Ontario Government Offers Tips to Consumers Joining a Gym: Following the holiday season, many Ontarians make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or get in shape.
If you are considering joining a gym or fitness club in 2015, here are some tips from Consumer Protection Ontario to help you make smart choices, spend wisely and protect your hard-earned money:
- Before you sign up, ask for a free trial or day pass before making a final decision.
- Talking to club members about the facility can also provide you with good insight.
- If you decide to move forward, read the entire contract, including the small print. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially if you’re unsure of what is and is not included in the membership, such as towel service, pool, and use of a locker.
- You are entitled to a 10-day cooling off period after you sign the contract in case you change your mind and want to cancel the membership.
- Understand your payment options so you get the best deal. You can choose to pay monthly. The gym must offer you the option of paying membership and any initiation fees in monthly installments.
- If you cancel your membership, do it in writing and then hand-deliver the letter or send it via registered mail.
- After cancelling, remember to tell your bank to stop automatic withdrawals from your account.
Protecting Ontario consumers is part of the government’s economic plan for Ontario. The four-part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people’s talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
Quick Facts
- Close to 16 per cent of Canadians belong to a fitness club or gym.
- According to Public Health Agency of Canada, the health benefits of regular physical activity and positive social interaction for adults can help reduce the risk of over 25 chronic conditions. This includes coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, breast cancer, colon cancer, type-2 diabetes and osteoporosis.
Source: http://news.ontario.ca/mgs/en/2015/01/burn-calories-not-your-money.html
