Fitness Premier Cardinal Fitness Gym membership scam. Bourbonnais, Illinois

I went into Fitness Premier on December 18th, 2010 because my key card wouldn't work, which would not allow me to enter the facility. I called the 'emergency' numbers listed on the front door with no answer and no response.

I spoke to a young man named Aaron, I think. I explained that my card didn't work and he said he could get me a new one. After he made it, he told me that it was going to cost $10 to replace it. I paid the money but felt that it wasn't right. I started to leave and then turned back to the counter. I told him that I just wanted to cancel my membership. He asked why and I stated that I had to pay for a new key, but they didn't do anything to assist me the previous 2 nights.

He told me that I was already past the billing cycle, so I would be charged for January and that would be it. I told him that was no problem. The debit card I had on file expired in January so we were good there. I have not set foot back in the gym since.

In March, I received a letter from them saying that I owe them for February and March and that my debit card information had expired. I called the number on the letter and was given the number to the facility. I called and spoke to a woman who was quite nasty to me. I explained what had happened and she asked if I filled out any paperwork. I said that I didn't and that Aaron didn't offer any paperwork.

I told her what he told me, word for word. Her response..."too bad". I asked her how I could be responsible for their employees not doing their job. She dismissed my question and told me that if I didn't give her my new credit card information that she was going to send it to collections. I asked for a corporate number and she hung up on me.

I went home and email the company about my issue. I never got a response. I tried to go there in person and the door is locked and the key card that I paid $10 for no longer works.

Be very cautious when dealing with these people. They don't explain any rules when you sign up and they press you for your bank information. DON'T DO IT! You are better off buying your own equipment.