Gym and health club contracts are notoriously stringent and difficult to break, and have often been the subject of class action lawsuits and other litigation. But like other properly-executed contracts, gym and health club contracts are generally enforceable unless they are unconscionable as a matter of law (this is rare) or include provisions that are prohibited by law. Most states have specific laws (statutes) that limit the terms that may be included in gym and health club contracts—and if such a contract does not comply with the state’s laws, it is likely void and unenforceable—at least in part.
In Louisiana, gym and health club contracts are subject to certain state regulations that aim to protect consumers. While these contracts are generally enforceable, they must comply with the provisions of the Louisiana Health Studio Act (Louisiana Revised Statutes Annotated, Title 51, Chapter 14). This Act sets forth specific requirements for health club contracts, including the duration of the contract, the consumer's right to cancel under certain conditions, and disclosures that must be made by the health club. For instance, contracts cannot exceed a term of three years and must allow cancellation within three days of signing without penalty. Additionally, if a health club fails to open within a certain time frame or closes down, members are typically entitled to a refund of certain fees. If a gym or health club contract includes provisions that violate these statutory requirements, those provisions, or potentially the entire contract, may be considered void and unenforceable. It's important for consumers to be aware of their rights under these laws and for gyms to ensure their contracts are in compliance to avoid litigation and potential class action lawsuits.