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For anyone who's ever tried to cancel a Planet Fitness membership and ended up feeling like they were negotiating a hostage release, rejoice: change is here. Starting January 14, 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will implement its "One Click to Cancel" rule, making it easier for consumers to cancel recurring subscriptions. Whether it's a streaming service, meal delivery box, or, yes—a membership, this rule ensures businesses make cancellations as simple as their sign-up process.
The news has sent out a wave of hilarity through the internet since many fans nailed - a gym franchise infamous for its cancellation process.
This is in response to numerous complaints about deceptive or difficult ways to cancel membership, particularly in gyms. Axios reported this week that there have been quite a number of complaints about gyms' tactics, which the gyms long relied on for making cancellations, which are not just frustrating but ridiculous, too.
FTC Chair Lina Khan highlighted the importance of this rule, saying that consumers deserve the "freedom to leave service without jumping through hoops."
The Internet Reacts: Planet Fitness Becomes the Punchline
Social media hasn't been merciful to Planet Fitness and has become the unofficial mascot of complicated cancellations. For years, members have been sharing horror stories about being shuffled between locations, having to mail letters, or even going to the extreme of closing their bank accounts to avoid charges.
Here are some of the best reactions so far:
A declaration of victory from someone who probably has been stuck paying for a membership they never used and now sees hope on the horizon.
A witty jab at Planet Fitness’s ironic marketing slogans, given their infamous history of making cancellations nearly impossible.
A humorous yet drastic solution to escape Planet Fitness charges, highlighting some members' extreme frustration.
A real-life horror story of the endless runaround between locations, emphasizing the unnecessary complexity of canceling.
A sarcastic critique of the gym’s pricing strategy, paired with their notorious cancellation practices, adds insult to injury for members.
Beyond the laughs, the "One Click to Cancel" rule is a major win for consumers. It’s not just about convenience—it’s about fairness. The FTC’s new mandate finally shifts the power back to the customer, holding businesses accountable for shady retention practices.
Gyms may have to rethink their entire business model, which, let’s face it, has partially depended on people forgetting—or failing—to cancel their memberships. Meanwhile, consumers can breathe easier knowing they’re no longer stuck paying for something they don’t use.
As the countdown to January 14 begins, one thing is clear: the internet isn’t letting Planet Fitness off the hook anytime soon. This rule doesn’t just symbolize regulatory reform; it’s a cultural moment, a collective sigh of relief for anyone who’s ever been trapped in a never-ending subscription.
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And as for Planet Fitness? Well, maybe it’s time they channel their energy into simplifying their cancellation policies instead of raising prices. As one fan joked, “This might actually motivate them to produce the third one finally.” Whatever that means, it’s clear the new rule has left businesses scrambling and customers celebrating.
The gym membership struggle isn’t quite over yet—but at least we’re finally heading toward the finish line.
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