Need to cancel your gym membership? Learn how to cancel at Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and more. Get full details, step-by-step instructions, and tips to avoid extra fees.
Canceling a gym membership can be tricky depending on the gym's policies and contract terms. Below is a complete, detailed guide on how to cancel your gym membership properly—whether you're with Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Gold’s Gym, or a local gym.️
How to Cancel Your Gym Membership: Full Guide
1. Review Your Gym Contract
Before canceling, read your contract carefully to find:
- Cancellation policies
- Required notice period (e.g., 30 days)
- Early termination fees
- Contract duration (monthly or annual)
- Acceptable cancellation methods (in-person, certified mail, online)
2. Common Gym-Specific Cancellation Policies
Planet Fitness
- Cannot cancel online or by phone.
- Must cancel in person or send a certified letter to your home gym.
- If under contract, you may be subject to an early termination fee unless you qualify for special exemptions (medical, moving, etc.).
LA Fitness
- Submit a cancellation form via certified mail.
- Alternatively, cancel in-person at the club.
- Must give 30 days’ notice before billing stops.
- Auto-renewals will continue if not canceled properly.
Anytime Fitness
- Every location is independently owned.
- Usually requires written notice or a 30-day cancellation request via email or in person.
- Must pay dues during the notice period.
Gold’s Gym
- May require in-person cancellation at the gym where you signed up.
- A 30-day notice is common.
- Proof of relocation or medical issues might waive cancellation fees.
3. Steps to Cancel a Gym Membership (General)
Step 1: Check contract and gym policy
Find your signup documents or email contract to review the cancellation terms.
Step 2: Choose your cancellation method
- In-person: Go to the gym and fill out a cancellation form.
- Certified mail: Send a written request with your full name, membership ID, and request to cancel.
- Online/email (if allowed): Some gyms may allow cancellation via online portal or email.
Step 3: Include important info
Make sure to provide:
- Full name
- Address
- Phone number
- Membership/account ID
- Reason for cancellation (optional)
Step 4: Get confirmation
Always ask for a written confirmation (receipt or email) for your cancellation. Keep it as proof in case charges continue.
4. Can You Cancel Early?
You might be able to cancel early if:
- You’re moving 25+ miles away from a gym location (proof required).
- You have a medical condition preventing you from exercising (doctor’s note may be needed).
- You’re deployed or traveling long-term (for military or work).
- The gym violates their contract terms (e.g., closed location, faulty equipment).
5. What If the Gym Keeps Charging You?
- Contact your bank or credit card provider to block further payments.
- File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or state consumer protection agency.
- Show your cancellation proof (email/certified mail receipt) to dispute the charge.
Tips to Avoid Cancellation Issues
- Don’t sign long-term contracts without reading fine print.
- Ask about trial periods, cancellation fees, and auto-renewal clauses.
- Always get a copy of your agreement and save all communication.
Final Thoughts
Canceling a gym membership isn’t always as simple as clicking a button. But with a solid understanding of your contract, written proof, and patience, you can avoid unnecessary charges and frustration.