LA Fitness Body Of Change breach of contract, rip off Boca Raton Florida
NOTE: Coral Springs - 18 Minutes & 10.93 miles away from Boca West Club
Boynton Beach - 26 Minutes & 20.55 miles away from Boca West Club
NOTE: Average Wait Time to get through to someone at Quality Control is 15 minutes.
3/3/06 - Rc'd a call from Miguel, Director at 7:56 pm - he stated that he's reviewed my issue and they are holding to the contract and will not refund my money. They will however, be more than happy to schedule me and stated that they had a trainer available but I wouldn't confirm. I advised him that it was the other way around and I was waiting for Alyne to get back to me with a confirmation and she never did. He also stated that the GM, Allan at the club tried to schedule with me several times I informed him that this was inaccurate as he's never called me stating that he had availability. In fact the last and only time I did hear from him- on my voice mail (still may have the message), he stated that he had no availability.
I advised Miguel that I was just there last Wednesday and even spoke to the trainer that was supposidly available and he wasn't at all. In fact there weren't any trainers available. I then stated that if he could schedule me, why not? Let's see if he was able to do what no one else has been able to do for over a month. He said he would have to contact the GM and I told him to go ahead and I would hold. He also asked what days I prefer and I told him anything at this point and he asked what time and I replied my usual time. After being on hold for approximately ten minutes, he got back on the phone and stated that they do not have any trainers available at this time but they would let me know when one becomes available.
I must say that I found this amusing. I knew that that's exactly what he would come back with and I honestly think I'm crazy over this by now, but I thought,okay, maybe I'd get lucky and we can end this right here, right now and everyone will be happy. I explained that it's been over a month and I feel that it's not right that I'm suffering because their company cannot find and retain employees. I let him know that I feel so very uncomfortable with this organization and its practices and I have contacted the BBB, Atty General and the CC company. He stated that that's fine and they have no problem responding to those complaints. He stated to me that I started with evenings (this seems to be the EXCUSE) and I stated that that was one time and have been an AM client ever since as I realized the PM didn't mesh with my work schedule. I asked him if he saw the letter that Ayline had sent me and he said he had.
I asked about the cancellation option and he said that they are going by the contract. I asked him to please elaborate because how I veiwed it to read was that I would be entitle to 50% of my unused sessions back and he stated that the State of Florida will not permit them to give refunds unless it's of a medical condition as stated in the contract. He said the contract I signed was a month to month contract and not a paid in full contract so therefore, since I have now paid in full for prepaid sessions, I was now considered a full paid client and would not entitled to the 50% option. I would be able to cancel but would forfeit all my money.
I explained that the only reason I paid it off was due to an accounting error on their part in which I incurred a $5.00 fee for insufficiant funds, which was inaccurate. So to avoid issues in the future, I just went ahead and paid in full. So, the end result - they will continue to work on getting me a trainer - who knows how long that will take. I stated that I hear him loud and clear, their position is - no refund, wait and see. I let him know that he should continue to do what he needs to do and get the company straightened out and I'll do what I need to do. I ended the call with that and wished him a great weekend.
SIDE NOTE: Somewhere during the conversattion I let him know that it was funny how he called while I was on the internet viewing all of the complaints about the company-he didn't seem to have much to say about that SIDE SIDE NOTE: I am so frustrated, but I cannot help but find this somewhat amusing. I mean it's admitted that they cannot provide me with the service promised and I find this whole situation to be somewhat of a jaw dropper. How can this company even exist with this type of attitude.I'm baffled and have no idea how to react emotionally. It 's quite clear that they are not in the business of helping people acheive their goals.
3/3/06 - still no response from the company. Gathering all information to send to Atty General's office, ATTN: CAU 110 Sherman Street, Hartford, CT 06105 (860) 808-5318. Sent off today certified
3/2/06 - sent email to Ayline and copied in the President of the company to verify my call of last night and her promise to me. I gave her both contact numbers and times to reach me.I also called and left a voice mail message advising her that I sent her an email and that I would be leaving in 20 minutes, but would be available at the 483-6695 number at 6:30.
3/1/06 - called Ayline at approximately 7pm to verify they rec'd the letter and to see if there were any further decisions made. She stated that she's been out of the office at the doctors for 1/2 of the day and she is meeting woth upper management going over my issue. She promised that she would touch base with me tomorrow with a resolution.
3/1/06 - responded via email to the letter. Rec'd a read receipt from Ayline.
2/28/06 - late evening - rec'd letter from Ayline - not fromlegal - interesting!! The letter was dated 2/22/06 - also interesting!! Will send out response tomorrow, 3/1/06.
