"If you want to join a fitness club to get in shape this year, you´ll need to shop smart and make sure you join the club that is right for you," Watson suggests. 

Minister Watson reminds consumers who plan to join a fitness club to follow these tips:

• Read the contract. Clubs are required by law to offer month-to-month contracts, to protect your money in the event they close, and must limit contracts to one year.
• Inspect the club. Talk to members before you join. Make sure the hours suit your needs and the equipment is properly maintained.
• Remember the five-day cooling off period. You can cancel a contract with a commercial fitness club within five days of signing for any reason under Ontario´s Prepaid Services Act. The cooling off period also applies to martial arts, dance lessons and instruction on talent and modeling.

Watson hopes consumers will remember to shop smart. Last year, the ministry received close to 1,000 fitness-related inquiries.

"Knowing about your consumer rights will help you keep fit physically and financially," said Watson.

Consumers who want more information on fitness clubs should contact the Ministry of Consumer and Business Services at 416-326-8800 in Toronto, toll free at 1-800-889-9768.

Contacts:
Julie Rosenberg
Ministry of Consumer and Business Services
(416) 326-8558