Bronson Urges Consumers To Check Out Health Clubs Before Joining
For Information, Contact:
Liz Compton
(850) 488-3022
Liz.Compton@freshfromflorida.com
December 2, 2008
TALLAHASSEE – Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson is urging consumers to take time to check on the background of a health club or gym prior to signing up or buying a membership as a gift. Many people wanting to start the New Year off right join gyms, but without some investigation they may only lose money.
The department regulates health clubs under the Health Studio Act, which provides some protections for consumers in the event the club closes, moves, or the member cannot use the facilities for medical reasons. Health clubs are required to register with the department, and many are also required to post a bond for member refunds in case the club goes out of business.
“Getting in shape is a great way to kick off 2009 but there are some rules and regulations health clubs need to follow and consumers need to know what they are to be sure they are getting their money’s worth,” Bronson said. “Memberships can be a sizeable investment so it’s worth the time to find out about a facility before signing a legal contract. Consumers need to understand they cannot just change their minds weeks or months after joining and stop paying dues.”
Currently, there are 2,266 health clubs registered in Florida and during the past year, 369 clubs went out of business.
The law provides consumers with the right to cancel a contract within three days of signing it, exclusive of holidays and weekends, but it must be done in writing. After three days, it is a binding legal obligation. If a person becomes physically unable to use a substantial portion of the services for which they contracted, they can put a hold on the membership until the disability ends. If the health studio goes out of business or moves more than five driving miles away from the original location it must provide, within 30 days, a facility of equal quality located within the five miles or the contract is void.
Bronson also recommends consumers follow these tips:
- Call the department's helpline - 1 800 HELP FLA (435-7352) or 1-800-FL-AYUDA (1-800-352-9832) - to make sure that the health studio is registered and to check its complaint history.
- Find out if the studio has posted a bond with the department, as most clubs that collect fees in advance are required to do.
- Find out about the club's cancellation policy in the event a member moves or becomes physically unable to use the facility.
- Visit the club during the hours you intend to use it to determine whether the equipment you want will be available at that time.
- Make sure exactly what the membership fee covers. In some cases, amenities such as racquetball and basketball courts, child care, towels etc. cost extra.
Bronson says like any legal document, it’s important to read contracts thoroughly and make sure that all promises are made in writing. Ask questions to make sure the terms of the membership contract are understood and can be followed.
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