If this is already being done somewhere, I wouldn't be surprised, but it's something I've never heard of...

What's the best incentive to get in shape/lose weight/exercise more?

Aside from the threat of mortifying embarrassment (as Barry's special on ABC showed us) the incentive of money could be pretty significant. Specifically, one's own money.

If health clubs want to give people a better incentive structure to come and actually exercise, there's a better way than just taking membership fees and giving access for x months. (Granted, they might want the extra free money from all those people who sign up in January and never come!)

How about a very large membership fee upfront with a small refund each time you come and work out? The refunds could stop after a certain number of visits in order to leave a base fee for the gym (they do need to keep some of it, after all).

It's like a bail bond in small installments - a great commitment strategy to use on yourself. You're using your commitment at the beginning of the New Year to keep yourself coming back to the gym the rest of the year.

If they're skittish about using money refunds, gyms may not even have to return the fee in dollars - perhaps they can give back a portion of the membership fee in gift cards, or extra membership benefits, or other rewards.

What do you think of this idea or comment?
(You can change your vote at any time)

I agree

No opinion

I disagree