In July 2025, the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) click-to-cancel rule will take effect. This new rule, designed to make canceling easier for consumers, could reshape the way gyms, fitness studios, and health and fitness facilities manage subscriptions and memberships.
As part of the FTC’s crackdown on negative option marketing and deceptive practices, the rule requires that anyone who signs up online must also be able to cancel online, using the same method, with no added friction. This means fitness centers and clubs will need to reevaluate their cancellation policies, internal workflows, and member communication practices.
How the FTC Click-to-Cancel Rule Impacts the Fitness Industry
The FTC’s click-to-cancel rule, while addressing growing concerns from nearly 70 consumer complaints per day about confusing or hard-to-find cancellation paths, also presents an opportunity for the fitness industry. This is especially relevant for the fitness industry, where many clubs rely on subscriptions and auto-renewals to maintain revenue. The rule could lead to a more transparent and consumer-friendly industry, enhancing trust and customer satisfaction.
Under the rule:
- Consumers must be able to cancel a subscription using the same method they used to sign up.
- The process must be as easy as signing up—no extra hoops just to cancel.
- Clubs must clearly disclose all material terms, including billing information, auto-renewals, and any negative option feature. A negative option feature refers to a situation where a member’s subscription or membership is automatically renewed unless they take specific action to cancel.
Although the rule was recently challenged, the U.S. Court of Appeals struck down the Federal Trade Commission’s prior enforcement of the rule, creating uncertainty. Still, the FTC is cracking down on businesses using unfair or deceptive practices, and this rule remains on the radar for fitness business owners.
What Gyms Should Do to Stay Compliant
If you operate a gym, fitness studio, or health club, now is the time to prepare. The click-to-cancel rule applies to almost all negative option programs and directly affects how members cancel subscriptions and memberships. Here’s how to get started:
1. Review Your Membership Agreements
Ensure all contracts include clear, prominent disclosure of membership terms, auto-renewals, and any potential price increases. These material terms are central to the FTC’s guidance and must be readily accessible to members.
2. Make Canceling Easy for Consumers
Whether through your website or mobile app, the cancellation process must be obvious and quick. The FTC wants to make it as easy for people to cancel subscriptions as it is to sign up. This means embedding a simple cancel option that does not redirect users unnecessarily or obscure next steps.
3. Use Automation to Streamline the Process
At Jonas Fitness, we’ve developed flexible solutions for clubs of all sizes:
- Website Forms: Add a custom cancel form to your site that notifies your staff instantly.
- Compete Messaging: Enable a seamless, trackable cancellation workflow within the Member Portal or app.
- Third-Party Solutions: Work with channel partners for a fully automated experience that includes options for freezes or alternate plans.
While the FTC’s click-to-cancel rule requires transparency, it doesn’t prevent clubs from offering alternatives like freezing a gym membership, as long as it’s presented as a choice, not a barrier.
Why It Matters for the Fitness Business
This isn’t just about compliance. The click-to-cancel rule is an opportunity to build trust and improve the member experience. With the FTC targeting negative option rule violations, your club’s ability to show good faith in handling cancellations will set you apart from competitors.
For gyms and fitness centers, clear cancellation policies are no longer optional—they’re a part of doing ethical, modern business. Whether you’re part of a large chain or a local independent club, your commitment to providing an easy-to-navigate cancellation experience will play a major role in retention and reputation. This is a responsibility we all share in the fitness industry.
Final Thoughts
The FTC’s click-to-cancel rule—part of broader rule-making efforts around subscriptions—reflects a growing push to protect consumers and eliminate deceptive practices. While some businesses view it as a burden, others see it as a chance to improve workflows and customer satisfaction.
At Jonas Fitness, we’re here to help you stay compliant and confident. Our tools are designed to simplify the cancellation experience, notify staff in real time, and give members peace of mind that their request has been acknowledged. You’re not alone in this, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Do you have questions about implementing a compliant click-to-cancel solution for your gym? Contact us at jfiaeteam@jonasfitness.com or visit jonasfitness.com to get started.
