ACTION CPT ch10

Question 1

Define “duty of care”.

Answer 1

Duty of care: the responsibility a personal trainer has to protect their clients from harm, due to the service-oriented client relationship.

**Clients have a right to a safe environment whether the trainer is working for a fitness facility or on their own. As a personal trainer, it is your duty to ensure the client’s safety through every means possible – hazards must be taken care of or proper warning must be given, do not allow clients to work out with faulty equipment, and make routine checks of all equipment and exercise areas prior to a training session.

Question 2

List and define the different business types available to personal trainers.

Answer 2

Independent Contractor – a personal trainer who is paid by health clubs in exchange for personal training services
Sole Proprietorship – Business owned by one person & the operating license is obtained from the state/local city in which the business is located
Partnership – Business owned by two or more people – informally or by contract
Corporation – Formal business ruled by a contract & bylaws; separate from owners & managers
S Corporation – Corporation treated as a proprietorship or partnership
LLC – Hybrid of corporation & proprietorship; most common form for small business

Question 3

Name at least 5 ways in which you can manage your legal risk as a personal trainer.

Answer 3

Risk management means the avoidance of liability in the event that something goes wrong. There are certain steps a personal trainer can take to reduce their chances of liability. 
Risk can be managed through:
Receiving the proper education
Appropriate training for each client
Limiting liability through avoidance, retention, reduction, and transfer
Proper conduct
Providing a proper training area
Documentation – detailed and thorough

Question 4

What are the 7 most common legal claims made against personal trainers?

Answer 4

7 Most Common Legal Claims:
Slip and Fall
Equipment Usage
Supplements
Sexual Harassment
Proper Qualifications
Emergency Response
Client Confidentiality

Question 5

What does the acronym READ stand for with regards to customer service?

Answer 5

READ:
R – Rapport
Confidence, enthusiasm, and professionalism are essential to forming a good rapport with clients.
E – Empathy
For empathy, try to understand the thought process behind actions.
A – Assessment
Ask the client questions, and paraphrase what the client has said to verify your understanding.
D – Development
Develop individualized programs by taking into account the client’s needs and goals.