topic Re: Gym memberships & credit cards in Credit Cards

Gym memberships & credit cards

red259 — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 01:45:32 GMT

Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 02:26:07 GMT

@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?

I'm reminded of Magnises...one of the e-wallet/card-in-a-card/more-sizzle-than-steak $500 AF-ish luxury "cards" from a while back. It was marketed towards NYCers and one of the claimed perks was supposed to be a free (or discounted?) session of physical training at some high-end gym or something like that.

More seriously...I use a nice municipal gym in the suburbs, and can't suggest how to deal with NYSC other than "don't, if practical". I pay about as much for an all-facilities, all-hours municipal gym membership as I would for a limited membership at the closest NYSC location (which has no pool).

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 15:25:29 GMT

I don't know of any CCs with gym discounts... but if you have any interest in a Y membership, they offer a 20% discount if you have an NYC ID, and they're waiving signup fees through February 15th!

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

NRB525 — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 15:28:43 GMT

@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?

Cash+ has a 5% category in "Gyms/Fitness Centers" you can select.

Your gym is constantly trying to get new members to sign up. Your furiosity should be directed to them, nicely, to ask about a "retention bonus" or getting better pricing. They would rather keep you as a paying customer than lose your business. They deal with people dropping memberships all the time, and there are marketing costs to get new members.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 15:53:37 GMT

@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?

While I was still living in New York a Planet Fitness in the upstate gave me 15% off when they saw my USAA Credit Card. Never hurts to ask

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

thom02099 — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 17:24:41 GMT

Talking to a Manager about getting a match on the new membership fee would be one suggestion. Worst s/he can say is "no".

If you don't have it already, ask about setting up autopay, in exchange for a discount. Many businesses do this, to keep a good customer and to enhance a steady income stream.

Shop around for a new gym, one that is more consumer friendly as far as fees are concerned.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

red259 — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 20:25:30 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
I don't know of any CCs with gym discounts... but if you have any interest in a Y membership, they offer a 20% discount if you have an NYC ID, and they're waiving signup fees through February 15th!

That is an interesting idea since the 92Y is near me. Update: Hmm go figure the 92Y is a Jewish center not associated with the YMCA. Talk about a misleading name.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

red259 — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 20:39:42 GMT

@NRB525 wrote:
@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?
Cash+ has a 5% category in "Gyms/Fitness Centers" you can select.

Your gym is constantly trying to get new members to sign up. Your furiosity should be directed to them, nicely, to ask about a "retention bonus" or getting better pricing. They would rather keep you as a paying customer than lose your business. They deal with people dropping memberships all the time, and there are marketing costs to get new members.

Actually its more than just the fact they are charging me $30 a month more than new members. With only two weeks notice they annouced, by posting a sign in the lobby mind you, that they are closing my gym branch on 1/16/16. This is right after they charged the monthly fee for Jan. The branch I go to is a flagship location which is large. They gave me two further away options that I can redesignate my home branch. Both of these locations are smaller and will be extra crowded now to accomodate all the people relocating from the closing branch. For the past several months there has been some broken equipment they have not fixed as well. I just found out they have known for months this was happening and just did not announce it to members. They actually let people keep coming in and enrolling in a new memberships without a word! Needless to say I am uncomfortable with the way this chain has conducted their business, so I'm unsure I even want to stay at all. If I did there is no way I would do so unless they offered me the new rate and without a contract. Its just tough finding a decent gym option in NYC at an ideal price point. Cash+ is put out by which lender?

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 21:01:58 GMT

US Bank for Cash+

If you decide to move on to something else, I'd consider fighting for January back. Or a few free months (assuming they wouldn't refund you) at one of hte alternate locations so you have time to find your new solution. (I think places are more willing to give something for free than to refund money.)