2/28/06 - 5:25 - tried again - no answer and left no message 3:40 - tried them again - no answer, left no message 1:10pm - called Ron and Ayline again - no message for Ron, but I did leave a message with Ayline stating that once again empty promises because she hadn't returned my calls or responded to any of my emails. I asked her to please respond either way and left my #. 11:20 tried both Ron and Ayline and got voice mails - did not leave a message and will try again later.
2/27/06 1:45pm - spoke with Christie in legal. She stated that she tried to return my call but couldn't get through. She verified the number and it was correct so I cannot understand why she couldn't get through. With all the lies thus far, I doubt she even tried. Anyway, I asked her about the status of the letter and she stated that she has nothing to do with writing letters re: memberships, etc. nor does she deal with BBB complaints, credit card disputes, etc. She stated that would be John, Ron's supervior's decision. I explained that I've spoken to Ron in the past, he won't return my call, John will never get on the phone and Ayline won't return my calls. She stated that she would check with John, Ron and see what's happening. She verified my number again and said she would call me back.
2/25/06 - sent email as well as left voice mail to Ayline
2/24/06 - Still no responsed from Ayline. Called twice - once not leaving a message and one much later - around 10:00 leaving one.
2/23/06 - Filed my complaint with the BBB due to no response - emailed Ayline twice with no response, and I do have a read receipt - the morning email stated - Good morning. I was wondering if you were able to confirm with the GM on trainer availability. Also, I wanted to bring to your attention that it has now been one (1) month that I have not had use of a trainer. The progress I was making has been disrupted and I will need to begin the entire program again. If you are still refusing to refund my money so I can seek alternative training, I must insist on a new contract that supersedes my current one allowing me the opportunity to do my 54 session program from the beginning.
My afternoon email stated - Good afternoon. Would you please provide me with the status of my issue? I need to begin to plan my schedule for next week. Please feel free to call me at the number below.
2/22/06 - 2pm - Ayline called me - (800) 600-2540 ext#330 - and I returned her call. She stated that I originally started in the evening and I let her know that I tried it twice in the evening and it wasn't good for me due to work. I then switched to mornings and have been doing them ever since and there has been no issue with the switching of evening to morning until my current issue. She stated that they now have a trainers available on Wednesday and Friday and I stated that that's not good for me. She then stated somethis to the effect of take it or leave ir (not her exact words, but same meaning) and they are offering me this and accommodating me and without even a breath or allowing me to respond, she then asked what days I would like and I stated my usual Tuesdays and Thursdays. She then informed me that Mark and Tyler are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 and 6:30. I asked her to please verify because I know for a fact that Tyler is booked n the mornings. She said that she's looking at their booking log and says it's open. She will verify with the GM and get back to me. I did let her know that I feel like I've been treated like crap and I've been getting the run-around. We'll see
2/21/06 - rec'd an email from Ayline requesting an alternate number. I responded with it via email and voice mail.
2/20/06 - 2:25pm Ayline called to let me know that se rec'd the email and she's making a few calls. Because of the time differnce, people are at lunch, but as soon as she receives the inf she needs, she'll let me know. 1:10pm called Aylin Medina - contact for BBB issues at thhe corporate office. She apologized for not returning my call as she just got back into the office. She gaave me her email aylinm@lafitneess.com and I will send all documentation to her. 11:30am - called to see if Ron ext392 made it in and Gilbert transferred me to his voice mail. I left a message with my # and for him to call me 9:15am Aldo answered and stated that Ron Pisano(?) would not be in until 8am. I had him look up my account hoping to get some info. He sees in the notes that Ron was to draft a letter for legal to review, but it doesn't state what the status is. I asked for Aldo to relay to Ron that I should be the very first phone call he makes today or his supervior John Rameriez can call me. I left my number again and left a message on John's voice mail.
2/17/06 - 3:45PM STILL NO CALL. Tried again and spoke with Donna who stated that Ron was not at his desk. I left my number with her to give to Ron and asked her for the main number to try the legal dept 800-600-2540 ext200. Called and was put through to legal and left a message for Christie on v/m. 2:00pm called again for Ron - spoke with David who put me on hold for Ron. David got back on the phone and stated that they were having issues with the system and Ron would have to call me back. I left my number and ext and firmly stated that I needed a call back today! 9:15am - called for Ron (ext#392) to check status on letter. Miguel informed me that Ron's not in until 9am. I asked Miguel to check the status of the letter I am waiting to receive from legal. He pulled up my account and put me on hold. He looked for info and found no info relating to a letter. I asked for Legal's number or extension and was told that they don't take incoming calls. He then transferred me over to Ron's v/m where I left a message. I also called Eileen of the corporate office and left another message.
