Yoga Class Disclaimer – Practical Checklist
A clear disclaimer helps set expectations, supports student responsibility, and reflects professional practice. This guide outlines what to include and what to consider when creating or reviewing yours.
When to use this checklist
- Are creating or updating your class disclaimer
- Teach in-person, online, or in multiple settings
- Collect health or personal information from students
- Offer workshops, courses, or additional services (e.g. equipment, products)
- Want to strengthen your professional standards and risk awareness
You can revisit this resource whenever your teaching evolves or your setup changes.
Use this checklist to create or review your disclaimer. While not every element is required, many are considered best practice and help support safe, professional teaching.
Core Disclaimer (Essential)
Ensure your disclaimer clearly states:
☐ Participation involves physical activity and risk of injury
☐ Students take part at their own risk
☐ Students are responsible for working within their own limits
☐ Students are encouraged to listen to their body and stop if needed
☐ Students should consult a medical professional if they have concerns
☐ Students are asked to inform the teacher of relevant health conditions
Legal Awareness (Important to Understand)
☐ You cannot exclude liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence
☐ Disclaimers do not override your duty of care
☐ Disclaimers may have limited legal effect depending on the situation
☐ Wording such as “participate at your own risk” can help, but is not a full legal safeguard
☐ Safeguarding note (if working with vulnerable adults or minors)
☐ Data protection reference if collecting health info, sample text:
Any personal or health information you provide will be used solely to support your safe participation in classes, stored securely, and handled in accordance with applicable data protection legislation. It will not be shared with third parties without your consent unless required by law.
Health & Medical Information
☐ Students confirm they have declared any relevant medical conditions
☐ Students agree to update you if their health status changes (e.g. injury, pregnancy)
☐ Encourage students to seek medical advice if unsure about participation
☐ Emergency contact / incident protocol (even briefly referenced)
Adjustments & Physical Contact (if applicable)
☐ Clarify whether hands-on adjustments may be used
☐ Obtain clear consent (e.g. verbal, written, or permission cards)
☐ Provide a clear option to opt out of adjustments
Best Practice (Operational)
☐ Present disclaimer clearly and accessibly☐ Share at key points: registration, confirmation email, and/or before class
☐ Keep a record of agreement (especially for higher-risk sessions)
☐ Review and update regularly as your teaching evolves
☐ Late arrival / refusal of participation (if someone appears unfit to practise)
Here are some additional points to consider, depending on how and where you teach.
Online / Virtual Classes
☐ Disclaimer is visible before participation (e.g. booking page, email, screen prompt)
☐ Students acknowledge responsibility for their own space and environment
☐ Clarify that you cannot assess them physically in the same way as in-person classes
Equipment & Environment
☐ If providing equipment, state that use is at the participant’s own risk
☐ Remind students to ensure equipment is suitable and safe
☐ Note: this does not remove liability for faulty or poorly maintained equipment
Products / Tangible Goods (if applicable)
☐ Outline any risks associated with products sold or recommended
☐ Include returns/refunds policy (e.g. time limits, faulty goods)
☐ Clarify that the risk list is not exhaustive
Content, Handouts & Teaching Materials
☐ State that materials reflect your professional knowledge and personal approach
☐ Include a disclaimer for errors or omissions
☐ Clarify that materials are not a substitute for medical advice
Courses, Workshops & Training (if applicable)
☐ State that information is accurate at time of publication
☐ Reserve the right to amend or withdraw course content if necessary
Final Note
A disclaimer is a supporting tool, not a substitute for good practice. Your strongest protection always comes from:
- Safe, appropriate teaching
- Clear communication
- Professional judgement
For tailored advice, consult your legal adviser.
This guidance is for general awareness and professional orientation. It is not a substitute for professional legal, tax, or insurance advice specific to your individual situation.