Informed consent

Informed consent is the documented process of explaining a training program’s purpose, risks and benefits before a client agrees to participate.^{1Schoenfeld and Snarr (eds.), NSCA’s Essentials of Personal Training, 3rd ed., p. 156.} ACSM places it before collection of personal information, fitness testing or exercise.^{2Ozemek et al., ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th ed., p. 126.} The NSCA lists a detailed program description, risks and benefits, confidentiality, client responsibilities, and documented acceptance among its essential elements.^{1Schoenfeld and Snarr (eds.), NSCA’s Essentials of Personal Training, 3rd ed., p. 156.}

A waiver, or assumption of risk agreement, is a different document: it asks the client to give up the right to legal remedy if injured.^{1Schoenfeld and Snarr (eds.), NSCA’s Essentials of Personal Training, 3rd ed., p. 156.} A signed waiver doesn’t remove the trainer’s duty to act competently and professionally.^{3Schoenfeld and Snarr (eds.), NSCA’s Essentials of Personal Training, 3rd ed., p. 157.}

In practice

• Explain the form aloud as well as in writing, and allow questions; ACSM suggests recording the client’s questions and your answers on the form.^{2Ozemek et al., ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th ed., p. 126.}
• State that the client can withdraw at any time.^{2Ozemek et al., ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th ed., p. 126.}
• Keep the signed form and give the client a copy.^{4International Personal Trainer Academy, Certified Personal Trainer Textbook, p. 120.}
• The NSCA manual treats informed consent as a contract that only adults can sign: a minor’s parent or guardian agrees, and the young client gives assent.^{5National Strength and Conditioning Association, NSCA’s Basics of Strength and Conditioning Manual, p. 95.}
• Have a lawyer who knows your state’s law review your documents.^{6National Strength and Conditioning Association, Strength and Conditioning Professional Standards and Guidelines, p. 21.}