(COLUMBUS, Ohio)—Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine today offered advice for consumers who plan to buy gym memberships in the new year after the Attorney General’s Office received about 250 fitness center complaints in 2014, double the number received in 2013.
“There are many great gyms and fitness centers throughout Ohio,” Attorney General DeWine said. “However, when considering purchasing a gym or fitness center membership, we encourage Ohioans to shop around and take time to review their rights as consumers.”
Top problem areas for 2014 fitness center complaints included billing issues, refund or return issues, and cancellation rights.
In Ohio, consumers generally have three business days to cancel a fitness center contract under the Prepaid Entertainment Contracts Act, which applies to dance studio lessons, social referral services (such as dating services), martial arts training, and health spa services (such as gym memberships).
If a new facility has not yet opened for business, the consumer's right to cancel extends to seven days after the first service under the contract is available.
Cancellations must be in writing and must be postmarked by midnight of the third business day after the first service is available.
Consumers should send the cancellation notice via certified mail, with a return receipt requested, to receive proof the business received the notice.
Before signing a contract with a fitness center, consumers should:
- Search for complaints on file with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office and Better Business Bureau.
- Read the contract carefully and make sure verbal agreements are included in writing.
- Determine the total cost, including any extra fees for fitness classes or personal training.
- Find out if payments will be withdrawn automatically.
- Understand the cancellation policy and whether the contract will renew automatically.
- Check the length of the contract. It should not exceed three years.
Consumers who want to learn more about their rights or those who suspect an unfair business practice should contact the Ohio Attorney General's Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 800-282-0515.
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