Edmonton, AB (January 12, 2011): Between Dec 1 and 31, 2010, BBB^® of Central and Northern Alberta received the most inquiries and complaints about the following industries: (Ranked from highest to lowest)                  

The following is a consumer tip from the BBB of Central and Northern Alberta.

Gym Memberships

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to feel better about yourself, get healthy or lose some weight? If you did, you aren’t alone. Each January, thousands of Canadians sign up for gym memberships to do exactly that. But before you join a gym, do some research. Here are five questions to answer before signing a contract.

1.    How can I get out of my contract?

Most gyms charge a cancellation fee and require you to follow a cancellation procedure before they’ll cancel your contract. Make sure you understand and agree with what the cost in time and money would be to cancel your membership.

2.    Will my membership renew automatically?

Some gyms automatically renew their memberships. Find out in advance if this is the case with your gym.

3.    What happens if I move?

Gyms can have a number of different policies when it comes to how moving effects your membership. Some may have new locations that you can use, while some may not. If not, the gym isn’t responsible to let you out of a contract to find a more convenient location. Find out before signing the contract.

4.    Does this gym fit my needs?

Determine your fitness goals and gym requirements. Make sure the gym’s hours of operation, equipment, policies and average crowd size fit what you’re looking for.

5.    What are the terms of any introductory offers?

Gyms often use introductory offers to entice new members. Ask about the terms of these offers. When they expire and if your monthly membership will increase after they do?

Contact the BBB of Central and Northern Alberta 780-482-2341 or toll free 1-800-232-7298 if you need more information.

Consumer tips and media releases, from BBB of Central and Northern Alberta, can also be found on our Homepage, Blog and News Centre. Please feel free to subscribe to our RSS feed to receive BBB news at your computer. We also have a Facebook Fan Page and you can follow us on Twitter.

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As the leader in advancing marketplace trust, Better Business Bureau of Central and Northern Alberta is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. Every year, more than 65 million consumers rely on BBB Business Reviews to help them find trustworthy businesses across North America. Visit edmonton.bbb.org for more information.

For media inquiries please contact:

Ron Mycholuk, Community Consultant

BBB^® Serving Central and Northern Alberta

Phone: (780) 488-6632 Ext. 232 Toll Free: 1 (800) 232-7298

Email: ron@edmontonbbb.org