Mamdani Cracks Down on Gym “Subscription Traps”

NEW YORK — Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) launched a major enforcement blitz against 187 gyms and health clubs on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The crackdown targets “subscription traps” and deceptive advertising that make it intentionally difficult for New Yorkers to cancel their memberships.

The move follows a wave of consumer complaints and a January executive order aimed at eliminating “junk fees” and predatory subscription models across the city.

The “Personal Trainer” for Cancellations

In a statement released today, Mayor Mamdani emphasized that the process for leaving a gym should be as simple as the process for joining.

• Targeted Chains: Warning notices were sent to major industry players including Equinox, Planet Fitness, and PureGym, as well as various independent health clubs.
• Bait-and-Switch Tactics: The DCWP is investigating schemes where “free trials” automatically convert into paid plans with hidden charges, and “bait-and-switch” pricing where advertised rates do not match final bills.
• The “Triathlon” of Cancellation: Mamdani noted that some gyms force members through “endless administrative red tape,” requiring in-person visits or certified mail to end a contract that was started with a single click online.

“New Yorkers shouldn’t need a personal trainer to cancel a gym membership. If a company makes it easy to sign up but nearly impossible to walk away, we will enforce the law.” — Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Feb 19, 2026

Wider Impact of the Mamdani Budget

While the gym crackdown focuses on consumer protection, the city’s fitness industry is also bracing for the impact of Mamdani’s $127 billion preliminary budget, which was unveiled earlier this week.

• Property Tax Hike: The mayor’s “last resort” proposal to raise property taxes by 9.5% would apply to over 100,000 commercial properties, including those housing gyms.
• Cost Increases: Industry analysts warn that if these taxes are implemented, gym owners may be forced to raise membership rates to cover the increased overhead, potentially offsetting the savings the mayor is trying to provide through the removal of junk fees.

Common “Traps” Under Investigation