2/10/06 - sent documentation to credit card company to dispute $1200.00, shoud hear from them within 90 days. Will f/u w/ credit card company in March 06.
2/8/06 - sent email to President of company and Help Me Howard 12:30 - rec'd another call from Ron, he stated that he spoke with his manager and they could 1) put me at another location, 2) freeze my account until someone becomes available, or 3) just keep my account open to use whenever I want to. I then asked if the refund was not an option and he said that it was not. I then asked that I get the options in writing and he refused. I said that I needed something that supercedes the contract I already have and he again refused. I told him that I wanted to speak to his supervisor and he stated that he was on the phone. I told him I would hold and he came back on the line and said okay, they would get the letter out to me. I then asked when to expect it and he said he had no idea. I then told him to put me on hold again and ask his boss. Her came back with a timeframe of one week.12:15 - Ron called and stated that he spoke to the manager at the Coconut Creek location and I can go there. I let him know that it was too far and he stated that it's only 10 miles. I then explained that it would take me 15-20 minutes one way driving time to get there and the W. Boca location is only two minutes from my home. There are plenty of clubs 20 minutes away and the reason I joined the W. Boca club is due to the location. I told him that I can't understand why this is so difficult. Being that they cannot fulfill their obligations under the contract, they should provide me with a refund. He stated that they are trying to work with me by providing me alternative options and I stated that this is not the case. They are just providing me with a way in which they do not have to refund my money. If they had a trainer available in W. Boca, fine, but they do not and therefore are unable to provide the service I paid for. Nowhere in the contract does it say that if no trianer was available that I would be forced to go to an alternate location and I refuse to simply due to time and gas. He stated that he would speak to his manager again and I asked if I would be hearing back from him today. He stated that I would probably hear from his boss. 9:30am spoke with Aldo as Ron was not in yet. No updated info was in the system. He will have Ron call me.
2/7/06 - 4:45 - hadn't rec'd a call back so I called. Miguel answered and asked that I hold. Ron taking longer than expected, Miguel said Ron would call me as soon as he's off the phone.11:30 - Ron called and stated that he spoke with the GM and I was correct, they are booked solid in the mornings. He offered two other locations - Coral Springs and Boynton Beach. I stated that they are too far and asked what should I do now. He stated that was a good question and his tone seemed to have changed (not in a positive way). I asked again for a refund of the unused sessions and let's just end this. He stated that he will speak to his boss and get back to me. 10:30am - Ron called me back and stated that he spoke with Allan the GM of the W. Boca location who stated that he's spoken with me and had three trainers available and I refuned all of them. I advised Ron that I had not spoken to him amd he must be confused. Ron stated that he would speak to the GM again and call me back. 9:30am - spoke with Miguel who stated that I'm on the list for John (manager) to call me and it takes 24-48 hours. He will relay the message again to John.
2/6/06 - 11:30am - called QC and spoke with Ron. I informed him of the message left on my machine. He stated he would check into it and get back to me. 11:00am - called home and retreived a message from Allan, GM of the W. Boca location. He stated that he would not be able to accommodate me as there were no trianers available. 9:00am - spoke with Miguel. I let him know that I was going to have to dispute this with my credit card co and he stated that they don't do refunds and he'd be happy to cancel my account, but I would not get a refund.
Fawn
Boca Raton, Florida
U.S.A.
Click here to read other Rip Off Reports on LA Fitness Body of Change
24 Updates & Rebuttals
Michael
Coral Springs,Florida,
U.S.A.
what to do when getting a trainer
#25UPDATE EX-employee responds
Tue, April 24, 2007
I worked for Body Of Change for 2 years and I have seen alot of people get ripped off. so do the Fallowing and this should help.
1. never give them cash. It is supposed to be against policy to accept cash and there is no way they can give you proof of purchase.
2 I suggest asking who the trainer is certified through and they should cary a card around with them showing who they are cerified with and that card should have a 1800 # to contact the organisation to see if they are current.
3 all trainers are supposed to be CPR, and AED certified so ask for these things.
4. All trainers are supposed to go through contraindications before training.
5 the trainiers should be checking your blood pressure and weight befor training. The weight is recommended by not mandatory. Keep in mind the purpose of checking your wheight is to make sure you are properly hydtrated at the end of the session.
