If you teach yoga, insurance is the part of the job that is easy to put off. This guide covers kinds of cover that yoga teachers, studio owners and independent instructors often ask about. It is general information. Policies and legal requirements differ by place and provider, so check your situation with a licensed insurance broker.
General liability
One insurer describes general liability as protection against claims for bodily injury and property damage arising from premises and operations. If you are starting out, every fitness business has a few cover types to compare, and general liability is one to ask a broker about. It could cover a student who trips over a bolster or slips on a wet studio floor. A claim that someone was hurt from your negligence can bring legal fees and medical costs, even if the claim has no merit, and for a small studio that can mean a staggering financial shortfall. Ask what the policy covers when you teach away from your own studio.
Professional liability
Also called errors and omissions cover. One insurer describes it as covering claims alleging negligence in providing, or failing to provide, professional services such as instruction. One insurer's yoga program combines professional and general liability, so ask a broker such as fitness instructor insurance experts how group classes, private sessions and online classes are handled.
Workers' compensation
If you hire staff, workers' compensation may apply. Rules are set state by state, and the U.S. Department of Labor directs private-sector employees to their state workers' compensation board. If you work as a sole proprietor, ask your state board or broker how the rules apply to you.
Equipment
If you own mats, props or a sound system, ask a broker whether and how they can be covered.
Next step
Write down where you teach, how many people work with you and what you own. Take that to a licensed broker and compare quotes.
