Consider these other money matters when you choose a gym:
Hidden costs: The monthly membership may be reasonable, but will you
pay out the wazoo in extras? A few years ago, Suzanne checked out a
club that cost $25 a month. What the sales guy didn’t happen to mention
was the $1.35 daily parking fee. If Suzanne went to the gym five days a
week, she would have paid more per month in parking — $27 — than in
membership fees. She ultimately found a gym with free parking (a prized
commodity in Los Angeles).
Some gyms charge extra for specialty classes, such as boxing. Other
clubs don’t have membership dues but charge hefty fees for trainers; the
catch is, you can’t use the club without one. This type of club could run
you $10,000 a year. On the other hand, you’re bound to get plenty of
attention.Initiation fees: In addition to the monthly membership fee, many clubs
require an initiation fee. At least they claim to require it. If you insist
strongly enough, many clubs waive this fee. Or clubs use this initiation
fee as a marketing ploy — something they don’t really intend for you to
pay. Some salesperson may say, “Just because you seem like a terrific
person, and I really want you to get in shape, I’ll waive the initiation fee.
But shh — don’t tell my boss. He’ll kill me.” Initiation fees can range
from $25 to $1,500.
Bargaining: Many clubs make special deals if you ask, although they
don’t advertise this fact. The best time to ask is during slow periods like
summer and the end of the month, when clubs are hungrier for sales. You
may also get a break if you join with a family member or friend. If you
have friends who are already members, ask what they paid; if the sales
rep cites you a higher fee, don’t be afraid to say, “My friend Jane Smith
paid $30 a month, and I’d like the same deal.”Trial memberships:If you’re unsure about the club, ask for a two-week
free trial period before joining, or at least a day pass. Some clubs lead you
to believe that you’re joining for only a month when you’re actually paying
by the month and joining for a year. This is why you need to read your
contract. If you choose to pay by the month, we recommend using your
credit card instead of writing a check. The credit-card company can pro-
tect you from incorrect charges.
Long-term memberships:Don’t even think about it. You don’t know
where you’re going to be in three years (although some club chains do
allow you to transfer your membership) — or whether the club will even
be in business. One club in New York was selling lifetime memberships
until the day before it closed its doors. Never sign up for more than one
year. You may even want to sign up on a month-to-month basis if the
club allows it; you’ll probably pay more, but you give yourself an out if
the club doesn’t suit you.Chapter 18: Health-Club Primer: Getting the Most Out of Your Gym 271