If this is your year of wanting to control your weight and fitness, you’ll have more power.
Most likely, you will need to commit to exercising regularly. Better Business Bureau (BBB) has tips to help you determine which gym or health club is the best place to keep you on track.
Make sure you are healthy enough for an exercise program before you begin. If you have not been active for a while, consult your doctor before starting again.
Before you enroll in a local gym or health club, take the time to examine the facility. BBB receives numerous complaints each year about health clubs or gyms that have suddenly closed or refused to cancel a contract or issue refunds. Other complaints concerned inadequate or sloppy maintenance of equipment or facilities.
BBB Company Profiles can help you verify the trustworthiness of health clubs and gyms, as well as other businesses. The profiles available on BBB.org show if a facility has complaints and how the gym has resolved them. You can also find out how long the facility has been in existence, who owns it and its rating from A+ to F.
• Take the time to tour the facility before signing a contract. Check locker rooms and training areas for cleanliness. Are clean towels provided? Are there enough machines for everyone to use, even at peak times like early in the morning and after work? Are there courses or personal trainers available to help you achieve your goals?
• Consider the hours and days the gym is open. Can you exercise at times that fit into your schedule? Is there enough parking space?
• Read all contracts and understand the terms and conditions. What if you move or decide the club isn’t for you and you want to go somewhere else? If the gym closes, can you transfer your membership to another location?
• Ask if the costs remain the same throughout the contract period. Many gyms and fitness centers offer introductory rates early in the year, but after a few months the regular rates will apply. Do the costs fit into your budget? Does the gym bill you or require a credit card or bank account number to charge you monthly? Are there late fees?
With a little effort, you should be able to find a gym that suits you and fits your budget.
Consumers can learn about businesses and charities at BBB.org.
Michelle Gleba is the regional director for the Better Business Bureau in Mid-Missouri.