6. It is not a requirerment to check your body fat and measuremnets all the time but is a requirement in the beginning. I say this because some great trainer once told me that the measurements can always be taken improperly and that you will notice results from people that know you, you will notice results from your clothes. you will notice results from the way you feel.
I am not sticking up for Body of Change at all or for any other gym for that matter. As a trainer I just want you all to know how to recognise the facts when looking for a trainer.
when it comes to contracts for personal training
the trainer should have to work for his money month to month. I wish you all well.
Michael
Coral Springs,Florida,
U.S.A.
what to do when getting a trainer
#25UPDATE EX-employee responds
Tue, April 24, 2007
I worked for Body Of Change for 2 years and I have seen alot of people get ripped off. so do the Fallowing and this should help.
1. never give them cash. It is supposed to be against policy to accept cash and there is no way they can give you proof of purchase.
2 I suggest asking who the trainer is certified through and they should cary a card around with them showing who they are cerified with and that card should have a 1800 # to contact the organisation to see if they are current.
3 all trainers are supposed to be CPR, and AED certified so ask for these things.
4. All trainers are supposed to go through contraindications before training.
5 the trainiers should be checking your blood pressure and weight befor training. The weight is recommended by not mandatory. Keep in mind the purpose of checking your wheight is to make sure you are properly hydtrated at the end of the session.
6. It is not a requirerment to check your body fat and measuremnets all the time but is a requirement in the beginning. I say this because some great trainer once told me that the measurements can always be taken improperly and that you will notice results from people that know you, you will notice results from your clothes. you will notice results from the way you feel.
I am not sticking up for Body of Change at all or for any other gym for that matter. As a trainer I just want you all to know how to recognise the facts when looking for a trainer.
when it comes to contracts for personal training
the trainer should have to work for his money month to month. I wish you all well.
Michael
Coral Springs,Florida,
U.S.A.
what to do when getting a trainer
#25UPDATE EX-employee responds
Tue, April 24, 2007
I worked for Body Of Change for 2 years and I have seen alot of people get ripped off. so do the Fallowing and this should help.
1. never give them cash. It is supposed to be against policy to accept cash and there is no way they can give you proof of purchase.
2 I suggest asking who the trainer is certified through and they should cary a card around with them showing who they are cerified with and that card should have a 1800 # to contact the organisation to see if they are current.
3 all trainers are supposed to be CPR, and AED certified so ask for these things.
4. All trainers are supposed to go through contraindications before training.
5 the trainiers should be checking your blood pressure and weight befor training. The weight is recommended by not mandatory. Keep in mind the purpose of checking your wheight is to make sure you are properly hydtrated at the end of the session.
6. It is not a requirerment to check your body fat and measuremnets all the time but is a requirement in the beginning. I say this because some great trainer once told me that the measurements can always be taken improperly and that you will notice results from people that know you, you will notice results from your clothes. you will notice results from the way you feel.
I am not sticking up for Body of Change at all or for any other gym for that matter. As a trainer I just want you all to know how to recognise the facts when looking for a trainer.
when it comes to contracts for personal training
the trainer should have to work for his money month to month. I wish you all well.
Joseph
Hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
My suggestion
#25Consumer Suggestion
Tue, April 24, 2007
This suggestion will take up approximately 6 hours (if that) of your life collectively over the next 2 months, however it is the fastest and most efficient way to get these corporate leaches off your back (and your paycheck!)
The best way to get them off your back, credit report, and credit card is to
#1 Send 3 certified letters (all the same letter) to the local company office in 3 day increments describing exactly what your claim is and clarifying your reasons, provide all proof and all names in this letter.
#2 Contact consumer affairs to file a complaint, referencing the letter you sent with the copy of the delivery receipt
#3 Contact the better business bureau to file a detailed complaint and referencing the letter you sent with the copy of the delivery receipt
#4 Contact your credit card company and be sure to report every detail of all of your work until now to the company's fraud department and insist they investigate your case right away.
#5 Call your local office and confirm they received your letters :). Be persistent and demand answers on the spot, they will answer some inquiries but avoid the main ones and tell you they will call you back, get their info including first and last name, residing office and extension
#6 Call same rep again 3 days later demanding resolution
#7 Call same rep again 3 days later checking status
#8 Call again 3 days later Checking status (refer to the CA and BBB + your CC co)
If he/she is not picking up your calls and not returning your calls I suggest you call every single day and leave at least 1 message each time until you get a response
Leave as many messages as you think is necessary to get this rep to report this issue to his superior
Be irritated and direct in your messages, this communicates determination which they respond to
(Keep in mind the representative is instructed to say no, as many times as it takes but the cardinal rule in customer service: when the customer is very persistent and is NEVER satisfied with partial answers and superficial solutions the only way to get them (the persistent customer) off your back is to offer a satisfactory solution.
