Five Questions to Ask When You Join a Gym
As the new year draws near, many people are probably resolving to lose
weight or get into better physical shape. If so, you’re not alone, because
more than 45 million Americans belong to health clubs, according to the
IHRSA, an industry group. Before you sign up, however, the Iowa Society of
Certified Public Accountants recommends you ask these questions to ensure
you spend your money wisely.
Can I Start on a Trial Basis?
Many people join health clubs with great intentions, but they find that
they don’t really use the facility as much as they thought they would. With
that possibility in mind, ask if you can try out the club for a week or more
to see if you like working out there and if it’s convenient for you. In the
same vein, when it comes time to sign a contract, don’t automatically accept
a one-year membership. Instead, ask if you can join for a shorter period so
you’re not committed to paying for months of membership that you may not
actually use.
Can I Have Some Time to Read the Contract?
There should be no need to sign a contract on the same day that you
first visit the facility, so don’t feel pressured to do so. Instead, take
the paperwork home and read it over to be sure you understand what you’re
agreeing to. Make certain that the details in the contract match any
promises made during your visit. If you have any nagging doubts about
joining, check to see if the contract allows a grace period in which you can
change your mind without violating the agreement. Educate yourself about the
club’s cancellation policy. Will you be able to get your money back if you
are injured, move out of the area, or can no longer use the facility for
some other reason?
How Busy Is It?
If the gym has no limits on the number of members who can join, it could
become a very busy place after work or on weekends. Try to visit during peak
hours to find out whether there are lines or sign-up sheets for the
equipment you want to use or if classes you plan to take fill up early. Make
sure you know the hours of operation, too, to confirm that they are
convenient to your schedule.
What’s Included in Membership?
In addition to the basic gym equipment or classes, what other options do
you want as part of your membership? Many health clubs provide nursery
facilities where members’ children are cared for while they work out. If a
club is part of a chain, you may be able to use other facilities under the
same management. Before you begin to visit clubs, think about which extras
you are seeking and find out if the gym offers them.
What’s the Club’s Reputation?
It’s a good idea to talk to friends or neighbors who use the facility to
see if they are satisfied, but don’t stop there. In addition, contact the
local Better Business Bureau or state attorney general’s office to see if
there have been any complaints made about this club. If they have received
reports from dissatisfied customers, find out what kinds of problems have
arisen.
Your Local CPA Can Help
Investigating the best health club options is one way to ensure you make
the best use of your money. If you have other questions about financial
issues, remember that your local CPA can help. He or she has the expertise
to help you make the best decisions. If you are looking for a CPA, go to
www.findanIowaCPA.com.
