I joined Bally Total Fitness in Pasadena and signed a complicated 10 page document for the membership. I was told I could cancel any time if not happy with the gym. I was unhappy with the gym for several reasons - but also had health reasons for not going and after a few weeks called to cancel. They said I could not cancel unless I had a medical reason - they required proof - Doctor's letter, dates and times of medical condition etc etc. I went to the trouble - and put my doctor to the trouble, of writing the letter (I have Asthma and toe joint pain). But this was of no consequence - they wanted more "proof", and I was not allowed to discontinue my membership. Then they started sending harrassing letters demanding $1768.00 or they would report my "delinquent account" to credit bureaus. Which they did. They called me repeatedly on my cell every day for months to harrass me - and sent numerous threatening letters. I had only used the gym 4 or 5 times in the first few days and was no longer interesting in the unprofessional behaviour of the staff (cancelling a training seesion last minute and not making it up or refunding the cost, salacious behaviour by a male trainer), and the fact that I was having trouble with my asthma and toe joints. I think fair enough reason to cancel membership. And in fact feel that it is outrageous in the first place to con people into signing a two year agreement for $2000 that it is not possible to cancel at any time or ever for gym membership. Call me stupid - but it did not cross my mind that a gym would have such a toxic policy that can only do their business harm. Two years later - after they have destroyed my credit rating - they are still sending letters offering deals to pay off my "debt" - while also sending me emails to join the gym and leaflets extolling their wonderful services.
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