I have a year left on my membership, but I'm going back to college next week and therefore won't be able to go anymore. I thought I could freeze the membership until I come back, but they basically told me they can't do anything. What should I do? Just stop paying? It's total bullshit. Why should I be paying when it's impossible for me to go?
If there was they could possibly transfer your account to a Bally's that was near you. Best thing to do is go in there looking pissed off, demand to ask to a manager. Then give them an ear full and they'll usually do something about it.
Everyone has a boss. The higher up you go, the more latitude they have. You may have to call the local corporate office or even the national one. Make them feel like they're doing you a favor. Talk about being a poor college student. Talk about how much you've enjoyed Bally's, but this is leaving a sour taste in your mouth. Several people will say "no". When they do, be polite and ask if you can speak to their boss. Eventually someone will say "yes". It's a year. They won't care. Remember, these people are often forced to say "no", not just because they feel like being dicks about it. Go high enough, and someone will want to play the nice person.
You can't stop paying unless you want to fuck up your credit. They'll send your ass to collections if you stop payments. Try to talk to a manager, or even call their corporate number. Tell them if they don't help you out, they've lost a customer for life. That's probably your best chance.
Bally's is notorious for this. When I first joined the military, I asked to be let from my contract or put on hold. They declined. I talked to the manager, the corporate office, had the recruiter call for me, etc. Nothing. They said that if I declined to payct month to month, they would demand the balance of the contract in one payment and contact my employers. As poor credit is a bad thing when you're trying to get a security clearance, I had to just keep paying.
I agree with the other hooligans. Get yourself thrown out of the gym. Maybe walk around in a speedo or something.
I'm so glad I'm month to month at 24hr fitness. I would lose my mind if I had to pay a years worth of dues and never use it.
