Monday, February 1, 2010

Update to Gym Post

After reading my below gym post, read this one

Flex Gym in Smyrna, 6670 New Nashville Highway. 462-6593.

So this time I made what seemed like a pretty good offer to them. I asked them to change the 2 year contract to a one year contract. Monthly membership fee for a one year is $54.98 plus tax. Monthly membership for a 2 year is $44.98 plus tax. I offered them the difference for the months we already paid, plus the rest of what would be a one year contract all up front. Total came to $329 and some change. Would have completely satisfied the obligation for a 1 year contract and would have released us to go to a gym where they 1) didn't lie about the services they offered, 2) had some people skills, 3) had up to date equipment (none of which exist at Flex Gym). I typed up a nice spreadsheet explaining exactly what I was offering.

Doug, the owner calls me and says he would allow us to pay out the 2nd year in full and then convert our monthly payments to the monthly payments of a 1 year contract, effectively ADDING to our total payments. Are you KIDDING? Why would we pay you MORE for substandard services that we are trying to get away from? I told him no, of course. The thing is, he thinks that his contract ties us to only use Flex. I am contending that their product STINKS and I don't want to pay for it anymore.

Here are my gripes:
1) Cindy was promised certain classes, Yoga, Pilates, Cardio Kickboxing--they don't have any of these and haven't had them since September
2) Their machines are ancient. I like to use ellipticals. They have 3 with the arms that work. One of them is usually broken and the other two are not smooth operating. Plus, the position you stand on them is very uncomfortable on the back
3) They can just plain be rude. I don't expect 5 start hotel service, but at least say hi when you walk in or say bye when you leave. Even before all this mess, they were rude.
4) There are MUCH better gyms at cheaper prices in Smyrna. Even the Town Center is better!

I admit we signed the contract and therefore we are obligated, but most contracts have some kind of way out if the product does not pan out to be what you were promised! These people are totally unreasonable! I am so angry I could spit!

My next step is to contact the Consumer Affairs Division. They are the ones that have the Consumer Protection Act.

I wonder why this business does not see the value of having happy customers. I mean, I offered a reasonable way for both of us to end the relationship on good terms and not have to do all this mudslinging but they are unreasonable! I believe in the importance of contracts. I think our economic system is built on the enforceability of contracts. My job depends on contracts. But even in real estate, if the product does not fit the initial expectations (fails an inspection, etc.) you can get out of the contract.

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