February 2008
The fine print
Beware of the gotchas you'll find in some health-club contracts:
The dues hike. Clubs typically reserve the right to increase your monthly payment once each year.
The moving clause. If you move, some clubs won't let you out of the contract as long as there's a branch within 25 miles of your new digs.
The transfer fee. Even if the club lets you transfer a membership you no longer want to a friend or family member, you might have to pay a hefty fee ($100 in one contract we read).
The assignment switcheroo. Some clubs sell their contracts to finance companies. For contractual problems, you'll have to deal with that company, not the club.
Don't panic if you join a club and regret it the next day. Most states require clubs to give you three days to change your mind without penalty.
The dues hike. Clubs typically reserve the right to increase your monthly payment once each year.
The moving clause. If you move, some clubs won't let you out of the contract as long as there's a branch within 25 miles of your new digs.
The transfer fee. Even if the club lets you transfer a membership you no longer want to a friend or family member, you might have to pay a hefty fee ($100 in one contract we read).
The assignment switcheroo. Some clubs sell their contracts to finance companies. For contractual problems, you'll have to deal with that company, not the club.
Don't panic if you join a club and regret it the next day. Most states require clubs to give you three days to change your mind without penalty.
