Martial arts waiver template
A starter waiver template for martial arts schools covering contact training, sparring risk, instructor rules, and emergency authorization.
What a martial arts waiver template needs to cover
Martial arts training carries more inherent physical risk than most fitness activities. Sparring, grappling, striking drills, takedowns, and weapons practice all involve direct contact between participants. A martial arts waiver needs to name those risks explicitly and document that the student accepted them voluntarily before they ever step on the mat.
Why martial arts schools need a waiver
Every martial arts school (BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, karate, taekwondo, MMA, you name it) puts students in situations where injuries can happen even when everyone follows the rules. A signed waiver makes the student aware of those risks before they start training, and gives the school a documented, timestamped record of that acknowledgment.
For schools that train minors, the waiver also functions as a parental consent form. A parent or legal guardian signs on behalf of the child, confirming they understand the risks and authorize participation.
What this template includes
The template covers eight sections, starting with a description of training activities (sparring, grappling, throws, striking practice, conditioning, and equipment use). The assumption-of-risk section names specific injuries like bruises, sprains, fractures, head injuries, choking hazards, falls, and collisions.
There's a health disclosure section where the student confirms responsibility for communicating injuries or limitations. The rules and safety section ties the school's conduct expectations directly into the waiver: tapping, following instructor direction, using protective gear, and stopping when told to stop.
It also includes a liability release, an emergency medical authorization, an indemnification clause, and an optional photo and video release.
Customizing this template for your school
If your school offers programs with different risk levels (a kids' beginner class vs. an adult sparring session vs. a competitive fight team), you may want separate waivers for each, or at least separate activity descriptions. The waiver language is most useful when it closely matches what actually happens in the training session.
If you teach weapons-based arts (kali, kendo, HEMA), add language describing the specific equipment and risks involved. If you run tournaments or inter-school events, a separate event waiver may be appropriate.
Handling minors and parent signatures
Many martial arts schools train students under 18. WaiverChaser supports guardian signing, so the parent receives the waiver link, reviews the document, and signs on the child's behalf. The signed record includes the guardian's name, the minor's name, and a timestamp. Schools that train both adults and minors can use the same waiver template with guardian signing enabled as a toggle.
Not legal advice — template only. This document is a starting point and has not been reviewed by an attorney. WaiverChaser makes no representations about its legal enforceability or sufficiency. Have this reviewed and customized by a licensed attorney before use.
1. Description of Training Activities
I understand that participation may include drills, conditioning, sparring, grappling, throws, striking practice, self-defense instruction, use of mats or training equipment, and other contact or non-contact martial arts activities.
2. Assumption of Risk
I understand that martial arts training involves inherent risks, including bruises, sprains, fractures, head injuries, choking hazards, falls, collisions, and other serious injuries. I voluntarily accept and assume those risks to the extent permitted by law.
3. Physical Readiness and Health Disclosure
I represent that I am responsible for disclosing injuries, medical conditions, physical limitations, or other concerns that may affect safe participation. I understand that I should not participate in any activity that exceeds my skill, condition, or instructions given by staff.
4. Release and Waiver of Liability
In consideration of being allowed to participate, I release and hold harmless the school, its owners, instructors, staff, contractors, and affiliates from claims arising out of participation, except to the extent prohibited by law.
5. Medical Authorization
If I require medical attention during training or an event, I authorize staff to contact emergency services and share relevant information as reasonably necessary.
6. Rules, Safety Instructions, and Equipment Use
I agree to follow all safety rules, use protective gear or training equipment as instructed, and immediately stop any activity if directed by staff. I understand that failure to follow instructions may increase the risk of injury to me or others.
7. Indemnification
To the extent permitted by law, I agree to be responsible for claims or losses arising from my intentional misconduct, reckless behavior, or violation of stated rules.
8. Photo and Video Release (Optional)
I understand that the school may request permission to capture or use photographs or video from classes, demonstrations, or events for operational or promotional purposes.
Signer fields included
A good starting point if you run:
Martial arts academies and dojos
Boxing and MMA gyms
Brazilian jiu-jitsu schools
This is a starting point, not legal advice.
Every template should be reviewed and customized by a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before you publish it. WaiverChaser does not guarantee the legal enforceability of any template.