DIET | DETECTIVE^®

Perhaps the smartest question to ask is, "What it will take to end my membership?" If the process sounds about as simple as passing legislation through Congress, you may want to consider taking your business elsewhere.  Before you sign, ask for a copy of the contract to take home (if the club won't allow it, get outta there) and look closely at the fine print. Beware of the following:

Any number over 36. Under New York state law (state laws may vary), clubs are not allowed to set up payments for longer than 36 months or charge more than $3,600 for the life of the contract.

Automatic transfer. Having the club automatically take money from your bank either for a lump sum payment or on a month-by-month basis may seem convenient, but it could cause unforeseen problems once your membership expires. 

Reservation of rights. When signing a contract that includes this clause you may be giving the club the right to take back the hours, services and equipment they promised you when you first signed up. The clause allows the club the right to discontinue complimentary massages, towels, or sauna privileges.

Waiver and release. Some gyms ask you to sign a waiver that protects them from liability if you get injured. "By law, a club cannot require you to waive your rights.

On the flip side, a good contract will include:

Bonding. If the club goes out of business (which, unfortunately, many do), some have a bond with the Department of State that can entitle you to a refund.

Buyer's right to cancel. You are entitled three days to change your mind after signing, in which you may terminate the contract without question. You should also be allowed to cancel if you move beyond 25 miles from the club or some of the services promised in the contract are discontinued (such as access to a swimming pool).

Transfer membership. This option lets you pass what's left of your paid membership to someone else, either by giving it away to a friend (what a pal you are!) or selling it outright.

Cancellation upon death or disability. A clause your next of kin will appreciate, this releases you (and your family) from the agreement if you die, or if you're injured and can present a letter from a doctor indicating that you're not able to exercise for six months.

If there's a fitness club you'd like to join and you want to get the scoop before you sign up, write to your local chapter of the Better Business Bureau for a free history of complaints pertaining to the club.

Bookmark:

TrackBack URI for this entry

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed