Losing weight is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions after the gluttony of the holiday season. If you’re still pledging to lose some pounds this year by joining a gym, Better Business Bureau (BBB) recommends asking ten questions before signing the dotted line.
Regardless of how eager you are to start losing weight in the New Year, take the time to do your research before joining a gym and don’t give in to high-pressure sales pitches. Always check the health club out with your BBB first at www.bbb.org/search, and inspect the facilities closely and read the contract carefully making sure that all of the promises are in print.
Last year, BBB received more than 6,600 complaints nationwide against gyms ranging from billing and collection issues to overall contract issues.
“Each New Year millions of consumers crowd into gyms armed with willpower and personal goals toward healthier, more active lifestyles,” said Matthew Fehling, BBB President/CEO. “While it’s exciting to gear up towards a goal, it’s also important to treat this decision like any other major purchase.”
BBB recommends asking the gym and yourself the following 10 questions before signing up for a membership:
Questions to ask the gym:
- What are the terms of any introductory offers? Gyms often use special introductory offers to attract new members. Make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.
- Will my membership renew automatically? Many times, people who joined a gym didn’t realize that their contract would renew automatically and that they would have to take specific steps to cancel their contract.
- How can I get out of my contract? Getting out of a gym contract isn’t always as easy as getting into one, so make sure you understand what steps you need to take to cancel your membership.
- What happens if I move? Gyms have a number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far you’re moving and if the gym has other locations near your new address.
- What happens if you go out of business? Ask the gym to explain what will happen to your money if they suddenly go out of business.
Questions to ask yourself:
- What are my fitness goals? Determining your fitness goals in advance will help you select a facility that is most appropriate for you. If you have a serious health condition, consult with a medical professional when setting your fitness goals.
- Is this location convenient? If the gym is across town, you’ll be less likely to workout. Choose a fitness club that is close to work or home so the location is not a deterrent to getting exercise.
- Can I really afford this every month? Monthly gym fees add up and, after any introductory periods are over, the price could jump higher than your budget can handle. Do the math before you join and make sure you can afford a gym membership.
- Am I feeling pressured to join? Do not give in to high-pressure sales tactics to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities and make an informed decision.
- Did I get everything in writing? Read the contract carefully and make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are in writing. What matters is the document you sign, so don’t just take a salesperson’s word for it.
For more advice from BBB on how to be a savvy consumer all year long, visit www.arizona.bbb.org/bbb-news.
About BBB Serving Central, Northern & Western Arizona
BBB is an unbiased organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Businesses that earn BBB accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization’s high standards of ethical business behavior. Incorporated locally in 1938, today your BBB serves communities in Central, Northern and Western Arizona, supported by over 9,400 BBB Accredited Businesses. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Reviews® and charity BBB Wise Giving ReportsTM, and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust.