Listen up, fitness enthusiasts and wallet warriors! This isn’t just another rant—this is a public service announcement that could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.
DMN8, a gym on Main Street in Santa Monica/Venice that has been taking advantage of my credit card ( any many others, I am confident), monthy for 18 months, despite my cancellation in numerous ways. They refuse to change their policies, market everywhere they are no contract” and are breaking many laws that they will be reported for over the coming weeks. Shame on them.
The Setup: When a Gym Becomes a Financial Vampire
Imagine walking into what looks like the most Instagram-perfect gym in Santa Monica. Sleek design, motivational quotes on the walls, and an intro offer so cheap it seems too good to be true. Spoiler alert: IT IS.
The Red Flags You Can’t Ignore
Warning Signs of a Predatory Gym Membership:
Complicated cancellation process Vague “no contract” marketing Automatic billing that continues without your active consent Zero communication about ongoing charges
The Anatomy of a Billing Scam
Our protagonist, Tony Greenberg, discovered a nightmare scenario that’s all too common in the fitness industry. One gym visit turned into an 18-month billing marathon, with zero workouts and thousands of dollars stolen.
The Math of Madness
Actual gym visits: 1 Months billed: 18 Money lost: $2000 Gains: ZERO (except financial trauma)
Legal Ammunition: Fighting Back Against Fitness Fraud
California doesn’t play when it comes to consumer protection. Here’s your legal toolkit:
1. Automatic Renewal Law (California Business & Professions Code §17600–17606)
Businesses MUST get clear consent for recurring charges Easy cancellation is not optional—it’s mandatory Hidden fees? Not on California’s watch
2. Unfair Competition Law (§17200)
Deceptive practices are a big NO Continuing to bill after cancellation? Legally questionable Your right to fair treatment is protected
DMN8’s ongoing billing practices may land them in hot water—potentially allegedly violating the civil monetary penalties law due to unauthorized charges and failure to honor cancellation requests
Where to Report: Your Consumer Protection Hit List
Top Agencies to Drop the Hammer:
California Department of Consumer Affairs California Attorney General’s Office Federal Trade Commission Better Business Bureau Los Angeles County Consumer Protection