Matthew Mason-Cox med rel: Consumers urged to read fine print before joining a gym

NSW Fair Trading Minister Matthew Mason-Cox is urging consumers wanting to kick start their Spring fitness regime to read contracts carefully before joining a gym, as consumer complaints reach a three year high.

Mr Mason-Cox said Fair Trading received 456 complaints about health clubs and gyms in the 2013-2014 financial year, the highest level in three years.

“We have also seen a significant increase in the level of consumer enquiries, which was up 60 per cent to 727 in the past financial year,’’ he said.

“This is a concerning trend, which is why we are urging consumers to shop around and check the fine print before signing any contracts.

Mr Mason-Cox said while complaints were up, many of those issues were resolved by NSW Fair Trading.

Of the 456 complaints registered in the 2013-14 financial year, 189 related to cancellations and cooling off of contracts and 88 involved refunds.

“Joining a gym can be costly, so don’t be pressured into signing up on the spot,’’ he said.

“A number of gyms now offer short duration membership or pay as you go options, so it is best to shop around and find a gym agreement that best suits your needs.

“Be wary of special deals and promotions offered in a verbal sales pitch. “Put any changes in writing as proof of what has been agreed and understand that by signing a contract, both parties are agreeing to all the small print.

Mr Mason-Cox encouraged customers to choose a gym that was a member of Fitness Australia and operated under the NSW Fitness Code of Conduct. The Code sets a standard for consumer protection.

“Gym operators should clearly outline terms and conditions of their direct debit arrangements both at the time of joining and at the end of the agreement,’’ he said.

The Australian Consumer Law protects consumers from misleading or deceptive conduct.

“Businesses are in breach of the law if they create a misleading overall impression to the customer about the price, value or quality of the goods or services they offer,’’ said Mr Mason-Cox.