As you choose to become a member of a club, you can expect to sign an agreement, indicating the length and terms of membership, as well as payment procedures and club policies.
Examine the agreement carefully. Make sure all verbal agreements are spelled out in writing.
Understand the length of term. Are you agreeing to a multi-year membership, an annual membership, or a month-to-month membership? Do not agree to sign up for a lifetime membership; they are illegal in most states.
Thirty-seven states specifically regulate the maximum length of contract and cancellation provisions. To find out the applicable laws in your state, call your state consumer protection agency or attorney general's office.
Be aware that it is standard policy to offer a "cooling off" period. This period is usually the three days after signing up for a membership, during which you may cancel the agreement with out penalty. You may also want to check to see what other cancellation provisions are in the contract, provided by law, so you know the policy in case you become disabled or move.
Ask if the club will "own" your contract, or if they will sell it to a third party. In the latter case, the club may have less incentive to provide good service and encouragement to stay with your exercise program. Also, it can be difficult to cancel a contract when a third party takes over.
Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been filed against the club.
