While you may think that gym membership prices are constant, if you pay attention you'll notice a wide range of differences between the perks and prices in March from those in December. To get the most out of your gym membership, waiting until the right moment is necessary. You can often get free amenities thrown in with your membership, certain fees waived and even a cheaper rate if you purchase your gym membership at the right time.
Beat the January Rush
December is a smart time to purchase your gym membership. Gyms are getting ready for the January rush, but they also want big numbers for the end of the year, Howard Brodsky, chief executive of New York Health & Racquet Club points out in the "The New York Times." Just like other retail outlets, gyms may have certain numbers they need to hit, so it's a good time to negotiate the best price on a gym membership. Most gyms expect the New Year's resolution-motivated members to join near the end of December, so you may find deals and special offers that are meant to help entice new members to the gym.
June Slowdown
By the time June rolls around, gym membership sales begin to slow. As the weather improves and outdoor fitness is possible, gyms lose much of their business to jogging and biking outside. This makes June an ideal time to pick up a cheaper gym membership. Since sales are slow, gym salespeople may be more willing to negotiate and drive down your gym membership pricing in order to get you to workout inside instead of outside.
Asking for Perks
Whether you purchase your gym membership in December or June, you may forfeit a better price for more perks at the gym. For instance, try asking for guest passes for some of your friends, or free daycare to be added to your membership. While a gym salesperson may be hesitant to give you a better price on your membership, if you wait until the gym has promotions to entice new members you may be able to score more for your membership, even if the price is the same. Just ensure that all of your terms and conditions are spelled out in your contract before you sign.
Negotiating the Price
You can get a better deal on your gym membership anytime of the year by negotiating your price. Even large gym chains want your business so badly that the salespeople will often work with you to give you a membership price that you can afford. Let the salesperson know that you're shopping around for a gym and you may find that the membership fee is suddenly lessened. No prices are fixed, so it doesn't hurt to ask for a better price, whether you're purchasing a membership in peak season or during a lull.
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