurance for a quote, we make sure to discuss every coverage you should have and shop around to find those coverages at very competitive prices. We make sure to walk you through all of the policies we suggest and make sure you fully understand what you have and how you are protected from those things that are most likely to occur.
What are the insurance policies we recommend for Yoga Studios & Fitness Centers?
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)
Worker’s Compensation
General Liability
Commercial Auto
Property Insurance
Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)
Commercial Umbrella
Cyber Liability
*In addition to these policies, we also recommend Abuse & Molestation coverage. To learn more about this type of coverage, give our agency a call today.
Yoga & Fitness Studios – Insurance FAQs
1. What insurance does a yoga or fitness studio need?
Most need:
- General Liability
- Professional Liability (a.k.a. Instructor Liability)
- Commercial Property
- Workers’ Compensation
- Optional: Abuse & Molestation, Participant Accident Coverage, Cyber Liability, Business Interruption, and Employment Practices Liability (EPLI)
2. What’s the difference between General Liability and Professional Liability?
- General Liability covers injuries due to slips, falls, or accidents on your premises.
- Professional Liability covers injuries or claims related to your instruction (e.g., someone gets hurt doing a pose or movement incorrectly).
3. Do independent instructors need their own insurance?
Yes. If they’re not employees, they should carry their own Professional Liability insurance. You should collect Certificates of Insurance and consider a Booth Renter or Independent Instructor endorsement if they work under your roof.
4. Are students or members covered if they get hurt during a class?
Only if you have Participant Liability coverage or it’s included in your Professional Liability policy. Standard General Liability may not cover injuries during exercise instruction.
5. What if we offer classes outdoors or off-site?
Your policy must explicitly allow off-premises coverage. Many standard policies limit you to your primary business address unless this is added.
6. What about virtual or recorded classes?
If you livestream or record classes, your Professional Liability must cover remote instruction. This is especially important post-COVID, as liability extends beyond your physical space.
7. Does our insurance cover yoga mats, sound systems, or studio decor?
Yes—under your Commercial Property policy, as long as they’re listed properly. Don’t forget tenant improvements if you lease.
8. Do we need Workers’ Comp if we only use contractors?
Possibly. Some states classify long-term or regular contractors as employees. Even if not legally required, it may be smart to carry Workers’ Comp for protection and hiring flexibility.
9. What about claims of inappropriate touching or misconduct?
If you offer hands-on adjustments or work with vulnerable populations, you should carry Abuse & Molestation coverage. It provides legal defense and coverage for allegations—even if they’re false.
10. Do I need Cyber Liability for a fitness business?
If you store member data, credit cards, or use booking/payment apps—yes. Cyber Liability covers data breaches, phishing attacks, and fraud.
11. What if our space is forced to close temporarily?
Business Interruption insurance can help with lost income and expenses if your studio shuts down due to a covered property loss (like fire or water damage).
12. How can we reduce insurance costs?
- Screen and certify instructors
- Maintain signed waivers and safety protocols
- Bundle coverages through a studio-specific program
- Work with an agent who understands fitness industry nuances
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