How to Get the Best LA Fitness Membership Deals

Are you looking for the best ways to get LA Fitness membership deals? Securing a gym membership at a reduced cost can be a game-changer for your fitness journey and your wallet.

By strategically timing your membership, negotiating with sales representatives, utilizing corporate or group discounts, pre-paying for your membership, and exploring third-party providers, you can significantly lower the cost of your LA Fitness membership.

Taking advantage of family add-on deals, student and senior discounts, and free trial periods can further maximize your savings.

Read on to discover the insider tips and tricks to get the most bang for your buck at LA Fitness.

How to Get the Best LA Fitness Membership Deals?

Wait for Special Promotions

Waiting for special promotions is a strategic approach to securing a gym membership at a significantly reduced cost.

Gyms frequently offer promotions during key times of the year when they anticipate increased interest in fitness.

Key Times for Promotions

  • New Year: This is perhaps the most common time for gym promotions. Many people set fitness-related resolutions at the beginning of the year, and gyms are keen to attract this new wave of customers with enticing deals.
  • Spring: As summer approaches, people start to think about getting in shape for the warmer months. Gyms often launch promotions in spring to attract those looking to start a new fitness regime.
  • Late Summer: Another strategic time is late summer, particularly around September, when people are returning to their routines after summer vacations.
  • Black Friday/Cyber Monday: These are major retail holidays that have spread to service industries, including fitness centers. Gyms might offer significant discounts on memberships or waived enrollment fees during this time.
  • Holiday Seasons: During the holiday season, gyms might offer special discounts as people start thinking about their health after the holiday excesses.

Tips for Making the Most of Promotions

  • Set Alerts: Many gyms advertise their promotions via their websites, social media, or email newsletters. You can sign up for updates or set alerts for specific gyms so you’re immediately notified when a promotion starts.
  • Ask Directly: If you’re interested in a specific gym, it doesn’t hurt to ask them directly if they have any upcoming promotions. Sometimes, sales representatives can give you a heads-up or even offer you the promotional rate in advance.
  • Compare Gyms: Use promotional periods as an opportunity to compare different gyms. Different facilities might offer competing promotions, so checking out multiple options could result in better overall savings.
  • Read the Terms: Promotions can sometimes come with specific terms and conditions. Make sure you understand any commitment period, cancellation policy, or other stipulations that might come with a promotional offer.
  • Negotiate: If you miss a promotion, try negotiating to see if the gym can offer you the promotional rate. This is especially effective at the end of the month when sales teams are trying to meet targets.

Negotiate with Sales Representatives

Negotiating with sales representatives can be an effective way to secure a better deal on a gym membership. Here are some tips and strategies for negotiating successfully:

  • Do Your Research: Before you approach a gym, research their standard rates and any promotional offers they’ve had recently. Also, look into the pricing and promotions of competing gyms in the area. This information gives you a solid foundation for negotiation, as you can reference these details during your discussion.
  • Visit at the Right Time: Timing can play a crucial role in negotiations. Visiting a gym towards the end of the month or fiscal quarter can be advantageous, as sales representatives may be under pressure to meet their targets and more willing to offer discounts.
  • Express Interest but Stay Non-Committal: Show that you are interested in joining but also mention that you are considering other gyms. This creates a sense of competition and can make the sales representative more eager to offer you a compelling deal to secure your membership.
  • Ask for Specific Concessions: Instead of a general request for a “better deal,” ask for specific concessions. For example, request a waiver of the initiation fee, a lower monthly rate, extra months added to your membership, or free access to premium classes or amenities. Being specific can lead to more fruitful negotiations.
  • Mention Competitors’ Offers: If you’ve found better offers from other gyms, don’t hesitate to bring this up. Knowing they might lose a potential customer to a competitor can encourage the gym to match or better the competing offer.
  • Be Willing to Walk Away: If the negotiations aren’t going your way, be prepared to walk away. Sometimes, this can lead to the sales representative offering you a last-minute deal. If not, you might actually find a better offer elsewhere.
  • Consider Longer Commitments: If you’re open to it, suggest your willingness to commit to a longer-term membership in exchange for a lower monthly rate. Gyms value customer retention and might offer a significant discount for your long-term commitment.
  • Get Offers in Writing: Once you reach an agreement, make sure to get all the details in writing. This prevents any misunderstandings about the terms of your membership and ensures the gym honors the agreed-upon deal.
  • Use Empathy and Build Rapport: While it’s important to be firm and clear in your requests, maintaining a friendly and respectful demeanor helps build rapport. Sales representatives are more likely to go the extra mile for customers they like and want to help.
  • Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees, such as annual maintenance fees or charges for specific services. Knowing all the costs upfront will help you make a better decision and avoid surprises later.

