Fitness Contracts Can Be Expensive

New Year’s resolutions are just around the corner and that means it’s a popular time to sign up for gym memberships and work off all those holiday calories.  Too often, consumers run into trouble by not asking the right questions before signing up for a gym membership.

The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) sees a number of common complaints about gym memberships every year.  These complaints are usually related to misunderstandings about what is included in the membership package, cancellation processes if programs or instructors change, and unexpected fees for ad hoc programs or services.

Consumers also have a right to cancel their contract within seven days of receiving a paper copy and they may also cancel if they get too sick or move more than 30 km away from the gym.

Fitness contracts are regulated under the Personal Development Services Contracts regulations of The Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act.  Consumers unable to resolve a dispute with their gym may be able to get help from the FCAA Consumer Protection Division.