Preliminary statistics for 2015 reveal the number of consumer complaints about fitness centers and health clubs in Connecticut declined over 2014, but increased across the country, according to Connecticut Better Business Bureau.
The majority of fitness and health centers are ethical and trustworthy businesses, however, across the country, complaints about fitness centers grew to 7,485 in 2015 from 7,153 in 2014. In Connecticut, similar complaints dropped last year to 309, down from 348 the year before.
“A large number of the complaints we see involve contract issues and billing, as well as disputes about cancellation procedures,” according to Connecticut Better Business Bureau spokesman Howard Schwartz.
Common complaints concern difficulty canceling a membership, and repeated, unauthorized charges. In their complaints, consumers tell BBB that some clubs continue to pull money from their accounts or charge their credit cards even after they follow the proper cancellation procedures. In addition, consumers are sometimes left out in the cold if a fitness center suddenly closes its doors without warning.
Members may ask to cancel a membership for a variety of reasons, such as insufficient staff or equipment, overcrowding during peak periods, moving to another city or injury. Other members simply might not like the facilities. Once you sign a contract you are bound to its terms. Unfortunately, some consumers who are anxious to get into shape don’t take the necessary time to ask enough questions or carefully read the contract.
The contract’s terms and conditions will tell you, among other details, payment options, cancellation procedures, whether there are any other fees associated with classes or programs, and sharing of your personal information.
Connecticut BBB offers the following tips to find the appropriate fitness center for you and avoid contractual problems:
Maintain control over your payments – Depending on how you choose to pay for your membership will have a bearing on how expensive or difficult it might be to cancel your contract or stop unauthorized payments. Though the rate for a month-to-month contract may be slightly higher than prepaying for a year in advance, it gives you more control over your credit card or bank accounts in the event of a dispute.
Know your rights – In Connecticut, according to the Department of Consumer Protection, no health club contract may contain an automatic renewal clause, except for a renewal for a period not to exceed one month and only after you have made a first payment. Check the DCP website for more information.
Do your research – Check out a prospective health club with Better Business Bureau to see if other consumers have had a satisfying experience.
Take the facilities for a test drive – Ask if you may try the club for several days. Visit at a time of day when you expect to do your workouts.
Ask lots of questions – Do you have to pay for special classes or activities? What are the terms of introductory periods and what will it cost when that period is over? What happens if the gym goes out of business?
Make certain that verbal promises are written in the contract. Take the paperwork home before joining.
Most important of all, consult your physician before beginning any fitness program.
