Question:
Are there laws or licensing to keep me from helping others start to exercise?

I have lost 120lbs since surgery a little over a year ago. Now that I'm back to working out and playing sports I wanted to have a little part time job helping others get started in exercise. I'm not sure if in Texas there are laws governing what I can and can not do? Any info would be greatly appreciated!    — Vickie G. (posted on June 7, 2003)

June 7, 2003
Hi Vicki, I am not sure about where you are in Texas, but a few states have ordinances requiring some type of licensing. My sister-in-law is an aerobics instructor in Maine. You need to think of an even bigger issue, make sure that you have adequate insurance to cover you if someone who are supervising in an excersize program gets hurt and you get sued ie: strained a back, strains a ligament, you accidentally give bad nutritional or medical advice without a license. We are a very litigious society. Best of luck on your new adventure!
   — M B.

June 7, 2003
To find out if you need to be licensed in your state, look up your state's government website and look for "licensing". I think if it were a volunteer-only thing, like offering to use your house for some friends to exercise, you wouldn't be at much risk. However, since you are looking to offer a service (your coaching) for payment, that is considered owning a business and I would be shocked if you didn't need a license for that - and if you're doing this at home you'd probably even have to check zoning laws! The other poster pointed out the bigest concern, law suits from someone that gets hurt, or someone gets an injury from taking exercise training from someone that is not professionally trained themselves. Not trying to burst your bubble, but if you want to pursue this for money, you'll need training as a physical trainer, as well as some business stuff as well. Now if you just want to get paid to exercise, how about getting a job as an aerobics instructor at a club?
   — bethybb