I was teaching an Acro workshop. A flyer fell from “Star” pose onto her head. Broken neck. My standard Yoga Alliance policy denied the claim, pointing to the “Stunting/Gymnastics Exclusion.”
Key Takeaways
- Acro is not Yoga (to insurers): It involves stacking humans. Insurers view this as “Acrobatics” or “Cheerleading Stunting.”
- Height Exclusion: Policies often exclude activities “more than 30 inches off the ground.”
- Aerial Silks: Same issue. This is “Circus Arts,” not Yoga.
- Spotting Requirement: Insurance for Acro often requires spotters. No spotter = Negligence.
The “Why”: The Activity Class Code
The Trap:
You applied as “Yoga Instructor.”
You taught “Acro.”
The claim comes in. Adjuster sees photos of people standing on feet.
“This is gymnastics. Denied.”
You need a policy that specifically lists “Acro Yoga” or “Partner Yoga.”
The Investigation: I Quoted 3 Major Carriers
1. Specialty Acro Policy (Broker)
- My Analysis: You often have to go to a circus/gymnastics specialist carrier.
2. K&K (Gymnastics)
- My Analysis: They write Acro under their gymnastics program. It costs more but covers the risk.
3. beYogi
- My Analysis: They do cover Acro Yoga, but strictly defined. No “Cheer Stunts.” Stick to therapeutic flying or basic L-basing.
[IMAGE: Photo of Acro Yoga “Star” pose]
Comparison Table: Acro Coverage
| Carrier | Covers Acro? | Height Limit? | Cost |
| beYogi | Yes | Check Policy | |
| Standard | NO | Yes (<2ft) | $ |
| K&K | Yes | High | |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Modalities: Does your policy list “Acro Yoga”?
- Mats: Crash mats are mandatory for insurance defense.
- Spotters: Mandate them.
- Waiver: Must say “Acrobatics” and “Risk of Falling.”
FAQ
Is Aerial Yoga covered?
Only if “Aerial Yoga” is endorsed. It is high risk.
Can I teach in the park?
Grass is not a crash mat. Liability increases.
What if the Base drops the Flyer?
Base is liable. Teacher is liable for pairing them.