Gym Membership Cancellation Policy Sparks Outrage Among Members

A Sydney man's attempt to cancel his Anytime Fitness membership before moving overseas has ignited a wave of complaints from other members regarding the gym chain's stringent and often convoluted cancellation policies. The man was reportedly asked to provide "proof of relocation," including a flight ticket, to finalize his cancellation after completing an 18-month contract.

According to the gymgoer's account, after informing an employee of his permanent move abroad, he received an email detailing the required supporting documentation. The email stated that once the necessary documents and a completed cancellation form were received, his membership could be terminated in accordance with the agreement. The man expressed disbelief at the hoops he felt he had to jump through, calling the process "all f***ing BS."

He was also informed that 30 days' notice was required and that he needed to complete the cancellation form in person. While Anytime Fitness's website notes that cancellation policies can vary by location and advises members to visit their home club to sign a form, it also states that conditions apply for cancellations due to medical reasons or relocation during the minimum contract period.

The customer's frustration has resonated with many others who have shared similar experiences. One member recounted multiple emails and in-person visits over several weeks before their cancellation was processed, alleging that the gym purposely delayed responses. Another individual claimed they were charged an additional $50 cancellation fee because they had been a member for over 12 months, a policy they deemed unfair.

Some customers have reported resorting to more drastic measures to end their memberships, including blocking payments through their banks or canceling credit cards when faced with persistent difficulties. "If you try to cancel over the phone, they ask you to come in to complete a cancellation form. If you go in, they ask you to do it online. I tried several times and ended up cancelling my credit card to stop payments," one member stated.

However, not all experiences were negative. Some individuals reported smooth cancellation processes. One member stated they cancelled their membership with Anytime Fitness years ago with no issues, only requiring 30 days' notice. Another claimed to have successfully used an online cancellation request the previous month and received confirmation the following day with no questions asked.

Anytime Fitness has been contacted for comment regarding these reported issues. The prevalence of these complaints suggests a significant disparity in customer experiences with the gym's membership cancellation procedures across different locations.