SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - If you're thinking about joining a gym for the summer, you'll want to take a close look at the fine print in your contract because not doing so could lead to a big headache long after you leave.
Sarah Lacombe is having one of those right now. She tore the ACL in her knee playing lacrosse and will be stuck on the sidelines for some time.
"I have to pay month-to-month until my year is up," she said.
Lacombe thought her injury would get her out of her contract with LA Fitness. After all, that's how she said the employee who signed her up explained it -- move 25 miles, injury or death.
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However, the fine print says differently. When it comes to injury, only a disability could get Lacobme out of the deal with no strings attached.
"The other option is a buyout, which is half of what I still owe, which is near a thousand dollars," Lacombe said.
It's a common problem with gym memberships.
The website Credit.com says before signing up, ask about penalties if you cancel, don't believe verbal promises from an employee, and pay by check or credit card. Don't give them your bank account number in case there's a dispute.
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Lacombe ultimately got the break she was looking for, as a spokeswoman for LA Fitness said the company let her out of her contract.