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 21:14:12 GMT

Aw the Gym Fee ... mine were at $34 per month. Now my company health insurance would pay $20 per month as long as I used the gym (12 times in the month). Then there are cards like the US Bank Cash+ VS that will give you 5% on rewards per month for gym fees. Food for thought.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

LadyJEsq — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 23:26:32 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@NRB525 wrote:
@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?
Cash+ has a 5% category in "Gyms/Fitness Centers" you can select.

Your gym is constantly trying to get new members to sign up. Your furiosity should be directed to them, nicely, to ask about a "retention bonus" or getting better pricing. They would rather keep you as a paying customer than lose your business. They deal with people dropping memberships all the time, and there are marketing costs to get new members.
Actually its more than just the fact they are charging me $30 a month more than new members. With only two weeks notice they annouced, by posting a sign in the lobby mind you, that they are closing my gym branch on 1/16/16. This is right after they charged the monthly fee for Jan. The branch I go to is a flagship location which is large. They gave me two further away options that I can redesignate my home branch. Both of these locations are smaller and will be extra crowded now to accomodate all the people relocating from the closing branch. For the past several months there has been some broken equipment they have not fixed as well. I just found out they have known for months this was happening and just did not announce it to members. They actually let people keep coming in and enrolling in a new memberships without a word! Needless to say I am uncomfortable with the way this chain has conducted their business, so I'm unsure I even want to stay at all. If I did there is no way I would do so unless they offered me the new rate and without a contract. Its just tough finding a decent gym option in NYC at an ideal price point. Cash+ is put out by which lender?

While I can understand your disgust, I would do research on any potential new gyms before you sign up. I think all major gym chains have horrid service and/or reviews, and it's really a matter of your tolerence level. Have you thought about just signing up again with one of the new promotions?

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 23:54:19 GMT

@red259 wrote:
@Anonymous wrote:
I don't know of any CCs with gym discounts... but if you have any interest in a Y membership, they offer a 20% discount if you have an NYC ID, and they're waiving signup fees through February 15th!
That is an interesting idea since the 92Y is near me. Update: Hmm go figure the 92Y is a Jewish center not associated with the YMCA. Talk about a misleading name.

Well, I wouldn't exactly say it's misleading... it's just that the 92nd St. Y is a YMHA, not a YMCA. They have a gym that I've heard decent things about, especially the pool, so if it's close to you maybe it's worth looking into even without the 20% discount.

There are a few YMCAs in Manhattan, but it sounds like they're not as convenient for you... still, could be a good option as opposed to NYSC.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

red259 — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 00:24:53 GMT

@Anonymous wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@Anonymous wrote:
I don't know of any CCs with gym discounts... but if you have any interest in a Y membership, they offer a 20% discount if you have an NYC ID, and they're waiving signup fees through February 15th!
That is an interesting idea since the 92Y is near me. Update: Hmm go figure the 92Y is a Jewish center not associated with the YMCA. Talk about a misleading name.
Well, I wouldn't exactly say it's misleading... it's just that the 92nd St. Y is a YMHA, not a YMCA. They have a gym that I've heard decent things about, especially the pool, so if it's close to you maybe it's worth looking into even without the 20% discount.

There are a few YMCAs in Manhattan, but it sounds like they're not as convenient for you... still, could be a good option as opposed to NYSC.

Yea no YMCA's in my immediate area. I've read the 92Y gym is on the small side. I have a pool membership which provides olympic size pool, otherwise 92Y would be higher on my list. There is a gym called Edgee in the same area that has good reviews for their weights which is primarily where my main need is. I'll do a free trial and see what I think. I was hoping maybe one of these travel cards would have a deal with a national gym chain for when people have to travel, so they have access to gyms in major cities when they are on the road.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

red259 — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 00:36:48 GMT

@LadyJEsq wrote:
@red259 wrote:
@NRB525 wrote:
@red259 wrote:
Throwing this out there has I just discovered NYSC is charging me $30 more per month than they are charging new members. I'm furious to say the least in addition to a whole host of other issues. Being based in the NYC area I am wondering if there are any credit cards out there that have some sort of deal with some gyms where the credit card members get reduced rates, like how some gyms give employees of certain companies discounted rates. Anyone come across this?
Cash+ has a 5% category in "Gyms/Fitness Centers" you can select.

