Does informed consent mean that personal trainers must protect their clients from harm?

Informed consent is a process that emphasizes the importance of communication between the personal trainer and the client. It involves making sure that clients understand the risks and benefits of their training program and that they voluntarily agree to participate based on this information.

Choosing that it is not the responsibility of personal trainers to protect their clients from harm overlooks a critical aspect of a trainer's role. While informed consent does establish a mutual understanding and acknowledgment of potential risks, personal trainers also have a professional and ethical obligation to prioritize the safety and well-being of their clients throughout the training process.

Personal trainers are expected to utilize their knowledge and skills to create safe and effective training programs, monitor clients' techniques, and adjust exercises appropriately to minimize risks. The responsibility does not cease once consent is obtained; instead, it is integrated into the ongoing relationship, ensuring that clients are safeguarded from injury during training sessions.

The alternatives each suggest a limited or distorted interpretation of the personal trainer's duty of care, which is essential in fostering a safe training environment.