In addition to registration of your gym with the State of Texas and satisfying security requirements (e.g. posting a surety bond or qualifying for an exemption), there are certain provisions that must be included in your gym membership agreements.
Traditional gyms (a.k.a. fitness centers), martial arts dojos (e.g. Karate, BJJ, etc.), MMA instructional facilities, and self-defense training studios (e.g. Krav Maga) have a history of taking advantage of customers through deceptive language in their contracts covering monthly billing, automatic renewals, and cancellation policies. In addition, gyms frequently go out of business, particularly those owned and operated by a single owner). The Health Spa Act is a consumer protection law designed to minimize the risks to the customer while enabling the gym owner to run a fair business with minimal government interference.
Here are some of the key requirements of a Texas gym membership contract under the Act.
1. The contract must be in writing and signed by the purchaser.
2. It must include the state registration number (or state-provided location ID number if the business has more than one gym location).
3. The agreement’s term cannot exceed 3 to 5 years (the maximum length is determined by whether or not membership is financed through a retail installment contract).
4. The contract must include statutory language that governs cancellations and refunds under certain circumstances, including a 3 business day right to cancel after signing, permanent closure of the gym, death or total permanent disability of the member.
5. If the health spa has not opened yet when the gym memberships are pre-sold, the agreement must include statutory language about the member’s rights if the gym doesn’t open or closes within 30 days.
6. If the gym membership contract includes a finance charge within the meaning of the federal Truth in Lending Act ( 15 U.S.C. § 1601 et seq.) or Regulation Z ( 12 C.F.R. pt. 226), the Health Spa Act contains language that must be included regarding the member’s claims and defenses.
7. Upon request by a prospective member, the gym owner must provide a comprehensive list of the membership plans available for sale.
What are the potential penalties of a Texas fitness center for failing to comply with the Act?
If you’re unsure whether you’re following the law, it makes sense to discuss it with an experienced Texas business contracts lawyer. To speak with Attorney Young, set up a phone consultation using our firm’s online booking system or call 214-546-4247.
