BBB has also seen a rise in complaints about fitness centers that sold memberships, only to go out of business a few weeks later, leaving disgruntled customers behind trying to recoup their advance payments.
Many complaints come from consumers whose fitness center either closed up completely or changed management shortly after they joined. The complainants typically wanted refunds for membership fees paid in advance, or were dissatisfied with the new ownership and policies and wanted out of their contract.
"This time of year many people are seeing and feeling the after-effects of those big meals and are resolving in the new year to join a gym and lose weight," said Steve J. Bernas, president & CEO of The Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois. "The trends we're seeing in complaints against fitness clubs tells us that consumers need to read the fine print on the contract before they sign, and keep a close eye on their bank statements to make sure they're not getting billed more than they should be."
While some complaints regarding billing are basic billing errors the majority of billing complaints center on being billed after the member felt their contract had expired Many consumers either assumed their contract would not be renewed, or filed the appropriate paperwork to cancel their membership but continued to have fees withdrawn from their bank accounts.
Contract dispute complaints vary, but typically involve disagreements over promises made by the salesperson versus what the membership actually included, and the policy for getting out of the contract if the member relocated to another area. We also have 9.9 percent of our complaints coming from Sales Practice issues.
"If you're looking to join a gym, do your research with friends and family and check out the fitness facility's complaint record with BBB's free reliability reports," added Bernas. "It's important to make sure the facilities meet your needs, but it's equally important for consumers to know that the company can be trusted to be upfront about its plans, its contracts and be competent with its billing process." BBB offers the following advice to help you select a fitness facility that best meets your needs.
Check with BBB first. Not only can you go to www.chicago.bbb.org
Determine your fitness goals. What are your fitness goals (build endurance, increase strength, become a better tennis player?) and how will you accomplish them (swimming, weight-training, yoga?). Considering these issues 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.
Consider your budget. Most facilities charge an up-front membership fee to join and a monthly fee thereafter. What amount can you comfortably devote to physical fitness?
Check out the facilities. Visit several different clubs on days and at times that you plan to exercise to see how crowded they are. Do the facilities offer the equipment, classes, amenities (child care, personal trainers) and hours of operation you require? Note the cleanliness and condition of the equipment, work-out area and locker room, as well as staff member availability.
Ask around. Check with friends and family for recommendations. And when visiting fitness clubs, ask members about their experiences - are they satisfied?
Don't give in to pressure. Many clubs will be offering "New Year's specials" - walk away from clubs that pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. In fact, take a sample contract home to read it thoroughly.
Read the entire contract. Does it list all services and facilities and the hours of operation? Is everything that the salesperson promised in the contract? What is included in the monthly fee and what's going to cost you extra? What's the total cost and payment schedule, including enrollment fees and finance charges?
Know the membership details. How long is the membership term and is there an automatic renewal? Can you go month-to-month? Some facilities give customers several days to reconsider after signing the contract; if so, get it in writing. What are your cancellation rights if you move to another area, are injured, or the club closes or is taken over by new management? Will the unused portion of your membership be refunded, and if so, how and when? These details should all be in the contract.
For more advice from BBB on finding reliable companies and businesses, start your search with trust at www.chicago.bbb.org
