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 North Carolina, gym and health club contracts are regulated under state law to protect consumers from unfair or overly stringent terms. Specifically, the North Carolina Health Club Services Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 66-135 et seq.) outlines the requirements and limitations for these contracts. The Act mandates that contracts must not exceed a term of three years and requires clear disclosure of the total contract cost and the buyer's rights to cancel. Additionally, there are provisions for cancellation within three days of signing the contract, upon moving a certain distance away from the facility, or due to disability or death. If a gym or health club contract violates these statutory provisions, it may be considered void and unenforceable. However, contracts that comply with the law and do not contain unconscionable terms are generally enforceable. It's important for consumers to review the terms of their gym contracts and understand their rights under North Carolina law.