Corporate or Group Discounts

Corporate or group discounts are a fantastic way to reduce the cost of gym memberships.

These discounts are often negotiated between gyms and organizations (such as employers, educational institutions, or associations) to provide memberships at reduced rates for a large group of people.

  • Check with Your Employer: Many companies offer wellness programs that include discounted gym memberships as a part of their employee benefits package. Ask your HR department if your company has such a partnership with LA Fitness or any other local gyms. These corporate discounts can sometimes also extend to family members.
  • Explore Alumni Associations: If you are a college or university alum, check with your alumni association to see if they have negotiated any gym membership discounts for alumni. Educational institutions often have a variety of benefits for their alumni, and fitness center discounts are common.
  • Inquire at Professional Organizations: Members of certain professional groups or industry organizations often enjoy benefits such as discounted gym memberships. If you’re a member of any professional organization, check their benefits section or contact the administration to inquire about possible gym membership deals.
  • Look into Insurance Benefits: Some health insurance plans offer fitness benefits, including discounts on gym memberships or even free passes as a part of their effort to promote healthier lifestyle choices among their insured. Review your health insurance benefits or speak with your insurance provider.
  • Utilize Government and Military Discounts: Government employees and military personnel often qualify for special gym membership rates. These discounts are a way of acknowledging their service and providing them with additional benefits. LA Fitness and other gyms typically have these offers listed on their website, or you can ask directly.
  • Join as a Group: If your workplace doesn’t offer a corporate discount, you might still be able to negotiate one by organizing a group of coworkers who are all interested in joining the same gym. Gyms are usually open to negotiating group rates if it means getting multiple new members at once.
  • Community Groups: Sometimes local community groups or clubs can also arrange for gym discounts for their members. If you are part of a local community organization, consider discussing with the management about arranging a group discount.
  • Ask for Non-Profit Discounts: If you work for a non-profit organization, some gyms offer special rates as they recognize the community service performed by non-profit employees. It’s worth asking about this when you speak with gym representatives.

Pre-Pay for Membership

Pre-paying for a gym membership can be an excellent strategy to save money in the long run, especially if you’re committed to staying fit and utilizing the gym regularly.

Advantages of Pre-Paying for Gym Membership

  • Cost Savings: Many gyms offer significant discounts for memberships paid in advance. By paying for a year or more upfront, you can often avoid monthly processing fees and enjoy a lower overall rate.
  • Price Lock-In: Pre-paying allows you to lock in current rates, protecting you against any future price increases during the period of your membership.
  • Reduced Hassle: By paying upfront, you eliminate the monthly task of remembering to pay your gym bill, which can streamline your finances and reduce administrative stress.
  • Commitment Incentive: Having already invested in a long-term membership can serve as a strong motivation to regularly attend the gym, helping you stick to your fitness goals.

Things to Consider Before Pre-Paying

  • Financial Commitment: Pre-paying for a gym membership requires a significant upfront cost. Ensure that this fits within your budget without straining other financial obligations.
  • Stability of the Gym: Consider the gym’s business stability. There’s always a risk that the gym could close down or change management, which could affect membership terms. Research the gym’s reputation and read reviews to gauge its stability and service quality.
  • Your Usage Rate: Reflect on how often you realistically plan to use the gym. If your lifestyle changes frequently or you’re unsure about your long-term usage, a long-term commitment might not be the best option.
  • Cancellation Policy: Understand the gym’s cancellation policy for prepaid memberships. Some gyms offer partial refunds for the unused portion of your membership, but policies vary widely.
  • Trial First: If possible, try out the gym first with a shorter-term membership or a free trial. This helps ensure that the gym meets your needs and that you enjoy the environment before making a long-term financial commitment.
  • Negotiate Additional Benefits: When negotiating a pre-paid membership, ask if additional perks can be included, such as free guest passes, personal training sessions, or access to premium facilities.

Look for Discounts through Third-Party Providers

Looking for discounts through third-party providers is a savvy way to potentially secure a gym membership at a reduced cost.

These providers often offer promotional deals that can include discounted memberships, waived initiation fees, or other benefits.

