Looking for a way to get in shape?  You might be considering joining a health spa or exercise gym.  While many people regularly use and enjoy these facilities, others have filed complaints with the Department of Consumer Affairs concerning high pressure sales tactics, misrepresentation about facilities and services, and failure to honor cancellation and refund clauses.

    Complaints also have been filed about health clubs that have gone out of business.  Consumers can avoid disappointment if they find out about the health club's fees, contractual requirements and facilities before they join.   Consider visiting the spa during the time you plan to use it to see if it is overcrowded.  You should also ask if there is a trial period during which services can be sampled free of charge, if there are limits on the number of people who can join and the number of members the club has.

    Some spas ask consumers to join right away and offer them special rates as an incentive.  Before you sign the contract, take it home and read it carefully to make sure of the following:

• Is everything the salesman promised written in the contract?  If a problem arises after you join, the written in the contract, do not count on its being resolved in your favor.

• Can you get a refund if you need to cancel?  Fitness centers are required by law to allow cancellation on proof of a physical disability or a permanent move to a residence with a distance of more than 50 miles.

    For other reasons, the facility might have no obligation to let you cancel.  This is especially important if you choose long-term membership.

• Can you join for a short time?  It might be to your advantage to pay a little more money and join for a few "trial" months.  That way, if you are not enjoying the membership or using it as much as you planned, you will not be committed to years of payments.

• Can you afford the payments?  Take into consideration the finance charges and annual percentage rates when you figure the total cost of your membership.

    Be wary of automatic monthly billing to your charge card or debit from a checking account.  These are easier to start than to stop.   Talk with other current members regarding their satisfaction.  Before joining, contact the Department of Consumer Affairs to find out if complaints have been received about the health club and what state laws regulate them.

    Finally, remember you are obligating yourself to pay for the service - whether you use it or not.  Don't be pressured into signing.

    No one ever regrets the contracts they didn't sign.