Your gym is constantly trying to get new members to sign up. Your furiosity should be directed to them, nicely, to ask about a "retention bonus" or getting better pricing. They would rather keep you as a paying customer than lose your business. They deal with people dropping memberships all the time, and there are marketing costs to get new members.
Actually its more than just the fact they are charging me $30 a month more than new members. With only two weeks notice they annouced, by posting a sign in the lobby mind you, that they are closing my gym branch on 1/16/16. This is right after they charged the monthly fee for Jan. The branch I go to is a flagship location which is large. They gave me two further away options that I can redesignate my home branch. Both of these locations are smaller and will be extra crowded now to accomodate all the people relocating from the closing branch. For the past several months there has been some broken equipment they have not fixed as well. I just found out they have known for months this was happening and just did not announce it to members. They actually let people keep coming in and enrolling in a new memberships without a word! Needless to say I am uncomfortable with the way this chain has conducted their business, so I'm unsure I even want to stay at all. If I did there is no way I would do so unless they offered me the new rate and without a contract. Its just tough finding a decent gym option in NYC at an ideal price point. Cash+ is put out by which lender?
While I can understand your disgust, I would do research on any potential new gyms before you sign up. I think all major gym chains have horrid service and/or reviews, and it's really a matter of your tolerence level. Have you thought about just signing up again with one of the new promotions?

I will consider renewing if they match the current low rate and do not require a contract.Otherwise I am walking. I would need to try out the new location, which my current membership allows to make sure its suitable (ie not over-crowded or filled with broken equipment or lacking equipment I need). The way my current gym has been run for the past several months I'm not sure they deserve another chance and they like some other chains do have horrific business records especially with how they make it soo difficult for people to cancel their membership. I have an amex linked to my account with them now and if I cancel the membership I think I may contact amex in advance of the normal billing date to make sure they do not approve any new charges, because I have heard many horror stories of peoplem continuing to get charged after closing accounts.

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

LadyJEsq — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 01:59:53 GMT

@red259 wrote:
While I can understand your disgust, I would do research on any potential new gyms before you sign up. I think all major gym chains have horrid service and/or reviews, and it's really a matter of your tolerence level. Have you thought about just signing up again with one of the new promotions?
I will consider renewing if they match the current low rate and do not require a contract.Otherwise I am walking. I would need to try out the new location, which my current membership allows to make sure its suitable (ie not over-crowded or filled with broken equipment or lacking equipment I need). The way my current gym has been run for the past several months I'm not sure they deserve another chance and they like some other chains do have horrific business records especially with how they make it soo difficult for people to cancel their membership. I have an amex linked to my account with them now and if I cancel the membership I think I may contact amex in advance of the normal billing date to make sure they do not approve any new charges, because I have heard many horror stories of peoplem continuing to get charged after closing accounts.

Yeah, I've heard horror stories with regard to cancelling memberships too. I have a decent lifetime contract, so I don't expect I'll ever cancel my membership, but if I did, I would certainly take similar precautions. A nice gym, one that isn't too crowded, has all the necessary equipment you desire and keeps said equipment operational, are truly hard to find (sadly). Good luck!

Re: Gym memberships & credit cards

Anonymous — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 12:14:07 GMT

@Spider15 wrote:
Aw the Gym Fee ... mine were at $34 per month. Now my company health insurance would pay $20 per month as long as I used the gym (12 times in the month). Then there are cards like the US Bank Cash+ VS that will give you 5% on rewards per month for gym fees. Food for thought.

This is good information for me as I have a $25 fee through Highmark that gives me access to virtually any gym in the area. However, I've been auto-paying on my QS for 1.5% - I have Cash+ so next time we can change preferences I'll defiitely choose the one for gym fees. Thanks for the heads up!