#9 Call your credit card company since its been over 10 days since your request to investigate your claim, again insist this is important business that should be handled ASAP
By this time the company in question has received repetitive contact from 2 Legitimate outfits; #1 - the BBB (your saving grace) #2 - your credit card company...Please note that they have already noted your own personal persistence, on the phone and by mail, and now they have to deal with the BBB and Your credit card company.
In short the way they see it, the resources needed to resolve your particular case profitably outweigh their potential profit and just like being cornered in a chess game they will recognize their position and concede, and hey why blame them they have other people they need to rip off, and to them you're a lost cause!
Fight back because what they are doing is stealing and your actions are nothing less than respectable and necessary
Good Luck
Joseph C.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
I'M SO VERY HAPPY THIS HAS HELPED YOU!!
#25Author of original report
Tue, July 25, 2006
Hi all,
Thank you so very much for responding to this post and I truly appreciate your advice and kind words. I'm glad to hear that some of the things I went through can at the very least helpful in some way to you.
There has been nothing more to report just yet. I'm awaiting Consumer Protection to initiate the mediation so I can go after the rest of my $, but at least I have the bulk of it back due to my dispute to the credit card company. I've been looking into other gyms, but I'm not too sure I'm ready for the "sales pitch" right now. I'm still reeling from this experience, but I refuse to let it drop because what they do is completely wrong by walking that fine line that borders on fraud and misrepresentation. I'll get there eventually but I just want to make sure (like a previous post stated)that my experience with LA Fitness and BOC doesn't make me have an attitude with other trainers/gyms that may be the right fit for me.
Well, that's it for now. I do check this site at least once a week and if anything further comes up, I'll be sure to let you know!!
Take care, hang in there and thanks again!!
Lori
Ft. Lauderdale,Florida,
U.S.A.
Oh no! I too, have fallen for their little scams!
#25Consumer Comment
Mon, July 24, 2006
Hi Fawn!
You have really been put through the ringer! I am so sorry! But I understand what you are going through. I too, have fallen for their little scams! I have been through so many awful trainers who are unqualifed and unprofessional!
I am taking your advice and going to the credit card company! Thank you for writting in!
Let's hang in there together. Good luck to you!
Eric
Hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Avoiding Personal Training Problems
#25Consumer Suggestion
Fri, July 21, 2006
As a Certified Personal Trainer, I am truly sorry to hear the problems that people are experiencing trying to get in shape by committing to some personal training. This is very sad. I own a personal training studio in Hollywood FL and almost took a position with the mentioned club and personal training company to supplement my income during the slow season.
Luckily, I found this site by searching on the club to see what I was getting into. I just want to say thank you or I would've wasted a few weeks of my life and my reputation as an ethical trainer.
I also have some advice. My advice is that when you decide to purchase personal training (no matter what gym you go to), don't purchase a package longer than 1 month until you are completely comfortable with your trainer or the group of trainers the company offers no matter how cheap it is. As they say, you get what you pay for. And please make sure that the trainer you work with is certified. Don't be afraid to ask them for proof.
Personal training is just that. PERSONAL. You form a bond with your trainer. So make sure the relationship will work before you make a long term commitment. At my studio, I don't offer anything more than a month until we are both comfortable and unless a client practically begs me to sign up for more. That is how confident I am in retaining a client's business and providing them with top notch service. Other trainer should also be just as confident.
I truly wish you luck. Please don't quit training and living a healthy lifestyle because of this bad experience and please try not to categorize all trainers in a negative way based on how you were treated at LA Fitness. Good luck in your future fitness endeavors.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
THERE'S STILL SOME OUTSTANDING ISSUES
#25Author of original report
Fri, May 26, 2006
Hi all. Well, yes I rec'd the money back for the sessions I didn't use - from the dispute with my cc company (and it wasn't disputed) and yes, I worked it out with Affilated to cancel the contract (they did send me a letter stating this). What remains now is that this has been reported as an outstanding debt on my credit report. d**n!! I am so upset and cannot even begin to explain the time and effort I have had to utilize to bring this to a resolution not to mention the anxiety this entire situation has caused!!
