Local Healthclubs - Buyer Beware

Hey all.

I just came back from hearing yet another story of someone who purchased a membership to a local health club that went out of business the next day. The club reopened with a different name, told the person they'd honor their membership and then said a week later they couldn't but they would offer a free facial.

I used to work for this particular health club and know that they are not reputable.

However, I'd like to say this with all of the health clubs out there:

If you join, don't take the option to pay everything up front

Opt to pay month to month. If you save money from a bank draft or automatic payment, consider that they might add charges to your membership that you never authorized. It has happened. There was a widely publicized case a few years ago that proved one club was adding charges to people's membership that they never incurred

Get a "right to cancel" clause in your contract. You as the client have the right to cancel at anytime and for any reason.

If possible, don't purchase a membership "on the spot". Tell them you'll come back

I've seen more healthclubs come and go in Tucson. There are a few that are good and have had staying power but again, be really careful.

I'm glad to answer any questions about this. And if BrotherHalo, JGoC or Cat don't think this thread is appropriate, feel free to lock it.

I don't mind our members posting warnings on our Tucson forum in the least.. I would think it goes toward community awareness.

Well, I could be seen as a bitter ex-employee but I just hate seeing people get ripped off.

I don't think I'll be joining a HEalth club any time soon (taps is belly, jiggling like a bowl full of jelly), but thatns for the heads up.

It's a Jawa Clause

OY!

you left yourself wide open on that one.

Yup, I walked right into that pun

OMG! I've got a Santa hat that says I've been Naughty. Must put it on the Jawa!

that deserves a picture

Hey, Hey.... remember it all "Mine, Mine, Mine!"