How will this new law help consumers?
Gym memberships have long been known for having complex, hard-to-cancel contracts.
“Gym memberships are notoriously hard to quit because most gym clubs do not want to allow the member to cancel their contract once they realize the hard work and commitment involved in becoming fit,” said attorney David Reischer in Men's Health.
Many gyms spend time crafting hard-to-get-out-of contracts that can require you to write a notarized letter, appear in person or pay a cancellation fee.
The New York state law, which went into effect on Feb. 1, requires businesses to allow customers to cancel their contracts without penalty up to three days after signing, according to Rochester First. Businesses must also accept cancellations and issue refunds within ten business days of a member notifying them.
Butch Nieves, a New York gym owner, thinks the new law is a good thing for consumers and businesses.
"I don't want you to join and not show up. I don't want that," he told CBS News. "You won't get the results, and you're not going to refer me, so what good is that? ... It's about time that most big gyms, and small, are held accountable for their actions."
The Federal Trade Commission has also taken up the fight against gyms and other subscription services that make canceling difficult with its "Click to Cancel" rule. The finalized rule will require sellers to make it as easy to cancel a membership as it is to sign up.
The rule is set to go into effect May 14; however, it has faced some political and legal challenges. It's unclear if or when the rule might go into effect.
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Learn moreHow much do Americans spend on unused gym memberships?
According to Finder, unused gym memberships can cost American consumers $397 million each year. Its survey also found that nearly one-third of Americans pay for a gym membership, while only roughly half of those with memberships use them at least twice a week.
As inflation and food prices continue to increase, the cost of those unused gym memberships can add up. Instead of shelling out cash for memberships, experts suggest considering working out at home or finding ways to fit exercise into your daily life.
“Walking at a moderate to vigorous pace can improve memory, sleep, cognitive function and help control your weight,” Dr. Robert Glatter, a board-certified emergency medicine physician, told New York Post.
Retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink says the simplest exercises are often the most effective. He suggests exercises like pull-ups, squats, sprints and carrying weights to help you stay in shape without overcomplicating your workout — all movements that don't require a gym membership.
"Going back to the basics and doing things that have been used for decades is a solid way to go," Willink told Business Insider. "You can never go wrong with those."
While your health may be priceless, spending $397 million a year on unused gym memberships simply isn't necessary for Americans as a whole. With New York’s new law making cancellations easier and more people potentially turning to simple, effective at-home workouts, consumers now have more control over how — and where — they invest in their fitness.
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