All the letter writing has given me a little hope because the consumer protection agency in the state where the corporate offices are located sent me a letter that this will now go into mediation. Of course, mediation means that BOTH parties have to agree to it. I'm all for it and am asking for the rest of my money at that time(a full refund) as well as a letter to ALL credit reporting agencies that this is not an outstanding debt - that is if BOC/LA Fitness even responds to them and I have a feeling they won't. I've taken the liberty of contacting at least one of the credit reporting agencies and they did take it off, but I am so very tired of having to fight this every time I think it's been resolved. Why do they do this?
Please PLEASE take good notes and fight fight fight. I know (beleive me I know) it's extremely time consuming, but you have to!! Personally, I signed up to better myself, my health and wellbeing. This has certainly not helped with any of those. In fact, only made everything worse. I'll keep you all posted and good luck.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Okay..we are GOOD!!
#25Author of original report
Wed, April 26, 2006
Well, I sent all the doumentation into Affiliated Acceptance and they agreed with me and my credit card company. They terminated my contract and no money is due!! I really think it's over - FINALLY!! I must say that LA Fitness handling the financial aspects of your account instead of Affiliated will more than likely be very frustrating to you. Thank goodness the people at Affiliated have the common sense to realize that there was a problem that was not my doing and acting in a responsible manner. I'm sure that LA Fitness will be great once it gets the bugs worked out, but I will NEVER deal with them again. It's very unfortunate that they felt the need to lie and cover up their inability to provide the services they agreed to provide and want to keep my money all the while. If anyone wants to utilize my documentation to proceed with any action, please feel free. I remain feeling so hurt and taken advantage of by them - not to mention, exhausted by this whole ordeal. Good luck to all and I will check in and hopefully be able to provide some advice for those that are going through similar experiences.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Okay..we are GOOD!!
#25Author of original report
Wed, April 26, 2006
Well, I sent all the doumentation into Affiliated Acceptance and they agreed with me and my credit card company. They terminated my contract and no money is due!! I really think it's over - FINALLY!! I must say that LA Fitness handling the financial aspects of your account instead of Affiliated will more than likely be very frustrating to you. Thank goodness the people at Affiliated have the common sense to realize that there was a problem that was not my doing and acting in a responsible manner. I'm sure that LA Fitness will be great once it gets the bugs worked out, but I will NEVER deal with them again. It's very unfortunate that they felt the need to lie and cover up their inability to provide the services they agreed to provide and want to keep my money all the while. If anyone wants to utilize my documentation to proceed with any action, please feel free. I remain feeling so hurt and taken advantage of by them - not to mention, exhausted by this whole ordeal. Good luck to all and I will check in and hopefully be able to provide some advice for those that are going through similar experiences.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Okay..we are GOOD!!
#25Author of original report
Wed, April 26, 2006
Well, I sent all the doumentation into Affiliated Acceptance and they agreed with me and my credit card company. They terminated my contract and no money is due!! I really think it's over - FINALLY!! I must say that LA Fitness handling the financial aspects of your account instead of Affiliated will more than likely be very frustrating to you. Thank goodness the people at Affiliated have the common sense to realize that there was a problem that was not my doing and acting in a responsible manner. I'm sure that LA Fitness will be great once it gets the bugs worked out, but I will NEVER deal with them again. It's very unfortunate that they felt the need to lie and cover up their inability to provide the services they agreed to provide and want to keep my money all the while. If anyone wants to utilize my documentation to proceed with any action, please feel free. I remain feeling so hurt and taken advantage of by them - not to mention, exhausted by this whole ordeal. Good luck to all and I will check in and hopefully be able to provide some advice for those that are going through similar experiences.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Okay..we are GOOD!!
#25Author of original report
Wed, April 26, 2006
Well, I sent all the doumentation into Affiliated Acceptance and they agreed with me and my credit card company. They terminated my contract and no money is due!! I really think it's over - FINALLY!! I must say that LA Fitness handling the financial aspects of your account instead of Affiliated will more than likely be very frustrating to you. Thank goodness the people at Affiliated have the common sense to realize that there was a problem that was not my doing and acting in a responsible manner. I'm sure that LA Fitness will be great once it gets the bugs worked out, but I will NEVER deal with them again. It's very unfortunate that they felt the need to lie and cover up their inability to provide the services they agreed to provide and want to keep my money all the while. If anyone wants to utilize my documentation to proceed with any action, please feel free. I remain feeling so hurt and taken advantage of by them - not to mention, exhausted by this whole ordeal. Good luck to all and I will check in and hopefully be able to provide some advice for those that are going through similar experiences.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
THE SAGA CONTINIES AND CONTINUES AND.....
