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Promises are little more than wishful thinking if you do not act on your good intentions. The new leaf we promise to turn over in the New Year is a great example. Think about it. How many resolutions are repeats from last year? No matter if you intend to lose weight, get physically fit or take control of your finances, without action, resolutions are meaningless.
The chances are good that one of your resolutions for the New Year is to drop a few pounds and get in better shape. It is also likely that you will need a little motivation to get going. Changing your environment just may do the trick and being surrounded by exercise equipment may be all you need.
However, before you jump off the couch and into a gym membership, it is wise to tone up your consumer savvy first.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives thousands of complaints about gyms and health clubs every year. 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 the BBB, inspect the facilities closely and read the contract carefully, making sure that all of the promises are in print.
The BBB recommends asking 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 lure in new members. Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.
Will my membership renew automatically?
Every year, BBBs receive a large number of complaints from people who joined a gym and 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.
Promises are little more than wishful thinking if you do not act on your good intentions. The new leaf we promise to turn over in the New Year is a great example. Think about it. How many resolutions are repeats from last year? No matter if you intend to lose weight, get physically fit or take control of your finances, without action, resolutions are meaningless.
The chances are good that one of your resolutions for the New Year is to drop a few pounds and get in better shape. It is also likely that you will need a little motivation to get going. Changing your environment just may do the trick and being surrounded by exercise equipment may be all you need.
However, before you jump off the couch and into a gym membership, it is wise to tone up your consumer savvy first.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives thousands of complaints about gyms and health clubs every year. 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 the BBB, inspect the facilities closely and read the contract carefully, making sure that all of the promises are in print.
The BBB recommends asking 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 lure in new members. Just make sure you understand the terms and what the price will be once the introductory period is over.
Will my membership renew automatically?
Every year, BBBs receive a large number of complaints from people who joined a gym and 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 you go out of business?
BBBs often receive complaints from people after their gym suddenly closed up shop and took their money with them. Ask the gym to explain what will happen to your money if they suddenly go out of business. Pennsylvania law requires a bond for gyms with annual membership commitments – make sure they have one.
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 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.
Edward Johnson is president & CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving the northeastern and eastern Pennsylvania region.
