The Better Business Bureau Advises: Lose Weight Not Money

CHICAGO, IL - January 26, 2012- Each New Year millions of people crowd into gyms armed with willpower and personal goals toward healthier, more active lifestyles. While it’s exciting to gear up towards a goal, it’s also important to treat this decision like any other major purchase. If you’re pledging to lose some pounds this year by joining a gym, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides ten questions to ask before signing on the dotted line.

In the past twelve months, the BBB serving Chicago and northern Illinois has received 296 complaints against Health Clubs and Fitness Centers. The complaints range from billing and collection issues to overall contract issues.

“Joining a health club can be a major investment, so first check out www.bbb.org to see how your club ranks,” said Steve J. Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and northern Illinois. “Take time to ask the gym and yourself some important questions before rushing to sign up for a membership.”
 
Five questions to ask the gym:
 
What are the terms of any introductory offers? Gyms often use special introductory offers to lure in 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 would need to take to cancel your membership.

What happens if I move? Gyms have any number of different policies when it comes to how moving will affect your membership. It might depend on how far away you’re moving and if they have other locations nearby.

What happens if the gym goes out of business? Ask the gym to explain what will happen to your money if they suddenly close down.
 
Five questions to ask yourself when looking at potential gyms/health clubs:

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 work out. Choose a fitness club that is convenient 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.bbb.org

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As a private, non-profit organization, the purpose of the Better Business Bureau is to promote an ethical marketplace. BBBs help resolve buyer/seller complaints by means of conciliation, mediation and arbitration. BBBs also review advertising claims, online business practices and charitable organizations. BBBs develop and issue reviews on businesses and nonprofit organizations and encourage people to check out a company or charity before making a purchase or donation.