  • Discount Websites and Apps: Websites like Groupon and LivingSocial often feature deals on gym memberships or fitness classes. These deals can include substantial discounts on initial membership fees, packages of classes, or full memberships. Always read the fine print to understand what the deal includes and any limitations or expiration dates.
  • Cashback and Rewards Sites: Using cashback websites like Rakuten or Honey can also lead to savings. By starting your gym membership purchase through these sites, you can earn a percentage of your purchase back as cashback. Some credit card companies also offer special cashback rates or discounts when you use their card to purchase a gym membership.
  • Corporate Benefit Programs: Many companies partner with platforms like PerkSpot or BenefitHub that offer employees discounts on a range of services, including gym memberships. Check with your employer to see if they participate in any such programs.
  • Insurance Company Rewards: Some health insurance companies offer fitness-related rewards and discounts as part of their commitment to health and wellness. For example, programs like SilverSneakers for seniors or discounts for any age group through health benefits that may include special gym membership rates.
  • AAA Membership: AAA is known for more than just road assistance; they also offer a variety of discounts, including on gym memberships at times. Check the AAA discounts portal to see if there are any current offers for gyms.
  • Alumni Associations: If you are a college or university graduate, your alumni association might offer discounts on various services, including gym memberships. It’s worth checking the benefits they offer, as these deals are negotiated on the basis of large group memberships.
  • Warehouse Clubs: Places like Costco sometimes offer gym membership deals that you can purchase in bulk, such as a two-year membership at a discounted rate. These are often presented as gift cards or vouchers and can offer significant savings.
  • Social Media and Email Newsletters: Sometimes the best way to catch a special offer is by following local gyms on social media or subscribing to their newsletters. Promotions aren’t always widely advertised through large platforms but can appear as special short-term offers on these channels.

Family Add-On Deals

Family add-on deals are an excellent way to save on gym memberships when multiple family members are interested in joining. Many gyms offer discounted rates for additional family members added to a primary membership. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of gym access for the whole family.

Understanding Family Add-On Deals

  • Primary Membership Requirement: Typically, one member of the family signs up at the standard rate, and then additional family members can be added at a reduced rate. The primary member often pays the full price, while the add-ons may receive a significant discount.
  • Definition of ‘Family’: It’s important to check how a gym defines “family.” Some gyms might include only immediate family members living in the same household, such as spouses and children, while others may extend this to include other relatives like parents or siblings.
  • Age Restrictions: There might be age limits for family members eligible for add-on rates, particularly for children and teens. Gyms often offer special rates for younger members.
  • Shared Benefits: In some cases, add-on memberships might come with shared or slightly restricted benefits compared to the primary membership. For example, certain amenities might not be included, or there might be restricted access times for family members.
  • Inquire During Sign-Up: When you are signing up for a new membership, ask about family add-on options. Sales representatives are often eager to register more family members and might offer special deals on the spot.

Benefits of Family Add-On Deals

  • Cost-Effective: Adding family members to an existing membership is generally more cost-effective than purchasing individual memberships for each family member.
  • Promotes a Healthy Lifestyle: Having a family membership can encourage more frequent visits to the gym as a family activity, promoting a healthier lifestyle for all involved.
  • Convenience: Managing one family membership is simpler and more convenient than handling multiple individual memberships.

Points to Consider

  • Understand the Cancellation Policy: Family memberships, especially when purchased as part of a promotion, might have specific cancellation policies. Understand these terms before you commit.
  • Usage Tracking: If the gym tracks attendance, make sure that all family members are aware of how to check in properly to avoid any issues with unauthorized usage claims.
  • Availability of Facilities: Ensure that the facilities are adequate for all family members’ needs, especially if children or elderly relatives are included in the membership.

Student and Senior Discounts

Student and senior discounts are common offerings at many gyms, including LA Fitness, as they provide an opportunity for these groups to access fitness facilities at a reduced cost. These discounts can make maintaining a healthy lifestyle more affordable and accessible.

Student Discounts

  • Eligibility: Typically, student discounts are available to full-time students. You will likely need to provide proof of enrollment, such as a valid student ID or a current class schedule.
  • Amount of Discount: The discount amount can vary. Some gyms offer a percentage off the monthly fees, while others might waive initiation fees or offer special rates for limited access during less busy hours.
  • How to Apply: To get a student discount, you usually need to sign up in person at the gym and provide the necessary documentation to prove your student status. Some gyms also allow you to apply online.
  • Promotional Periods: It’s worth looking out for special promotional periods aimed at students, particularly at the start of a new academic year or semester when gyms might offer additional incentives.

Senior Discounts

  • Eligibility: Senior discounts are generally available to individuals who are 55 or 65 years old and above, depending on the gym’s policy.
  • Amount of Discount: Like student discounts, senior discounts can vary. They might include a percentage off the monthly membership fee, reduced rates for group classes, or even free access to certain amenities.
  • How to Apply: Seniors can typically apply for discounts in person by showing a government-issued ID for age verification. Some gyms might also require membership through certain senior organizations like AARP.
  • Additional Programs: Many gyms participate in programs like SilverSneakers, which provides free or discounted gym access to seniors through their health insurance plans. Check if your health insurance offers such a benefit.

Tips for Maximizing These Discounts

  • Verify the Details: Make sure you understand exactly what the discount covers. Some deals might restrict access to certain times of the day or limit which facilities can be used.
  • Ask About Additional Benefits: In addition to the discount, ask if there are other benefits like free trial periods, discounted classes, or special programs for group workouts.
  • Renewal Policies: Check how often you need to verify your eligibility to maintain the discounted rate and what the process involves.

