The obesity rate among American children was an average of 19.3% pre-pandemic and is now reported at 22% in children and adolescents. The BMI of the average American child between 5 and 11 has doubled since the pandemic. There’s no doubt that the disbanding of physical education in our public schools and the lack of safe, affordable support systems for parents are not able to counteract the sedentary lifestyle of our television watching, and internet surfing kids.
Who better than club owners to champion the cause of providing youth with the tools they need to build an active lifestyle? We have the equipment, trainers and group exercise necessary to help build a healthier, happier generation. Can we see a potential for additional revenue?
The Challenges
We recognize the opportunity, but the reality is very few clubs can address the needs of our youth. The club needs the space and the right trainer to accommodate a youth specific program.
Some owners have made the decision to allow minors to use their facility when accompanied by a parent and some without supervision.
The Risks
This decision appears to be an approach designed to increase revenue and fill a need. However, the reality is that minors using your facility unsupervised are unlikely to achieve results and can create increased liability for the club.
What is the age limit? How did you decide on that age limit? How many kids per parent? How do the your members feel about minors in the club? What are the ramifications?
What If Minors Sign A Waiver?
Minors in your club can increase your liability exposure. A minor — under age 18 — cannot sign a waiver. Even if the parent signs a waiver, the child has their own rights and can sue once they become an adult. If a child is injured in your club, the insurance company will end up writing a check. The club owner may also end up writing a check for punitive damages when the court decides that the club owner’s decision to allow a 12 year old to work out on a hack squat machine with no supervision was grossly negligent. Punitive damages are not covered by your general liability insurance.
Safely Allow Minors Memberships
The safest solution is to offer specific, facilitated programming. One of the best programs I have seen is Parisi Speed School. Parisi provides a safe environment for kids to learn healthy habits, proper form, and results. The best part? Increased revenue.
What Do Your Members Want?
The insurance industry, for the most part, has no problem with clubs offering programs for minors. Your members may have a problem with minors roaming freely in the club. The key is to ask for the feedback you need to make an informed decision.
So, let’s do the right thing. Get these kids into the gym and create an environment that will guarantee results for the child and the club.
