The United States’ Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently announced a new ruling that is likely to affect fitness businesses nationwide. 

The “click-to-cancel” rule requires businesses that use automatic renewal features to provide an easy-to-use and find cancellation method for their subscriptions. For businesses with unclear cancellation processes some changes may be required. 

The rule went into effect in January 2025 – though compliance is required by May 14, 2025. 

In this post we’re going to review what this new rule means, how ABC Trainerize’s solutions align with it, and what it all means for your fitness business going forward—especially in protecting your recurring revenue. 

A Closer Look at the FTC’s “Click-to-Cancel” Rule for Personal Trainers 

The FTC’s “Click-to-Cancel” rule is a continuation of the trend seen by individual states to regulate and update requirements for automatic renewal agreements.

It focuses on longstanding frustrations from consumers who’ve struggled with confusing and time-consuming cancellation processes. The goal is to make it as easy to cancel a subscription as it is to sign up for one.   

Here’s what the new rule means for fitness business owners operating in the USA.   

Clear and Transparent Disclosures of Material Terms and No Misrepresentations   

Members must be given clear and conspicuous (think unavoidable) information about the material terms of their subscription, including:   

That their contract automatically renews with recurring charges, if and when changes will increase, the deadline (by date or frequency) by which members must take action to stop the charges, the amount and frequency of the charge, how to cancel, and any other terms material to their contract, upfront.   

Consent for Renewals   

Once the rule goes into effect, it means that members must also now provide separate, express consent for an automatic renewal feature, such as a separate check box or initials line for the automatic renewal that is distinct from any other part of the transaction. This ensures customers are fully aware of and agree to ongoing charges.    

Streamlined Cancellation Processes   

Businesses will also be required to offer a cancellation method that’s just as simple as their sign-up process. If a member signed up online, they should be able to cancel online—no hurdles, no hassle.   

Non-compliance with these rules can lead to hefty fines and other setbacks, so it pays to be prepared for this new ruling.  Moreover, streamlined cancellations are already a requirement in many states, with more being added.  

How ABC Trainerize Helps You with Compliance 

At ABC Trainerize, we’re always working to help your business address compliance regulations while also providing a seamless experience for your clients and members.  

Here are some key ABC Trainerize features—plus new updates coming soon—that will help you stay ahead of the game and support compliant with the FTC’s new “click-to-cancel” rules. 

🆕 Terms of Service and Auto-Renewal Before Checkout 

• 🆕 Custom Terms of Service: You’ll be able to create and add your own Terms of Service outlining what’s included, how renewals work, how clients can cancel, and more.  

• 🆕 Pre-Purchase Review of Terms of Service: Clients will then see and agree to your Terms of Service before viewing subscription products or entering payment details. 

• 🆕 Consent for Renewals: Clients will also be asked to provide consent for auto-renewals–confirming they understand and agree to ongoing charges associated with recurring subscriptions. 

• This update is intended to ensure clients understand exactly what they’re signing up for—protecting your business and setting clear expectations from the start. 

 Easy Self-Service Cancellation 

• Set up self-cancellation for recurring products so clients can cancel directly from their web or mobile app, making the process quick, easy, and frustration-free. 

• 🆕 Self-Cancellation for Subscriptions: Soon, new recurring products will have self-cancellation enabled by default. You can easily edit existing products to enable self-cancellation for new purchases going forward. 

• No Renewals After Cancellation: When a client cancels, the subscription will remain active until the end of the current billing cycle, then stop automatically.

What This Means for You: Next Steps 

To support compliance with the new FTC “Click-to-Cancel” rule and continue delivering a seamless client experience, here’s what you’ll need to do:

#1: Enable Self-Cancellation for Recurring Products

Make sure self-cancellation is enabled for all your recurring products. This will allow clients to easily manage their subscriptions through their account—helping you meet the “easy cancel” requirement. (Good news: self-cancellation will be turned on by default for new recurring products starting May 8, 2025.) 

#2: Draft or Update Your Terms of Service

Start preparing your Terms of Service now. Outline what’s included in each product, how renewals work, how clients can cancel, and any minimum commitment periods. Clear, upfront terms will not only protect your business but also help build client trust. 

• Communicate Changes Clearly: If you’re updating your Terms of Service or cancellation process, make sure to notify your clients through email, in-app messages, or during sessions to set clear expectations. 

• Train Your Team (If You Have One): If you have staff involved in onboarding or sales, ensure they understand the new Terms of Service and can confidently explain them to clients. 

Tip: Check out this help article on some more guidance on what to include in your Terms of Service.

#3: Add Your Terms of Service to ABC Trainerize Once Live

When the new Terms of Service feature launches on May 8th, 2025, you’ll be able to upload your finalized TOS directly in ABC Trainerize. Clients will be required to review and agree to your terms before proceeding to checkout.

Why These Changes Are Good for Your Business 

Making your subscriptions clearer and easier to manage isn’t just about compliance—it’s about building stronger relationships with your clients. Here’s how these updates help your business grow: 

• Build more trust: When clients know exactly what they’re signing up for—and how to manage it—they’re more confident in your services. 

• Keep clients longer: Clients who feel informed and in control are less likely to cancel impulsively, helping you reduce churn over time. 

• Stand out from the competition: Offering a transparent, seamless experience sets your business apart and shows you value your clients’ experience. 

Clear terms, simple cancellations, and open communication all lead to happier, more loyal clients—and a stronger business for the long run. 

By taking these simple steps, you’ll not only help support compliance with the new FTC requirements—you’ll deliver a smoother, more professional experience that builds client confidence and loyalty. 

ABC Trainerize is here to support you every step of the way as you navigate these changes and continue to grow your fitness business.