#25Author of original report
Sun, April 09, 2006
Well, as you can see by my previous post that yes, my money has been refunded by my credit card company. You also see that I rec'd that letter from their finance co. I did call and was told by Affilated that LA Fitness is now handling all accounts and I was to call them and gave me the #. It was a different # so I was hopeful that I would speak to someone that would actually be able to assist me. To my surprise I wound up speaking with Ron. The same Ron I have spoken to so many times at Quality Control in the past and wouldn't return my calls. As soon as I mentioned my name, he seemed to know me right away. I inquired about the letter, he looked up my account and couldn't find anything. He stated that they have indeed taken over all the accouts and anything I receive from Affiliate, I should ignore. I thanked him, said by goodbyes. I know better!! You cannot trust these people!!
About a week later I checked with Affiliated again and they now informed me - like I thought - that because my account was in dispute, they will be keeping it and I owed the money and that services were available and if I chose not to use them, I still owed. I advised them that this was not the case and that I am more than happy to pay for services if in fact they were available to me and they were not. I let them know who I'd contacted (BBB, Atty Gen., etc.)and offered to provided them with all documentation - I was asked to hold. After being on hold for approximately 7-10 minutes, I was asked to provide the docs and I verified where to send,etc, etc,etc.
As for now, the $ is back in my pocket and am just waiting on this last step as far as Affiliated. I do have a boot camp right around the corner from me that I would love to join, but I just won't if it turns out that this becomes a much larger issue. I am prepared for that and if it should happen and my husband is right by my side (I just love my hubbie, aka best friend)!!
Thanks for all the PT's and "glorified" Mgrs a.k.a.(sales reps) for posting. I'm so sorry that your integrity is challanged and I am certain that if PT is you're field, you will have no problem finding your place!
Take care!!
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
IT'S NOT OVER YET!! THE SAGA CONTINUES!
#25Author of original report
Fri, March 24, 2006
Well, it seems as though I was incorrect. BOC did not refund me. It was my CC company that reversed the charges and now BOC's finance company, Affiliated Acceptance, has sent me today a Notice of Default and Right to Cure letter demanding payment. The letter also states that they have sent me a prior letter that stated that I was notified of my obligation and my right of dispute in this initial communication. I have received no such letter. They have also tacked on late charges and return fees. WILL THIS EVER END? I will have to start from scratch with Affiliated as I still have yet to be scheduled with a trainer. I can't get a hold of anyone at Affiliated now, so I'll have to try on Monday and I'll keep you posted.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
ED, GOOD FOR YOU!!
#25Author of original report
Sat, March 18, 2006
I'm so glad that you've checked this site out and thank you for your feedback. It makes me feel as though I at least saved someone from the aggravation and hummilation that I suffered. I wish I did the same before I signed. Good for you!! Your health is so important and there are so many other choices in personal trainers. Keep your goals strong and good luck to you, sir!!
Ed
Los Angeles,California,
U.S.A.
contract
#25Consumer Comment
Fri, March 17, 2006
Glad you got your refund. (finally!)
I was going to sign up for services but when I heard of the buzz of complaints from others, I backed off....
Ed
Los Angeles,California,
U.S.A.
contract
#25Consumer Comment
Fri, March 17, 2006
Glad you got your refund. (finally!)
I was going to sign up for services but when I heard of the buzz of complaints from others, I backed off....
Ed
Los Angeles,California,
U.S.A.
contract
#25Consumer Comment
Fri, March 17, 2006
Glad you got your refund. (finally!)
I was going to sign up for services but when I heard of the buzz of complaints from others, I backed off....
Ed
Los Angeles,California,
U.S.A.
contract
#25Consumer Comment
Fri, March 17, 2006
Glad you got your refund. (finally!)
I was going to sign up for services but when I heard of the buzz of complaints from others, I backed off....
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
UPDATE!!! MONEY REFUNDED
#25Author of original report
Fri, March 17, 2006
Yahoo!! After all is said and done, they finally refunded my money. Did they notify me in any way? NO. The refund just appeared on my credit card. I called and verified the refund with my cc company that it was indeed a refund from BOC and not a chargeback from my dispute. I'm going to wait 30 days until I let the dispute dept., BBB and atty general know this matter has been resolved, because I have a feeling something else may happen. They are so disorganized that I really wouldn't be surprised if something did.
All I can say is that please, please, please DO NOT SIGN WITH THIS ORGANIZATION. They've wasted way too much of my time and energy. DON'T LET THEM DO IT TO YOU!!
Good luck to all and take care!!
