False cancellation information given

I joined Virgin Active this thinking I would be able to attend most of my time. however when I signed the contract I asked the agent about the cancellation process. he told me that I could cancel anytime I want and they would not be any penalties. and now my Job is so demanding I do not have time to Gym, I have not attended Gym for the past two months. I called to cancel but I was told that I need to Pay a full Two year contract amount, I mean is this a \cell phone or bed"contract. I do not own anything from Virgin Active. why should I pay two year full \""subscription\"" amount for not going to Gym."""