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Attorney General Mike DeWine
DeWine Offers
Gym Membership Tips; Complaints Doubled in 2014
(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Find out if payments will be withdrawn automatically.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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