A very interesting thread, and i must say, i have also experienced all the hard sell, and believe me, thats all it is!
Having been a fitness fanatic all my adult life, without the use of high commercialised gyms, I had some thing to bargain with, if they wanted my money.
To negotiate is a skill that must be practiced enough that it becomes routine, these people are pressure sales, the USA technique of selling, groomed for mamimal benefit for commercial purposes.
The gyms before these new alternative gyms came on the scene, where completely different, they relied on minimum cost for community living.
All new high tech gyms are money spinners, most of the PT are not paid fixed income, but have to rely on selling power and commission.
Anyway I don't need this kind of gym, to get fit, nobody does, I can do it on my own, although the gym is convenient, the business concept behind gyms is probably based on social gathering and interaction, a place to meet others, and lets be honest here, once you have parted with your fees, they don't give a damn, all they are interested in next, is a private trainer, right!
A made a good deal for 3 years, very good, although you do have to make the most of it, training 3 days a week at least, to see value for money.
The gym knows very well, that the majority of clients don't ever last the full terms, they pay for. This is also why they don't allow you to resell.
They are only interested in securing the business concept, and that is to take your money. If you only want a 3 month program, it will cost you an arm and a leg.
I would suggest people look at alternative training facilities, in the heartlands, or anyother community centre for a reasonable rate. or take a 2 or 3 year package at a very cheap monthly rate.
You have to tell them how much you want to pay, and what you want for your money! although its give & take on both sides, you can get a good deal.
