Introduction: Using a Doctor’s Note to Cancel Your Planet Fitness Membership
Planet Fitness, a popular gym chain with multiple locations in New York City, has specific procedures for membership cancellations. While standard cancellations typically require advance notice and may involve fees, members facing medical issues that prevent gym usage may be eligible for cancellation without penalties by providing a doctor’s note.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we assist patients dealing with chronic back pain, injuries, or other medical conditions in obtaining the necessary medical documentation to support gym membership cancellations. If your health condition hinders your ability to utilize Planet Fitness facilities, a doctor’s note can facilitate the termination of your membership contract.
This guide outlines Planet Fitness’s cancellation policy, the process for obtaining a medical exemption, and the steps to submit a doctor’s note to cancel your membership.
Planet Fitness Cancellation Policy: Medical Exemptions
Planet Fitness’s standard cancellation policies typically include:
• Notice Period: Members are generally required to provide advance notice before canceling their membership. The specific duration of this notice period can vary depending on the terms outlined in your membership agreement.
• Cancellation Methods: Members can cancel their membership by visiting their home club in person or by sending a written cancellation request via mail. Some locations may offer online cancellation options; it’s advisable to contact your specific club to confirm their process.
• Medical Cancellations: If a medical condition prevents you from using the gym, Planet Fitness may allow you to cancel your membership without penalty upon receipt of appropriate medical documentation.
When Can a Doctor’s Note Help You Cancel Your Planet Fitness Membership?
Planet Fitness may permit medical-based cancellations for conditions such as:
• Chronic back pain, herniated discs, or spinal injuries
• Severe joint pain, arthritis, or mobility impairments
• Post-surgical recovery requiring limited physical activity
• Any condition where a doctor determines exercise could be harmful
If a healthcare provider confirms that exercise would worsen your condition or delay recovery, they can provide a formal letter supporting your cancellation request.
How to Obtain a Doctor’s Note for Planet Fitness Cancellation
1. Schedule an Appointment with Your Healthcare Provider
Consult your chiropractor, primary care physician, or orthopedic specialist to discuss how your injury or condition prevents you from exercising. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and determine if discontinuing your gym membership is medically necessary.
2. Request a Formal Medical Letter
Your doctor’s note for Planet Fitness should include:
• Your full name and date of birth
• A medical diagnosis (without disclosing unnecessary personal details)
• An explanation of how exercise could worsen your condition
• A recommendation for cancellation due to medical reasons
• The doctor’s signature, medical license number, and contact information
The letter must be on official letterhead to be accepted by Planet Fitness.
3. Submit the Doctor’s Note to Planet Fitness
Once you have your medical documentation, submit it to Planet Fitness following their cancellation procedures:
• In Person: Visit your home club and provide the doctor’s note to a staff member. Request a cancellation form if required.
• By Mail: Send a written cancellation request, including your doctor’s note, to your home club’s address. It’s recommended to use certified mail to ensure receipt.
Keep a copy of the doctor’s note and any correspondence for your records. Follow up with the club to confirm the cancellation has been processed.
What to Do If Planet Fitness Denies Your Cancellation Request
If Planet Fitness rejects your medical cancellation request, consider the following options:
• Request an appeal with additional documentation from your doctor.
• Inquire about freezing your membership instead of canceling it. Many clubs allow you to put your membership on hold for up to three months for medical reasons.
• Consult your state’s consumer protection laws regarding gym contract disputes. In New York, for example, you have the right to cancel your contract if a significant physical disability, according to a doctor’s order, prevents you from receiving the services as stated in the contract for more than six months.
If necessary, your doctor may provide an updated note emphasizing that continued gym use is not safe for your health.
Final Steps: Ensuring a Smooth Cancellation Process
• Review your contract for specific medical exemption policies.
• Obtain a detailed doctor’s note from a licensed healthcare provider.
• Submit your request in person or by mail to your home Planet Fitness location.
• Follow up to confirm approval and avoid unexpected charges.
For those struggling with chronic pain, spinal injuries, or post-surgical recovery, Unity Chiropractic Wellness can provide the medical documentation needed for gym cancellations. If back pain is affecting your daily life, consider chiropractic care to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
If you need assistance with a Planet Fitness medical cancellation, schedule an appointment today to discuss your options.