Fitness/Gym Memberships

News year’s resolutions are no stranger to gym memberships. Knowing what to look for before signing a membership contract can help you understand how much you’ll be spending and what the guidelines of your membership are.

Here are some things to know before signing a gym contract:

• Know the cost
• Know your rights
• Remember to ask questions

Know the cost

Ask questions and read your contract before signing your contract to know the full cost of your membership.

Make sure you know:

• what fees are associated with signing up (registration, maintenance, etc.);
• the total amount payable over the life of the contract; and
• if there are extra fees for classes or trainers.
   

Know your rights

By being familiar with the gym contract before signing, you’ll better understand the rights you have as a consumer.

Some rights to know about before signing your contract:

• The term of a gym contract cannot exceed two years.
• You can cancel your gym contract:
  • within seven business days of receiving the written copy of the contract;
  • if you move more than 30 km away from your home gym or one of its locations; 
  • if there are material physical, medical or mental changes supported by your medical practitioner that would make gym participation unreasonable;
  • if there are material changes in the services being provided, or if the facility moves more than 10 km from its former location; or
  • within a year if the contract does not include all required information.
     

Remember to ask questions

Before signing a contract, make sure you ask the following:

• Are there any penalties or cancellation fees for ending the contract before the term ends?
• What is the cancellation process?
• Are there any fees/restrictions for using equipment or attending classes?