Before signing on the dotted line, here are a few things the Better Business Bureau suggests you do first so you don’t get wrapped into a contract you don’t agree to.
Every New Year’s, hundreds of people make the resolution to lose weight and get in better shape.
During this time, it’s easy to be enticed to sign up for the first gym you see or visit.
Before signing on the dotted line, here are a few things the Better Business Bureau suggests you do first so you don’t get wrapped into a contract you don’t agree to.
Example in Metro Vancouver
A North Vancouver customer filed a complaint to BBB in December 2022 about their experience at a local gym.
According to their complaint they signed a contract that included access to the gym and a personal coach in March 2022.
After trying to cancel the membership in September because of a full-time student program, they were told they would have to pay the remainder of the membership. They had signed up initially for a full year.
The customer was surprised to find that out as they hadn’t read the contract in full detail. The customer was also informed that the gym required a notice of one month that he was leaving and that cancellation fees were applicable.
“This is one of several first-hand experiences we receive from frustrated gym customers across the province,” says Aaron Guillen, media and communications specialist with the BBB serving Mainland BC.
“These sorts of situations could be easily solved with a detailed review of your contract and remembering a few simple questions to ask before signing on the dotted line.”
Here are five top tips for choosing a gym membership.
- Ask about the limited-time free trial. For potential members, gyms will often offer a one-day or a week pass. To encourage new members, gyms may offer special introductory deals. However, the cost could rise after the initial period. You should understand the monthly fees and what they cover.
- What happens if you cancel? Many gyms offer lower monthly rates if you sign up for a full-year. Once you’re locked in, it can be very difficult to get out of that contract, as you may need a doctor’s note saying you’re unfit to workout just to place the membership on pause. You should also keep in mind that some gyms have a one-month cancellation policy if you decide to cancel your membership.
- Take a tour. Check that the gym offers the classes and equipment you want. Pay attention to things that are important to you, whether it’s the cleanliness of the showers or the availability of Wi-Fi. Ask about the wait times, busy times, equipment availability, cost and cost of personal trainers.
- Ensure that verbal promises are made in writing. What happens if you leave the gym or move? Is your membership automatically transferred to a new location without your permission? The membership will automatically renew at the end. Discuss this with the gym staff.
- Don’t feel coerced. Do not fall for high-pressure sales tactics and sign up right away. Many gyms waive the enrollment fee if the customer signs-up for a membership within 24 hours. Rotating welcome offers will be available, so you won’t be left out of the action if you don’t sign up right away. Reputable gyms will allow you to take the time to review the contract, visit the facilities, research and make an informed decision.
For more advice and tips to get started on new year’s resolutions, head to BBB.org/all/new-year-s-guide.