Ryan
Chino,California,
U.S.A.
contract
#25UPDATE EX-employee responds
Tue, March 14, 2006
The contract contains very confusing wording for PT. You should have used the same contract that I used in CA. On the back it states that if a trainer is not available you can be transfered to another gym for training for that session. But, you yourself can not transfer your training to another gym.
Also your sessions will be lost after x amount of months without use. But the Fitness Dir. can get them back if they really want to.
When I sold training packages I would write additonal terms on the back and sign it. There is a lot said to get you to sign up but if it wasn't in writing it doesn't matter. My only advice to anyone who is locked into any gym agreement is to have a doctor state that you are unable to use the gym. Or if you are really angry you can take what ever trainer you get then cancel 24 hours in advance, keep doing this until you get the trainer you want. This how ever will not make the trainers very happy. But, for the money you are paying you should get what you want.
I would ask to see what certs. the trainers at your location hold (NASM is the most sought after cert.) some only take $150 and a little computer time.
The only way to get La Fitness to notice is with $$$$. If you have a lot of people that you know who are members get them all together and cancel thier memberships. Then all you have to do is go to another gym or private trainer with enough people you will get a very good discount. For example when I was transfered for one location to another about 75% of my clients canceled on the spot, believe me La Fitness recieved the message loud and clear.
Good luck!
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Thank you!! I also feel for the trainers..except...
#25Author of original report
Thu, March 09, 2006
I have met with extremely nice trainers, but I was completely lied to by one..Jeniffer. While she was my trainer she did complain quite a bit about being overbooked and lack of communication, corporate, etc. When they hired the new trainer, Sabrina, Jeniffer told me that she wasn't going to be working mornings any longer and that's why she gave me to Sabrina. Sabrina, in the very short time I was trained by her, also complained about the company. All the while Jeniffer was still working the same morning hours. Then I remembered that she stated to me that she didn't like working with men or younger women and preferred to work with older women because they're easier. SHE LIED TO MY FACE
I do feel that some of the trainers are taking alot of heat due to the corporate's lack of ethics. If you could get more of them to write, it might help us all.
Thanks again!!
Ryan
Chino,California,
U.S.A.
La fitness only cares about $$$$$$$$$
#25UPDATE EX-employee responds
Thu, March 09, 2006
I worked for two La fit clubs in California, and I warn everyone don't fall into the scam. Most trainers aren't certified at all and have NO experience!
I have seen at least 3 people seriously hurt by trainers at La fitness. They have no set program, it is up to the trainer do whatever they want. They lie about body fat to keep people going and money coming in.
It is not the trainers fault entirely. I can't remember one check that I was paid in full on. Trainers make a flat $16 per hour that they have a client. If you aren't training you don't get paid. So if a client signs up for 12 hour session a month at $598 the trainer only sees $192 the club makes over $400 off just one person. This company makes money from volume, at one time I had over 30 clients. It worked out to be over $10,000 to the company per month from one trainer.
Don't trust them with your credit card info or cash for that matter. Lets say someone has a maxed out credit card no problem just push it through. Here is another one you sign up for a membership offsite (say a mall) you give them the credit card numder but they require x amount of money up front for the membership, so you give them $50 cash. You just bought that guy dinner because that cash went in his/her pocket.
What about child care or guest fees? If you paid cash it more than likely went in someones pocket. The front desk or anyone can sign you up on a 1-30 day pass. You don't have to pay for it but sometimes people will charge $5-$30 dollars and once again in the pocket it goes.
I left La fitness about 4 months I now have my PT bussiness. I am truely sorry for anyone who signed up for PT at La Fitness, there are some very good trainers there but with a company like La Fitness they don't last long.
Fawn
hollywood,Florida,
U.S.A.
Contact Info - Hope it helps!!
#25Author of original report
Wed, March 08, 2006
Here's who I spoke to:
I'm sure you all know the Quality Control # even though it's useless here it is - 888-357-2474
Main number to corporate - 800-600-2540
Legal - call main # ext#200
Asst in charge of BBB complaints, etc. - Aylin Medina - call her at the main # ext#330, email-alyinm@lafitness.com
President of company - don't have a # yet, but his email is - johnga@lafitness.com
Atty General of the area where corporate is located - 800-808-5318
Call and write. Don't let them get away with what they're doing to us!! Also, I should have put in my last post that you need to begin from the bottom to see the chain of events. I have called and written again and again and ......well, you know. My credit card company seems to be happy with my documentation and I hope to see a resolution soon. I'll make sure to post again.
Thanks and I'll post again with any updates or info I come across.