Resolved to Join a Gym in 2017? Read This First

Every year, thousands of people commit to get healthy in the new year. Maybe you resolved to join a gym or workout more in 2017. If you did, you make sure you do your research, or you could be facing a consumer protection disaster.

New Year, New Gym Memberships

New Year’s resolutions are nothing new. Every year people commit to save money, live well, and get healthy. 2017 promises to be no different. According to iQuanti, Google searches for getting healthy were up almost 14% this year. NBC News reports:

“There was a 315 percent increase around the search term 'gym' and a significant increase around fitness-related searches, which shows just how important people are taking physical fitness," said Sastry Rachakonda, CEO of iQuanti.

Many fitness centers and health clubs take advantage of the New Year’s momentum, offering special membership rates and packages. But Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette warns that some deals are too good to be true.

Gym Memberships and Consumer Protection Complaints

In 2016, the Michigan Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Division received 84 complaints against health clubs, gyms, and fitness centers. In most cases, consumers said what they were told by sales personnel didn’t match the written contract. Many others found the high-pressure sales tactics offensive.

So the Attorney General has issued a consumer alert, “Lose Weight, Not Money,” which warns consumers against deceptive practices and fine print. If you are hoping to join a gym in the new year the Consumer Protection Division recommends:

• Visit the gym when you would normally exercise, to make sure it isn’t overcrowded, or dirty, and doesn’t have poorly maintained equipment.
  
• Ask about a free trial period or short-term trial membership to make sure the facilities suit your needs.
  
• Be clear about add-on costs, like classes, personal training sessions, or other fees.
  
• Know your budget going in, so you won’t get talked into a membership you can’t afford.
  
• Avoid facilities offering “free” or very inexpensive lifetime memberships. Remember, it’s the lifetime of the business that counts.
  
• Read reviews and talk to customers to find out how the gym treats its members.
  
• Contact the Consumer Protection Division to find out about any complaints that have been filed.
  
• Read the contract carefully before signing it. Make sure that any special deals are included.
• Understand how to quit before you start. Read the cancellation policy carefully so you don’t get stuck paying for a gym membership you can’t use.

The new year is a great time to improve yourself. But if joining a gym is on the list, make sure you resolve to be careful, too.

Dani K. Liblang is a consumer protection attorney at The Liblang Law Firm, P.C., in Birmingham, Michigan. She can defend you against collections companies and unending membership contracts. If you are facing collections, contact The Liblang Law Firm, PC, for a free consultation.