Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing our facilities, participating in classes, or using our services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree with these terms, please do not use our services.

These terms apply to all members, visitors, and participants at Carlson Gracie Blackburn & Clitheroe training facilities.

2. Our Services

Carlson Gracie Blackburn & Clitheroe provides Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction and related martial arts training services. Our services include:

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for all skill levels
• Private and semi-private training sessions
• Competition preparation and support
• Grading and belt progression programmes
• Access to training facilities and equipment
• Seminars and special events

We reserve the right to modify, suspend, or discontinue any service at our discretion, with reasonable notice to affected members.

3. Membership Terms

Membership Types:

• Drop-in Sessions: Single class attendance
• Monthly Membership: Unlimited classes for one calendar month
• Annual Membership: 12-month commitment with discounted rates
• Student/Concession: Reduced rates for eligible individuals

Membership Obligations:

• Maintain current membership status for facility access
• Provide accurate personal and medical information
• Follow all facility rules and instructor guidance
• Respect other members and maintain appropriate behaviour
• Pay all fees promptly and in full

Free Trial Policy:

New members are entitled to one complimentary trial class. The free trial is limited to one per person and cannot be transferred or exchanged for monetary value.

4. Payment Terms & Fees

Payment Schedule:

• Monthly memberships are due on the same date each month
• Annual memberships are due in full upon registration
• Drop-in sessions must be paid before class participation
• Private sessions require 24-hour advance payment

Late Payment Policy:

Refund Policy:

• Monthly memberships: Pro-rated refunds for unused time in exceptional circumstances
• Annual memberships: No refunds after 14-day cooling-off period
• Private sessions: 24-hour cancellation required for refund
• Drop-in sessions: No refunds once class has commenced

5. Member Conduct & Behaviour

Expected Behaviour:

• Maintain respect for instructors, staff, and fellow members
• Follow proper hygiene standards (clean gi, trimmed nails, personal cleanliness)
• Arrive punctually and prepared for training
• Use appropriate language at all times
• Support a positive and inclusive training environment

Prohibited Behaviour:

Violation of conduct rules may result in warnings, training suspension, or permanent membership termination at our discretion.

6. Health & Safety Requirements

Medical Disclosure:

All members must disclose relevant medical conditions, injuries, or medications that may affect their ability to train safely. This information will be kept confidential and used solely for safety purposes.

Health Requirements:

• Members must be in sufficient health to participate in physical activity
• Report any injuries or health changes that may affect training
• Follow instructor guidance regarding training modifications
• Maintain personal hygiene standards to prevent disease transmission

Safety Protocols:

• Follow all instructor safety guidelines and techniques
• Use appropriate protective equipment when required
• Report any unsafe conditions or equipment immediately
• Participate only in techniques appropriate for your skill level

7. Liability & Insurance

Assumption of Risk:

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a contact sport involving inherent risks of injury. By participating, you acknowledge and assume these risks, including but not limited to:

• Bruises, cuts, and minor injuries
• Muscle strains and joint injuries
• More serious injuries including fractures or concussions
• Aggravation of pre-existing conditions

Limitation of Liability:

Insurance Requirements:

We maintain appropriate public liability insurance. However, we strongly recommend that all members obtain personal sports insurance coverage.

8. Intellectual Property

All techniques, curricula, and training materials are proprietary to the Carlson Gracie system and our instructors. Members agree not to:

• Record or photograph training sessions without written permission
• Use our name, logo, or branding without authorisation
• Reproduce or distribute our training materials
• Teach our techniques commercially without proper certification

9. Privacy & Data Protection

We are committed to protecting your personal information in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for detailed information about how we collect, use, and protect your data.

10. Cancellation Policy

Class Cancellations:

• We reserve the right to cancel classes due to instructor availability, weather, or other circumstances
• Reasonable notice will be provided for planned cancellations
• Make-up classes or credits will be offered for cancelled sessions

Membership Cancellation:

• Monthly memberships: 30 days written notice required
• Annual memberships: Subject to full term commitment
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing (email acceptable)
• Outstanding fees must be paid before cancellation is processed

Cooling-off Period:

New members have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date of signing up, during which they may cancel their membership for a full refund.

11. Termination of Membership

We reserve the right to terminate membership immediately without refund in cases of:

• Violation of conduct rules or safety requirements
• Non-payment of fees after written notice
• Behaviour that threatens the safety or wellbeing of others
• Fraudulent or illegal activity
• Breach of these terms and conditions

Upon termination, all facility access and member privileges cease immediately.

12. Dispute Resolution

We are committed to resolving any disputes fairly and efficiently:

1. Direct Communication: Contact us directly to discuss concerns
2. Formal Complaint: Submit written complaints for formal review
3. Mediation: We may suggest mediation for complex disputes
4. Legal Action: Disputes are subject to English law and UK court jurisdiction

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these terms periodically. Significant changes will be communicated through:

• Email notifications to active members
• Posted notices at training facilities
• Website announcements

Continued use of our services after changes take effect constitutes acceptance of the new terms.

14. Contact Information

For questions about these terms or to discuss any concerns: