CT BBB Offers Southbury Residents Tips for Joining a Gym

The Connecticut BBB Offers “Tips for Joining a Gym”.

With the New Year comes determination and resolutions for many that involve a healthier lifestyle. This usually includes better eating habits and more exercise.

Joining a gym can be a big decision and before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. There are many things to take into consideration before signing a contract for a gym membership.

Better Business Bureau Serving Connecticut and Southbury wants consumers to get the most out of their new gym membership. Consider these tips before making your final decision:

Determine your fitness goals. Determining your goals first will help you select a facility that is most appropriate for you. It’s also a good idea to check with your physician before embarking on a new fitness regiment, especially if you have a medical condition.

Figure out your priorities. What amenities are you looking for in a gym? Do you want a gym that offers personal training? Access to a pool or hot tub? Is a sauna on your must list? If you travel for work, maybe a chain with numerous locations is best? These are all questions to ask yourself before finding the gym that is right for you.

Research. Find gyms that are at a convenient location for you or that have extended hours. Ask your friends or colleagues what gyms they belong to or look for customer reviews online. BBB.org is a great resource that can help you narrow down the list of gyms you want to tour in person.

Take a tour. Make sure the gym has the equipment, classes, and trainers you need or expect. Pay attention to things that are important to you, whether it’s the cleanliness of the locker room or the availability of Wi-Fi. Ask questions and make sure you understand all the rules. Ask about busy times, wait times for equipment, if classes require pre-registration, and availability or cost of trainers.

Ask about free trials. Gyms often give a one-week free pass for potential members; this is a great way to see if the gym is a good fit for you. Try the gym at different times to see how crowded it is and whether there is a wait for certain equipment. Check out classes if they are offered.

Calculate the true costs. Gyms often use special introductory offers to encourage new members, but the price could go up more than you budgeted once the initial period is over. Make sure you understand what the regular monthly fees will be and what they include.

Understand the terms. Read the contract carefully before signing. Make sure that all verbal promises made by the salesperson are in writing. What matters is the document you sign, so don’t just take a salesperson’s word for it. What happens if you move or the gym goes out of business? Will your membership renew automatically at the end of the term? Can you get out of the contract altogether and under what circumstances?

Don’t feel coerced. Don't give in to high-pressure sales tactics to join right away. A reputable gym will give you enough time to read the contract thoroughly, tour the facilities, do some research, and make an informed decision.

Have you seen or heard a gym advertisement that seemed confusing or misleading? You can always report a bad ad to BBB AdTruth.

Remember to use BBB to look up a business before signing any contracts. Discover all that Better Business Bureau has to offer at BBB.org.

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Submitted by Southbury, CT

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