Newbie with a question

[Eric_]

Yes, talk to your doctor, but this applies to everyone wanting to get into (or back into) martial arts before they even get on the floor.

[Zorbasan]

Well make this a first. I have referred students elsewhere due to medical reasons.

Very admirable. I don't think a lot of instructors would do this. You clearly had the student's interest in mind.

all instructors should have their students best interests in mind.

in fact, if an instructor allowed a student to train knowing that their course could aggravate and worsen an existing condition that the instructor is aware of, they will actually leave themselves open to a civil action.

[Jiffy]

Yes, talk to your doctor, but this applies to everyone wanting to get into (or back into) martial arts before they even get on the floor.

While this is obviously advantageous, it's not realistic. If I required each new student to see a doc first, I'd never get anyone on the floor. It comes down to a little self regulation. If you have a medical problem, speak to a doctor first, but if you have no reason to suspect a problem, don't worry about it.

[Jiffy]

Well make this a first. I have referred students elsewhere due to medical reasons.

Very admirable. I don't think a lot of instructors would do this. You clearly had the student's interest in mind.

all instructors should have their students best interests in mind.

in fact, if an instructor allowed a student to train knowing that their course could aggravate and worsen an existing condition that the instructor is aware of, they will actually leave themselves open to a civil action.

That's dependant on the situation. In some cases you are right, but it is possible for the instructor to place responsibility on the student to manage their own injury if it is discussed and agreed in writing as such.

[Eric_]

Yes, talk to your doctor, but this applies to everyone wanting to get into (or back into) martial arts before they even get on the floor.

While this is obviously advantageous, it's not realistic. If I required each new student to see a doc first, I'd never get anyone on the floor. It comes down to a little self regulation. If you have a medical problem, speak to a doctor first, but if you have no reason to suspect a problem, don't worry about it.

Of course it's impractical for an instructor to require a checkup, but it's good practice for individuals.