Shields v. Sta-Fit, Inc.

Sweeney, A.C.J.

Generally exculpatory clauses are valid unless they violate a public policy interest of this state. As a condition of joining Sta-Fit Club East, Paul Shields was required to release Sta-Fit and its em ployees from any negligence or fault. He was injured when a Sta-Fit employee, a trainer, instructed him to remove his support belt while performing squats. He had paid an extra $10-per-hour fee to the trainer for advice and instruction. We are asked to decide whether public policy considerations should preclude enforcement of the hold harmless agreement. Applying the rationale…