As the person paying for contract I cannot cancel? Really?

As the person PAYING for my wife's gym contract, I was not allowed to cancel her contract once it expired and went to auto-renewal. My wife was told to call or e-mail and cancel the contract. As a matter of principle I find this unacceptable. The contract includes me - as the person being debited. I was also told by the supervisor, that should I cancel at the bank, I'b be in breach of contract.

Please people - beware of this bunch. Based on the number of negative reviews I'd say there's a trend. Do not join them.