This should set off your scam sensors, despite the smiles of the staff and their dismissing of this request as a silly formality. Even if they're willing to let you tour the gym later, says McNeil, your payment information shouldn't be an issue until you've told them payment is on your agenda. They won't let you try out the gym. Maybe they're especially sensitive to liability. Maybe you should wonder why.
Staff is absent from the gym floor.
You never know when you'll need a spotter quickly, or when a friendly pointer might keep you from hurting yourself, says Baldwin. Management reserves the right to sell your membership. Some clubs trade memberships like banks trade mortgages. The club gets a lump-sum payment and the buyer gets your monthly dues. All forms of exercise pose some inherent risks.