If 2009 is the year you resolve to join a fitness club to improve your health, make sure you’re fully informed about what you’re getting into, Consumer Protection Commissioner Jerry Farrell, Jr. said today.
“We saw a higher than usual number of health club closings last year, and more are likely,” Farrell said. “Caring for your health and fitness is important, but be sure to protect your finances as well when signing a health club membership contract.”
Consumers have two important rights regarding their health club contract. First, if you sign a health club contract, you have the right to cancel within three business days if you change your mind. Second, if your club moves or closes down, if you become disabled, or if you move more than 25 miles away from the facility, you also have a right to cancel the contract and receive a prorated refund
“Over the past two years, we’ve been very busy, working with many former club owners and consumers to secure fair compensation for those members whose contracts were affected by a club closing,” Farrell said. “I urge consumers to be extra cautious during these turbulent financial times.”
Farrell encourages potential members to ask about and utilize free trial periods, and to strongly consider signing on for the shortest possible membership until you get a better feel for the facility and your actual use of it.
“Because health clubs vary in terms of contract terms, services, and costs, you need to find the facility that offers the amenities and terms that work best for you,” Farrell said. “If you have questions or concerns about a health club, please contact the Department of Consumer Protection at 1-800-842-2649.”
The Department licenses all Connecticut health clubs, including health spas, sports clubs, tennis clubs, figure salons, self-defense schools, golf and tennis clubs, racquetball courts and platform tennis clubs. The agency also administers the Health Club Guaranty Fund, a pool of money held in reserve to aid consumers who lose money when their club closes unexpectedly. For more information, visit www.ct.gov/dcp.
