Fitness fraud is on the rise - here’s how to obliterate the risks by working out for free

Gyms. Hot, stuffy and expensive. Personal trainers. Great if you’ve got money to burn, but let’s be honest, most of us don’t.

As more of us look for ways to get fit, fraudsters are swooping in with deals that look amazing… but end up costing you money you can’t afford to lose.

What does fitness fraud look like?

It typically starts with a social media ad. You’ll see a “can’t-miss January deal” for a gym membership or personal trainer. It promises huge savings, quick results and a brand-new you.

There’s pressure too. They bombard you with: “You must act now.” “Limited spaces.” “Offer ends tonight.”

You don’t want to miss out, so you quickly pay. You’re feeling motivated and pleased that you’re taking control of your health.

Then the truth hits. The gym doesn’t exist. The personal trainer vanishes. Your money’s gone, and your details could be sitting in a scammer’s database, ready for future fraud.

How you can protect yourself from fitness fraud

Here’s how you can stay one step ahead, without killing your motivation.

Stick to reputable websites

If you’re joining a gym or booking a trainer, go directly to their official website. Avoid clicking through social media ads or DMs. Scammers love hiding behind flashy posts and fake pages.

Double-check the website address

Always look closely at the URL. Fraudsters create web addresses that look almost right, but with tiny differences, like extra letters, missing dots or strange endings.

Don’t fall for pressure tactics

If you’re being rushed, pause. Real gyms and trainers don’t need to bully you into signing up. If a deal disappears the moment you stop to think, it’s probably not legit.

Read reviews – properly

Don’t rely on testimonials on the company’s own site. Look on Google, Trustpilot and social media. Be wary of reviews that are vague, overly glowing or all posted around the same time.

If you think you’ve already been scammed

Act fast:

• contact your bank immediately
• report it to Report Fraud on their website or by calling 0300 123 2040
• cancel your card and order a new one

The quicker you act, the better your chances.

Want to avoid fitness scams completely? Skip the gym and work out for free

One of the safest ways to avoid fitness fraud is to not spend any money at all.

Here are five ways you can get fit for free, starting today.

1. Make your own weights

No dumbbells, no problem. Use bags of rice, tins of beans, backpacks filled with books or bottles of water. If it adds resistance, it counts.

2. Join a parkrun

Parkruns are free, weekly, timed events held all over the UK. You can run, jog, walk or volunteer. There’s no pressure and no judgement. It’s one of the easiest ways to build fitness and confidence.

Find your nearest one here. 

3. Walk the dog a bit further

You’re already out there, so make it count. Walk faster, go longer, throw a ball, jog a little. Every step adds up, and your dog will love you for it.

4. Walk whenever you can

If it’s walkable, walk it. School runs, quick errands, trips to the shop, it all boosts your fitness and clears your head.

5. Get off one stop early

If walking the whole way isn’t realistic, hop off the bus or train one stop early. It’s an easy habit that builds movement into your day without effort.

You don’t need expensive memberships, flashy apps or ‘exclusive’ deals to get fit. And you definitely don’t need to risk your money to look after your health.

By staying alert to scams, and embracing free, everyday ways to move your body, you can protect your wallet and your wellbeing.

Want more ideas?

Check out our 40 ways to get fit for free and start today, no scams required.