Insurance for yoga teachers is an important consideration. This article will highlight some of the main concerns for instructors and possible plan options for U.S.-based teachers.
Insurance for Yoga Teachers
Yoga teachers might need a liability insurance policy for the protection of their students and of themselves. Proper training and clear instruction to prevent injury are the best tools to maintain everyone's safety, but accidents do happen. Students might hurt themselves extending too far into a pose; slip and fall; or suffer knee, back, or wrist pain. If a student considers an instructor liable in some way, both parties will receive fair protection under an active insurance policy.
Some yoga studios, spas, fitness centers, and health clubs have an umbrella insurance policy that covers both instructors and attendees. Owners of these facilities may provide insurance coverage at no cost to teachers, outlining in the fee split basic requirements provided by the owner, such as insurance, towel service, equipment maintenance, and so on. Other facilities may demand that teachers show proof of an individual policy and waive all responsibility. Most experts recommend you have an individual policy, however, regardless of potential coverage at the location you plan to teach.
If you plan on teaching outside of a larger facility, you'll definitely need an individual liability policy and request that all students sign waivers. The waivers can either remain in effect for the duration of attendance or be reviewed annually.
Companies with Yoga Insurance Polices
The popularity of yoga and alternative medicine makes finding insurance for yoga teachers a lot easier than it was in the past. Make sure to do thorough research of each company and potential polices so that you'll have peace of mind regarding your final selection.
Most yoga policies fall under a fitness and wellness liability structure and should cover you wherever you teach. The underwriters assume yoga is your primary practice. If you have an additional discipline, such as yoga therapy, Pilates, or massage, you may need additional policies. You may also have to consider property insurance coverage, or list your facility landlord on your policy.
Examples of companies providing yoga insurance include:
- Alternative Balance: This professional association covers a wide range of alternative wellness professionals, from yoga instructors and massage therapists to bodyworkers and aestheticians. You can add to your base liability coverage with disability, property protection, and other options.
- NAMASTA: NAMASTA stands for the North America Studio Alliance, but it also caters to yoga instructors. You can choose a professional liability plan and become a member of the association for additional benefits.
- Philadelphia Insurance Fitness and Wellness: Specializing in coverage for all types of wellness professionals, Philadelphia Insurance handles all styles of yoga. The company also has a special events policy, as well as options for limited international coverage.
Additional Information
Since many companies offer quite a range of liability coverage, it's hard to generalize the cost of any insurance plan. But, if you're trying to establish a baseline, consider $200 per year for a basic plan to be a starting point.
This article did not cover specific health insurance for yoga teachers, mainly because most people choose to go with established health policies. A number of professional yoga organizations used to offer a group health coverage discount to their members, but those options are limited now. Two possibilities are Sports and Fitness Insurance Corporation and NAMASTA, both noted above.
