Synergy Fitness: Deceitful

Hello,

I, in addition to some friends, am very frustrated with the business practices of a local business that we had come to love and feel a sense of community within.  I'd appreciate any light you may be able to bring to others within our community regarding this.

Two years ago, I signed up for gym membership after encouragement from several friends who had recently joined.  I was reluctant to pay the $99 signup fee in addition to the $30 monthly fee, but the manager Keith promised that this one-time lifetime fee would be the only fee I'd ever have to pay besides the flat monthly fee of $30.

I've enjoyed my experience at Synergy, but several weeks ago, I lost every bit of trust and of the sense of family I had come to feel when a mystery charge of $24.99 appeared on my credit card bill from Synergy.  I inquired about this charge to see if it was a mistake, but the gentleman at the desk informed me that the gym decided to instill a new annual charge of $24.99.  I said that this was not in my contract, and moreso that I had been promised I would never be charged anything besides my monthly fee.  I was told that new contracts explicitly stated this and old contracts gave management the right to add additional fees to members if they so chose.

So much for a promise.  Supposedly a letter was sent out, but I did not receive one nor did the majority of my friends.  The fee is called a "Club Enhancement Fee" to cover upgrades in the gym and help "keep the rates amongst the lowest in the industry."  When I signed up, I was told that my $99 membership fee and monthly fee would contribute to ongoing upgrades to the gym.  So why must every member now pay this fee?  Maybe to generate approximately $50,000 (24.99 x at least 2,000 members)?  The gym placed this charge on my card without my knowing.  Someone at the desk said there are many complaints but that the manager will not refund anyone.

I was informed that the letter sent out included a coupon for a free trainer and a free shake.  I do not want any of this.  I want honesty and respect from those I do business with and have paid hundreds of dollars to, and going behind our backs and charging a fee that I was promised I'd never be charged is not that.

Charging without permission or notice, especially when mislead, is deceitful, dishonest business, and stealing.

-David, a very disappointed Merrick resident