Would you prefer ripped-abs or being ripped-off? The answer is obvious.The new year starts off with many people wanting to get into shape, which is a great goal, but, you don't want to get ripped off while doing it.

Did you know that in 2016, 4000 people filed complaints with the Better Business Bureau against health clubs and gyms? That's a huge number. The way to lower that number is to do a little research before signing up.

Steve Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Chicago and Northern Illinois warns health club patrons tghat complains centered around:

  • billing issues
  • collection problems
  • overall unhappiness with the health club contracts

In some cases, people in Illinois paid for a gym membership, only to find out that shortly after, the facility closed and kept the money. No refunds were ever issued.

The BBB strongly recommends that consumers search their website first, before you pay a penny to a health club to identify any history of complaints.

When it comes to health clubs the BBB offers these tips:

BONUS VIDEO: The Most Dangerous Piece of Equipment in a Health Club

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