Liability Waiver and Release Agreement

This Waiver applies to:

  • A Fine Balance Limited (company no. 11224414), registered at 173 St Mary’s Lane, Upminster (the "Studio").

  • Hannah Horne, operating as A Fine Balance Yoga, a freelance instructor providing private yoga and related services across the UK and under A Fine Balance Limited (the "Instructor").

The term “Services” refers to yoga, Pilates, fitness sessions, sound baths, workshops, and other related activities conducted by A Fine Balance Limited, the Studio, or the Instructor, whether in the studio, online, or at any other location.

1. Acknowledgment of Risks and Assumption of Responsibility

By participating in the Services, I acknowledge the inherent risks involved in physical activities, including but not limited to:

  • Muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, and joint injuries

  • Stress or anxiety

  • Other unforeseen risks or accidents

If I am pregnant, I am not permitted to attend any A Fine Balance sessions during my first trimester, including yoga, Pilates, fitness sessions, or sound baths. After 13 weeks, I confirm that I have consulted with my healthcare provider and acknowledge that I participate at my own risk. I am advised to attend pregnancy-specific classes unless I have been regularly practicing yoga prior to pregnancy. I must inform the instructor about my pregnancy, and it is at their discretion whether I can attend the session. Postnatal participants must also have medical clearance before attending. See sections 4 and 5 below for full terms on pregnancy and postpartum.

I understand that participation may involve physical exertion, and I am responsible for maintaining my own physical condition. If I have any concerns about my fitness, I confirm that I have consulted with a healthcare professional. I accept full responsibility for my actions during the Services, whether in person or online, and acknowledge that I voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation, including those related to pregnancy, postnatal recovery, or pre-existing conditions (e.g., high/low blood pressure, cardiac issues).

I confirm that I am in good physical condition and do not have any condition that would limit my participation. If I have any medical issues, I understand that it is my responsibility to inform the Instructor or Studio in advance. The Studio reserves the right to refuse participation based on concerns regarding my health.

2. Release and Waiver of Liability

I hereby release A Fine Balance Limited, its employees, representatives, and the Instructor from any claims or actions arising from injuries, damages, or losses that may result from my participation in the Services, including but not limited to:

  • Personal injury, illness, or death

  • Property damage or loss

  • Emotional distress

I understand that participation in the Services is at my own risk, and I waive any claims against the Studio or Instructor for any resulting injury or harm.

3. Contraindications for Participation

Participation in the Services is not suitable for individuals with the following conditions unless they have received explicit medical clearance (and not limited to this list; it is my responsibility to check whether it is safe to participate):

  • Pregnancy (first trimester)

  • High-risk pregnancy conditions (e.g., placenta previa, preeclampsia, gestational hypertension)

  • Recent surgeries or injuries, including spinal or musculoskeletal issues

  • Uncontrolled hypertension or cardiovascular conditions

  • Severe osteoporosis

  • Glaucoma or retinal conditions

  • Mental health conditions (e.g., severe panic disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia)

  • Pacemakers or implanted medical devices (due to possible interference from sound baths)

  • Epilepsy or seizure disorders

  • Early postnatal period without doctor’s sign-off to participate in exercise

I understand it is my responsibility to disclose any relevant health conditions to the Instructor before participating. A Fine Balance reserves the right to refuse participation based on safety concerns.

4. Special Terms for Pregnant Participants

I may not attend any A Fine Balance class, workshop, or event during the first trimester (up to 12 weeks). After 13 weeks, I may only attend with explicit medical clearance, and I am advised to attend pregnancy-specific classes unless I have been a regular yoga practitioner prior to pregnancy. It is my responsibility to inform the Instructor of my pregnancy and seek medical advice before participating. The Instructor reserves the right to refuse participation at any time. I participate at my own risk and acknowledge that A Fine Balance is not liable for any injury or harm.

