The staff try, but head office is a money-grabbing waste of time

I am going to talk specifically about the Heuweloord gym, as that has been my experience.

I have no problem with the staff - they have been nothing but accommodating (as much as they are allowed to be, given that everything has been moved to the call centre). However, the equipment is aged (some have been repaired, finally), and we don't have nearly enough equipment for the amount of people that are signed up.

I have given notice to cancel my 2 year contract (I'm about 18 months into my contract). First, you have to give a 4-month notice period (or pay the full amount up front), during which you can use the gym. Fair enough. However, with 3 months left on my notice period the 10% increase came in. No warning, just happened. This happens regularly, by the way. I've had one SMS in the nearly 2 years I've been with them.

You are also expected to pay an equipment levy annually, to the tune of one month's fees. Mine comes off in December, and yes, I am expected to pay this amount even though it will be with my last payment to them.

What the heck? I've literally told you I'm not going to be here next year, but I still have to pay the levy for the next year? I don't think so.

Also, I tried to change my contract to a Discovery Vitality contract when I joined Vitality earlier this year. "No problem sir, that will be R699 up front". Again, what the heck? I already have a contract with you!

I don't expect a reply from Planet Fitness. This is the way. However, if I can warn others away from falling into the arms of these money-grabbing corporates then I will at least sleep better at night.