How to Cancel a Gym Membership in Germany – A Step-by-Step Guide
Canceling a gym membership in Germany can be more complex than expected, thanks to long-term contract structures, varying notice periods, and stringent consumer laws. But with the right information, you can cut through the confusion and cancel your membership smoothly.
This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know—from contract types and cancellation timing to legal exceptions, required documentation, and what to do if your gym plays hardball.
📄 Step 1: Understand Your Gym Contract
German gyms typically offer two contract types:
Fixed-Term Contracts
Most common, lasting 12 or 24 months. While these end automatically, many include auto-renewal clauses, so cancellation must be submitted in writing within the notice period to avoid contract extension.
Indefinite Contracts
These run until canceled and require notice periods (usually 1–3 months). Details are found in your AGB (Allgemeine Geschäftsbedingungen).
🔗 Read more on contract types via Allianz
⏳ Step 2: Know Your Notice Period
Notice periods (“Kündigungsfrist”) usually span 1–3 months, depending on the contract. If missed, your membership can auto-renew for another term.
🔗 ARAG explains more about gym contract timing
✍️ Step 3: Write a Legally-Compliant Cancellation Letter
Your cancellation letter must include:
-
Full name and address
-
Membership number
-
Contract end date or cancellation date
-
SEPA revocation if applicable
-
Signature and location/date
-
Request for written confirmation
🔗 Use Anwalt.org’s free cancellation template
⚠️ Step 4: Handle Special Circumstances
Cooling-Off Period
If signed online, via phone, or mail, you can cancel within 14 days (“Widerrufsrecht”). This doesn't apply to contracts signed in person at the gym.
Extraordinary Termination Rights
Based on §314 BGB, you can cancel early for:
-
Serious illness (with doctor’s note)
-
Relocation to another city/country
-
Major service changes or price increases
🔗 More on special rights from Siegfried.de
⚖️ Step 5: Leverage Your Legal Protections
Thanks to the Fair Consumer Contracts Act (2022), after 24 months you can cancel any gym contract with one month's notice—even if your agreement states otherwise.
🔗 DAHAG explains your rights under this law
🏋️ How to Cancel at Major Gym Chains in Germany
| Gym Chain | Cancellation Process |
|---|---|
| McFIT | Submit written notice via email/post |
| FitX | Written cancellation required |
| Holmes Place | Check AGB for individual club policies |
| Fitness First | Cancel using the official form |
| Clever Fit | Use downloadable form |
| Injoy | Follow location-specific cancellation info |
💡 Skip the Hassle: Try Sqwod Pod Instead
Tired of jumping through hoops just to cancel your gym?
Sqwod Pod offers a modern, flexible alternative:
-
✅ Book private gym time by the hour
-
✅ Bring your baby, toddler, or dog
-
✅ No contracts, cancel anytime
-
✅ Monthly or pay-as-you-go options
-
✅ Clean, high-end spaces in Berlin
🔗 Explore the Sqwod Pod experience
❓ FAQs
Can I cancel if I move cities?
Generally, no—unless the gym allows it contractually. Some may allow cancellation if there’s no nearby location.
What if my gym ignores my cancellation?
Use registered mail or email with confirmation. If ignored, contact Verbraucherzentrale or a legal expert.
Can I transfer my membership?
Sometimes. Check your contract or ask gym management.
Sources
-
https://www.lifeinduesseldorf.com/cancel-gym-membership-germany/
-
https://www.dory.de/fitnessstudio-vertrag-kuendigen-wann-ist-das-moeglich
-
https://www.siegfried.de/vertragskuendigung/fitnessstudio-kuendigen/
-
https://www.dahag.de/c/ratgeber/zivilrecht/abonnementvertrag/fitnesstudio-kuendigen
-
https://www.arag.de/rechtsschutzversicherung/privatrechtsschutz/fitnessstudio-recht/
-
https://hilfe.fitx.de/hc/de/articles/13122432283037-Wie-kann-ich-meine-Mitgliedschaft-k%C3%BCndigen