I could not agree more with JB's complaint about Private Workout on Preston Rd., in Plano. Last summer, I went into the gym with intentions of signing up for the boot camp that was advertised in a local newspaper, hoping that it would supplement what I was doing at the time. I walked out with the same protein shakes and contractual commitment JB agreed to. I should have listened to my intuition while I was being sold on the same mechanically recited pitch JB endured.
For the past 9 months, I have felt like a big SUCKER for signing up with this cookie cutter program that is sold as high intensity, efficient, and audience-free; however, it is without a doubt boring, repetitive, and negatively stimulating. I completed 18/100 workouts from June to November I have not been back since. Not one person from Private Workout has called to find out why I have not been there. It is my opinion that Private Workout does not have the best interest of their clientele in mind in terms of individualizing programs that are safe for all types of gym goers and member satisfaction and retention.
I gave up everything I enjoyed about working out when I joined Private Workout. I begrudgingly cancelled my membership with another fitness club (an easy process, compared to this one) that offered a variety of classes, a great locker room, and the same amount of support in terms of learning the equipment and educating me on ways to style my own fitness program without hiring a fitness trainer. I also cancelled working out with partners, which promoted accountability to my fitness routine, as well as flexibility in the hours of operation.
Private Workout wants me to pay $323 to quit my agreement. This amount includes $199 cancellation free, $36 per month for three months (90 day cancellation notice), plus tax. It is my understanding that Private Workout justifies the $199 cost by stating it as a "loan" to the client for the 100 workouts, after completing the 100 workouts, the monthly dues drop to $8 per month all of this on top of the $36 per month that you pay while you are trying to complete the 100 workouts! Even though I have been encouraged to complete the remainder of my 100 workouts to avoid having to pay the high cancellation dues; I simply can not stand the thought of walking through the doors, again. I do not want to hear the sales pitch being delivered to new victims, over and over; I do not want to carry that clip board from room to room while trying to manage equipment settings; I do not want to hear that recording every minute to tell me "Let's get skinny! Let's go, let's go!"
This contract is one of the most regretful decisions I have ever made. I deserve what I get for falling into this trap, but please use my experience in considering what you really want out of a fitness facility and workout program. I will certainly remember that shady businesses like to lock in their clients with unreasonable and difficult contracts so they can get their money. I do not feel that anyone from Private Workout has gone above and beyond in trying to mend their relationship and reputation with me; therefore, I can not whole-heartedly recommend Private Workout's program and services. Buyers beware!
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