Virgin Active not willing to bargain

7sefton

I'm basically just looking for some advice on whether or not I should join Virgin Active without them giving me a discount. Please read on and let me know what you reckon...

I've been in touch with a Virgin Active gym in London for about two weeks after having a free trial. I really like the gym and will use it, so am ready to join. But I don't want to pay any more than I have to, and have heard gyms are prime targets for getting a discount - problem is, I'm not having much luck!

- I am entitled to the 18-25 membership option because of my age, which is about £20 cheaper than the standard membership and only comes with a 6 month contract (instead of 12). However it does not allow use of other clubs, something I would definitely want due to my work location and has a joining fee of £30.

- The next option is a 12 month membership of around £80 per month with a £25 joining fee. This is what I would have to go for if I wanted multi-club membership. In February they are giving 12 months for the price of 10, but this seems to be a long-running offer so doesn't seem very special.

In various telephone calls they've made to me, I've said:
- I've had a better offer at LA Fitness
- Reminded them of my age
- Have offered to pay the year's membership up front for a discount.

They've been really friendly but simply won't budge, saying they 'treat all members the same so don't haggle on prices'. Not even a reduction in the joining fee! Is this pretty standard practice, or does anyone else know any tricks to help drive a bargain. A friend suggests I wait until the end of the month to see if they give me a call with an offer, but I really want to join now!

Just thought I'd ask for some last-minute advice before giving in and paying.

Thanks! :beer:

Art_2

If you are looking at £80 a month this is a full membership including tennis (actually £79). You wouldn't get tennis at LA Fitness.

I am a member at Virgin Active. I am pleased with their facilities. They don't offer willy-nilly discounts to new members which is a good thing. They protect their loyal members in this way.

AFAIK the annual payment does work out cheaper.