Free Trial Period

Free trial periods are an excellent way for potential gym members to test out facilities, services, and the overall atmosphere before committing to a membership.

Understanding Free Trial Periods

  • Duration: The length of a free trial can vary significantly from one gym to another. Common durations include one-day passes, three-day trials, or even up to a week. Some gyms might offer longer trial periods during special promotions.
  • Access: During the trial period, you’ll typically have access to most, if not all, of the gym’s facilities. This includes weight rooms, cardio equipment, pools, and sometimes even group fitness classes. However, some premium services or areas might be excluded unless specifically mentioned.
  • Sign-Up Process: To start a free trial, you usually need to sign up either online or in person. This might require providing personal details and sometimes payment information, even if you’re not charged during the trial. Always check if automatic billing starts after the trial ends unless you cancel.
  • Consultations and Tours: Many gyms offer a free consultation or a guided tour as part of the trial experience. This can be a great opportunity to ask questions, learn about different services, and get a feel for the gym’s culture.

Tips for Maximizing Your Free Trial

  • Plan Your Visits: To make the most of a free trial, plan your visits strategically. Try to go at different times of the day to see how crowded it gets and whether the equipment you’re interested in is readily available.
  • Try Different Facilities: Use the trial period to test out as many facilities and services as the gym offers. If they include classes in the trial, sign up for a variety; this can help you gauge the quality of the instructors and the overall class experience.
  • Evaluate the Staff and Cleanliness: Observe how staff interact with members and each other. Are they friendly and helpful? Also, take note of the cleanliness of the facilities, especially in areas like the locker rooms and bathrooms.
  • Check the Culture: The gym’s culture is crucial. Notice if the environment feels welcoming and suitable for your fitness level and goals. Do members seem supportive of each other, and is there a community vibe?
  • Understand the Terms: Before signing up for a free trial, thoroughly understand the terms and conditions. Confirm that you can cancel without obligation before the trial ends and check if you need to opt out manually to avoid charges.
  • Feedback and Offers: At the end of your trial, some gyms might offer special deals to trial users who decide to join. Don’t hesitate to provide feedback about your experience; sometimes, this can lead to customized membership offers.

Conclusion

To get the best LA Fitness membership deals, focus on timing, negotiation, and research. Avoid initiation fees by looking for special promotions and negotiating with sales reps.

Take advantage of discounts for students, employees, seniors, and groups, or explore corporate deals.

Pre-paying, using family add-ons, and free trials can also boost savings. Don’t forget third-party options like discount websites and cashback programs for added benefits.

By staying informed and using these strategies, you can secure a membership that fits your budget and fitness goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does LA Fitness offer any discounts for students?

Yes, LA Fitness typically offers discounted membership rates for students. When signing up, be sure to provide a valid student ID to see if you qualify for any student discounts or promotions at your local gym.

Are there any special deals for military members or veterans?

LA Fitness values the service of military personnel and veterans. At certain locations, they may offer discounted pricing or other special offers for active duty military members, veterans, and their families upon providing valid military ID or proof of service.

How can I take advantage of any corporate wellness program discounts?

Many companies partner with LA Fitness to provide corporate membership discounts for their employees as part of workplace wellness initiatives. Check with your employer’s human resources department to see if they have any special corporate pricing or discounts set up with LA Fitness.

Does joining with a friend or family member provide any savings?

In some cases, LA Fitness allows you to bundle or link multiple memberships together for a discounted group rate. See if there are any promotions available when signing up with a spouse, partner, friend or family members at the same time.

Are there any loyalty programs or renewal incentives?

LA Fitness occasionally offers loyalty rewards, renewal incentives or discounted pricing for existing members who renew their annual memberships. Inquire about any current member appreciation offers before your renewal period.

How can I avoid paying for amenities I won’t use?

When joining LA Fitness, you may be able to opt-out of certain amenities like towel service, personal training, or access to racquet courts if you don’t plan to use them. Customizing your membership package can provide some cost savings.

Are there any discounts available for seniors or AARP members?

Similar to student discounts, LA Fitness may provide special membership pricing for seniors over a certain age or those with an AARP membership. Ask about any eligible senior discounts during the sign-up process.

Can I use my health insurance to reduce the membership cost?

Certain health insurance providers may offer reimbursement or discounted rates for gym memberships as part of wellness program incentives. Check your insurance benefits to see if your LA Fitness membership could qualify for reduced costs.

Are there any special limited-time promotions?

LA Fitness occasionally runs special limited-time promotions or deals for new members, such as waived enrollment fees or discounted first month pricing. Be on the lookout for any advertised specials when looking to join.

Leave a Comment