Right now, you might just be finishing off a plate of Christmas cookies or polishing off the leftovers of that pumpkin pie you’re Mom baked. Either way, the holidays are a time when most people put on a extra few pounds, so a lot of you maybe thinking about joining a gym come the first of the year.
Sounds like a plan to us, but here are a few things to keep in mind for when the time comes to register, because some places may play to your weaknesses in order to gauge more money out of you.
As 50% of gym memberships are inked in January, this is the time of year when enrollment sales people are on their game. Most places have worked with their people through role-playing and scripts, so they have a good game plan to work you over. The most important thing to remember is that you need to be firm on how much you are willing to pay and what services you want access to.
Remember that membership fees are almost always up for negotiation. We’re in a recession and they want your money, so the ball is in your court to say how much of it they’ll get. Play the field and visit a few places to get a sense of what each place is offering and for how much.
Experts say to avoid providing your bank statement, if you can, as that is where most people are hit with those hidden fees later. Also, be wary the that biggest thing gyms are guilty of is luring people into signing up for personal training. That’s where they make their money and that’s where they will try to get you!
The big thing is don’t let a salesperson take advantage of your desire to get fit for the New Year by guilting you into things you don’t need. You’re taking a step to take care of yourself and the decision to do so is entirely yours.
So be wary when you go, but also be proud! You’re doing a good thing for yourself, but you don’t have to go broke doing it.
