Joining a gym: get ripped, not ripped off

Nobody likes paying more than they have to, especially when it comes to gym fees, so here are some tips on how to get the best deal when joining a health club.

By William Costello

When it comes to joining a gym we can be unsure of ourselves and sheepishly do what we are told by the eager salesman who keen to have us sign away our lifesavings for the chance to be a part of his not-so-exclusive club.

Be warned, there are sharks out there who will look to exploit our naivety for their own personal gain.

With that in mind, Joe highlights the potential pitfalls to watch out for, while providing you with a few tricks that you can use to get the upper hand. With our help you will not only beat that bulge but the recession too.

Things you can do to get the best deal

Use the recession to your advantage. Play the unemployment card, simply state that you cannot afford the amount they’re suggesting and ask for a better deal!

You are always a student. This might involve bending the truth a bit, but sure, aren’t we all students at the University of Life? Explain that you are waiting on your student card but if you’re to sign up straightaway you want to sign up at the student rate.

Always go to the gym at the time you plan on routinely going. No matter how good a deal you strike up, it’ll never be so good that you can afford to stand around waiting for machines while others queue up behind you.

Say that the other gyms have offered you the best deal possible, right down to paying your mortgage repayments and walking the dog.

Say that you know of someone with the same gym that you’re sure got their membership for a cheaper rate than you are being quoted, but you couldn’t possibly disclose the name.

Use your friends as bargaining leverage. Claim that they will join too if you are given the deal you want.

Never ring before visiting a gym. It smacks of too much interest in that particular gym – just say you were passing by.

Always go gym-shopping at the end of the month, most sales people have quotas to fill.

Things to watch out for

Avoid paying by direct debit. Gyms will keep you on direct debit until you cancel in writing one month in advance. You are better off paying up front if at all possible.

Many gyms demand you come in to cancel a membership in person. There is no legislative reason why you are obliged to do so, you should be able to cancel a membership over the phone. The reason they want you to come in person is so they can put you under high pressure sales and reel you in again. The gym is being sold to you all over again when you see it, you are filled with guilt and lots of people change their mind. Remember Chandler in Friends, when he tried to cancel his gym membership? You don’t want to be him.

Many gyms will have the words “limited time only” printed on an offer that you will find will last for months after you avail of it. This is designed to rush you into making a decision and trick you into thinking that you don’t have time to compare other prices/shop around. Be sceptical at all times.

Some gyms will try to charge you more in monthly instalments than if you paid up front in one lump sum. Take your time, do the maths, don’t get fooled by an offer like this: €65 joining fee and one payment of €600 or monthly instalments of €65. The two options don’t tally and you’ll end up paying €780 if you go for the instalments method.

Maybe bring a witness when signing up for a gym membership, just in case you ever end up in court.

Finally, remember that as the customer, the ball is in your court, so play hard ball.

Happy bargaining.