If I am pregnant, I acknowledge the following:

  • I may not attend any A Fine Balance sessions (including yoga, Pilates, fitness, or sound baths) during the first trimester.

  • I may only attend sessions from the second trimester (13 weeks onwards) with medical clearance from my healthcare provider.

  • I will inform the Instructor of my pregnancy before attending any session.

  • I participate at my own risk, and A Fine Balance is not liable for any injury or harm during pregnancy.

5. Special Terms for Postnatal Participants

I confirm that I have received medical clearance from my healthcare provider to resume physical activity postnatally. I understand that it is common to wait 6-8 weeks postpartum before engaging in physical activities, and this must be agreed upon with my doctor. I will inform the Instructor of any specific postnatal conditions (e.g., pelvic floor issues, diastasis recti, cesarean recovery) and acknowledge that I participate at my own risk.

For mum and baby classes, I am responsible for the safety and supervision of my child. I will listen to my body, recognizing that postnatal recovery is gradual, and acknowledge that I participate at my own risk.

6. Sound and Gong Baths Contraindications

By participating in a sound or gong bath session at A Fine Balance, I acknowledge that I am fully responsible for my own health and safety during the session. If I have any of the following conditions, I strongly advise against attending the session without first consulting a healthcare provider:

  • Pregnancy (first trimester)

  • Epilepsy or any seizure disorders

  • Severe mental health conditions or psychiatric disorders

  • Recent head injuries or concussions

  • Heart conditions (unless approved by a doctor)

  • Severe hearing impairment or sensitivity to sound waves

  • Any other medical condition that could be aggravated by sound vibrations

It is my responsibility to inform the teacher of any relevant health concerns prior to attending the session. Sound and gong baths involve exposure to intense sound vibrations, and while these sessions are generally safe for most people, they may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions.

By attending the session, I acknowledge that I am participating at my own risk and agree that A Fine Balance and its staff are not liable for any injury, discomfort, or harm that may result from my participation in the sound or gong bath. It is advised that I listen to my body during the session and stop immediately if I feel any discomfort.

7. Booking for Minors or Others

For minors under 18 or when booking for others, I acknowledge that:

  • Parental/guardian consent is required for minors over 13 (specific classes may have age restrictions).

  • As a parent or guardian, I am responsible for my child’s ability to participate safely.

  • When booking for another individual, I confirm both parties agree to this waiver and the Studio’s terms.

8. COVID-19 and Infectious Disease Acknowledgment

I acknowledge that attending Services may expose me to COVID-19 or other infectious diseases. While the Studio has implemented health and safety measures, it cannot guarantee a virus-free environment. I assume all risks related to exposure and agree not to hold the Studio, Instructor, or any representative responsible for any illness contracted through participation.

9. Right to Refuse Services

A Fine Balance reserves the right to refuse participation in any Service at its discretion, particularly if the participant’s health or safety is a concern. The Studio also reserves the right to suspend or terminate any participant's membership or access at any time without notice for reasons deemed necessary.

10. General Provisions

This Waiver represents the entire agreement between the parties regarding the subject matter and supersedes any prior agreements or understandings.

This Waiver is governed by and construed in accordance with English law.

If any provision of this Waiver is deemed unenforceable, the remainder of the Waiver will remain in full force and effect.

Acknowledgment and Agreement

This waiver applies to all classes, workshops, and events organized by A Fine Balance Limited, its owners, instructors, employees, and representatives, as well as Hannah Horne, whether held at the Studio, online, or at off-site locations.

By participating in any Services, I agree to the terms of this Liability Waiver and Release Agreement. I understand that by agreeing to this, I waive certain legal rights, including the right to sue.

By attending, booking, or participating in any service provided by A Fine Balance Limited and/or A Fine Balance Yoga, its instructors, and at any location, I confirm that I have read, understood, and voluntarily agree to the terms outlined above. I acknowledge that I am responsible for my participation and health during the Services, and that any participation is at my own risk.