I plan to hold my own classes. Would I give each and every participant paperwork to fill out at the time of the class?

Collete, if it is possible, see if you can collect email address and email the form to the participants in anticipation of the class. If they have access to a computer and and printer they can print out the form and give it to you when they arrive the class.

I wish you the very best.

I have all new people fill out a very complete release form, liability form and PAR Q on the first class. I also like to talk to anyone who may have "issues" prior to class so it's important to read the forms and ask questions.
Make sure everyone is aware of safety and what they are signing!

Hi Colette. Whenever I conduct a group training or clinic, I always have all of the participants complete all of their paperwork ahead of time so that I have all of the signed and completed papers and can review them days before the clinic. This way, if there's a problem (for example, someone's PAR-Q indicates that they need a physician's approval) you can deal with and correct those issues in private with the particular person involved. By doing it ahead of time, you also avoid interrupting the flow of your class by having people sitting around and doing paperwork (nothing can kill the mood and excitement of the class quicker than that!).

Good luck with your class.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com

Hi Colette, for me it depends on the type of group class I'm running. My small group personal training and bootcamps, complete all their paperwork ahead of time. I then go over it all with them, paying attention to company policies, health and nutrition/exercise history, noting any prior injuries or disease diagnosis, etc. I have them complete all this paperwork again for each bootcamp or once a year for those who continue with small group personal training. This allows us to review any changes (emergency contacts, new medical conditions, etc).

For my mommy and me classes which are conducted regularly and anyone is welcome to attend, I have everyone complete a liability waiver, modified policy form, modified health history and emergency contact sheet. I show up 15minutes prior to class to have new participants complete their paperwork. I have all participants complete the paperwork each year as things may change. If there are any questions, I have all their forms filed alphabetically and can pull them up at a moments notice.

Good luck with your class!
Jocelyn