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Gym memberships

A low monthly gym price can come with a sign-up fee, a yearly maintenance fee, and a contract that is hard to end. Some clubs require cancelling in person or by mail. This page covers the common traps, free ways to stay active, and how to leave a gym without extra charges.

Common problems to watch for

  • A low monthly rate with a separate yearly fee billed months later
  • Contracts that renew automatically after the first term
  • Cancellation only in person or by certified mail
  • Notice periods that add one or two more monthly charges after you cancel
  • Pressure to sign the same day to get a 'special' price
  • Personal training packages that are hard to refund if unused

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Free and low-cost alternatives

Medicare Advantage fitness benefitsOriginal Medicare does not cover gym memberships, but some Medicare Advantage plans include fitness programs. Check your plan's benefits or Medicare.gov.
Local parks and recreationMany city and county parks have walking trails, outdoor fitness stations and low-cost classes. Check your local government's parks website.
Built-in phone activity trackingThe Health and Fitness apps built into iPhone count steps and track activity for free, and many Android phones include a similar health app.
Walking and body-weight exerciseWalking, stair climbing and simple strength moves at home need no membership. Ask your doctor what is safe for you.

Availability depends on your device and model. AblePro has no relationship with any company named here.

How companies charge more here: Fees that cost them nothing · Exit fees

What fair pricing looks like

A fair membership lists every fee, the contract length and the cancellation method in writing before you sign. Month-to-month plans you can cancel online or with short notice give you the most flexibility.

Before you pay

  • Ask for every fee in writing, including sign-up and yearly fees.
  • Find out if it is month-to-month or a fixed contract.
  • Ask exactly how to cancel: online, in person or by mail.
  • Take the contract home to read before signing.
  • Check whether your health plan includes a fitness benefit.

How to cancel

  1. Read your contract for the cancellation method and notice period before you start.
  2. Cancel in the exact way the contract allows, and ask for written confirmation.
  3. If mailing a notice, use a trackable method and keep a copy of the letter.
  4. Watch your bank or card statements for charges after the cancellation date and dispute any you did not owe.

Step-by-step cancel guide for iPhone, Android and PayPal →

Common questions

Can a gym keep charging me after I cancel?

Some contracts require 30 days' notice or a final month's payment, so one more charge can be allowed. Charges beyond what the contract says should not continue. Keep your written confirmation, and if billing continues, contact the gym in writing and then dispute the charges with your bank or card issuer.

What if I move away or get sick?

Many contracts and some state laws allow early cancellation for moving a certain distance or for a medical condition, often with proof such as a doctor's note. Read your contract, ask the gym in writing, and check your state attorney general's consumer protection office for rules where you live.

Is a yearly 'maintenance fee' normal?

Some gyms charge a yearly fee on top of the monthly price, sometimes months after you join. It should be listed in your contract. Ask about it before signing and include it when you compare prices, because it can change the true monthly cost.

General consumer information, not legal or financial advice. Reports reflect the experiences and opinions of their writers, not AblePro, Inc. We check reports against our posting rules but do not verify them.