There are lots of television ads for Bally Total Fitness this time of the year. Most people’s New Year’s resolutions include losing weight, getting in shape or both, so a gym membership may seem like a good idea. With more than 400 locations in six different countries and major cities throughout the United States, Bally may seem like the right choice, but before you decide, let’s look at what Bally has to offer and how much it may cost you.
Here are a few facts about the company that you may not know. Bally Total Fitness is a “brand name.” You will find that each location has a retail store where a variety of Bally brand name products are sold. They sell things like meal replacement bars and powders, dietary supplements and vitamins, towels, work-out clothes, etc. Most locations are now franchises that are privately owned and operated. What this means to the consumer is that the condition of the equipment and facilities may vary from one location to another. In addition, advertised specials may not be available at all locations.
All locations offer changing and locker rooms, exercise classes and cardiovascular equipment, strength training and resistance equipment. The number of pieces of equipment found in each location varies from only a few to a hundred of each. Busy locations in major cities have more pieces of equipment, but they also have more members, so work-out areas can sometimes be crowded.
Most Bally locations have on-site child care. Pools, saunas, whirlpools, racquet ball courts and juice bars are found in some of the larger locations. Massage therapy and chiropractic care is available in a few locations. Additional fees are charged for massages and chiropractic, but some locations are offering free massages for Christmas, if you are currently a member.
Currently, available classes include yoga and flexibility training, pilates (work-outs that focus on the abdominal muscles) and boxing. Class availability and schedules will vary from location to location. Class sizes are not always limited, particularly if membership drives are on-going. Free guest passes include access to the classes, so, as with the work-out rooms, the classes can be crowded. If there are several locations that are convenient for you, you can attend classes or work out at different locations, (maybe find one that’s a little less crowded) but additional fees are charged for that privilege.
Each location employs personal trainers. Right now, four sessions with a personal trainer cost $175 plus the regular membership fee. Fees for monthly memberships range from $18 to $62. It is possible to pay your membership fees on a yearly basis. Monthly membership fees can be deducted directly from a credit card or checking account. You can pay at the gym, but some members have reported problems getting proper credit.
Signing up requires signing a contract. Remember that it is always important to read the contract. In 2007, over 52 complaints concerning Bally Total Fitness Centers were recorded at www.consumeraffairs.com. Many were caused by failure to properly read the contract that was signed, but in some cases, the difficulty arose from misunderstanding the cancellation policy. Canceling a membership can be difficult, so be certain that you understand the policies before you sign the contract and before you supply credit card or other personal information.
Sources:
www.consumeraffairs.com
www.ballyfitness.com
telephone conversation with Bally employee at Prince William County location
