How to Cancel Gold's Gym Membership in 2026

Updated February 2026 · 5 min read

Gold's Gym is one of the hardest gym memberships to cancel. Most locations don't let you cancel online or over the phone — they require in-person visits or certified mail. And there's a 30-day notice requirement, which means you'll pay for at least one more month after cancelling.

Method 1: Cancel In Person

1. Visit your home gym location (the one you signed up at)
2. Ask the front desk for a cancellation form
3. Fill it out completely — sign and date it
4. Get a copy of the signed form (critical — insist on this)
5. Ask for a cancellation confirmation number or receipt
6. Cancellation takes effect 30 days from the date you submit the form

Method 2: Cancel by Certified Mail

If you can't visit in person (moved away, schedule conflict), send a certified letter:

1. Write a letter including: your full name, member ID, address, phone number, and the statement "I hereby cancel my Gold's Gym membership effective immediately, with 30-day notice per the agreement."
2. Send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt (costs ~$7)
3. Address it to your home gym location
4. Keep the tracking number and return receipt — this is your proof

Watch Out for the Annual Fee

Many Gold's Gym contracts include an annual enhancement fee of $39-49 charged once per year (usually in the month you joined). If your annual fee is coming up, cancel before it hits. This fee is non-refundable and often surprises members who forgot it was in their contract.

If They Keep Charging You

1. Pull out your proof: Show your signed form copy or certified mail receipt
2. Call corporate: 1-866-465-3775 — escalate past the local gym
3. Dispute with your bank: File a chargeback for charges after your cancellation date + 30 days
4. File with the BBB: Gold's Gym locations respond to BBB complaints quickly to maintain their rating
5. Block future charges: Ask your bank to block all charges from "Gold's Gym" or their billing company (often ABC Financial)

Cheaper Alternatives

• Planet Fitness ($10/month): No contract, cancel anytime, basic equipment
• YMCA (income-based): Financial assistance available, pool + classes included
• Home workouts (free): YouTube channels like Fitness Blender, THENX, Athlean-X
• Apple Fitness+ ($9.99/month): Classes you can do at home with minimal equipment
• Peloton app ($12.99/month): No bike needed — strength, yoga, HIIT classes