If this is the year in which you plan to take control of your weight and fitness, Better Business Bureau (BBB) has advice that can help you evaluate fitness products or health clubs, avoid scams and find reliable businesses. BBB receives thousands of complaints each year about weight loss services, gyms, and health products. Common complaints include products that never arrived, results that were not as advertised, products that caused an adverse reaction or problems canceling a gym membership.
The Federal Trade Commission took action in 2016 against nine firms selling bogus weight loss products ranging from green coffee to dietary supplements. Consumers lost millions of dollars to these scams.
Kim States, BBB Serving Denver/Boulder’s president and CEO says, “We applaud consumers who take the initiative to live healthier lifestyles, get in shape or lose weight, and many reputable and trustworthy businesses can assist in that effort. We aim to help consumers find those trustworthy businesses and products, and avoid fraudulent claims or scams.”
Before starting a weight-loss program, BBB advises consumers to consult a doctor for an assessment of over-all health risks. The doctor may recommend options for losing weight or exercise programs that fit your health status and your ability to stick with a program, which is a good first step, even before seeking a product or gym.
If your doctor prescribes a medication to assist in weight loss, ask about complications or side effects. Tell the doctor about other medications or over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements you may be taking, and report any changes you experience after taking the medication to the doctor.
Before you invest in diet or fitness plans or products, BBB offers these six tips:
Avoid products that claim to help you lose weight without diet or exercise. Doctors, dieticians and other experts agree that losing weight takes work. Pass up any product that promises miraculous results without any effort.
Determine your fitness goals. It’s hard work to lose weight. Find a program you can stick with, and preferably one that you enjoy. Does a weight loss plan require you to buy special foods? Does your local health club or exercise facility offer hours that fit your schedule? Can you cancel if you move or find that the program doesn’t meet your needs?
Visit the facility before joining. Check on cleanliness, adequacy of space, machines and instructors. Ask if you can try the facility out before you join. If the facility closes, can you transfer your membership to another facility?
Read the entire contract. What’s included in the monthly fee and what will cost you extra? What is the total cost, including enrollment fees and finance charges? Ask the health club about “joining” or enrollment fees, and if or when they increase. Understand your rights to cancel your contract before you sign it.
Check with BBB before you buy. Anyone can check a company’s BBB Business Profile at www.bbb.org or by calling 303-758-2100. Profiles include customer reviews, complaint history and whether the complaints were resolved.
Report scams to BBB. Visit bbb.org/scamtracker to tell us if you spot a business or offer that sounds like an illegal scheme or fraud.