What is Aira Fitness's strong recommendation before purchasing a franchise regarding legal review?

According to Aira Fitness's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the company strongly urges prospective franchisees to seek legal counsel before purchasing a franchise. This recommendation is due to the extensive regulations at the local, state, and federal levels that govern the physical fitness industry, particularly for-profit exercise facilities.

The FDD highlights that many states have specific laws regulating membership contract terms and lengths, advertising, and pre-opening sales limitations. Additionally, these laws often include bonding requirements, buyer's remorse cancellation rights (typically three to ten days after the sale), and cancellation and partial refund rights for medical or relocation reasons. At the federal level, Aira Fitness facilities that sell memberships on credit may be subject to the Truth-In-Lending Act and Regulation Z, along with other credit-related statutes.

Aira Fitness emphasizes that it is solely the franchisee's responsibility to comply with all applicable laws and regulations and to obtain and maintain all necessary licenses and permits required by public authorities. Therefore, engaging an attorney to review local, state, and federal laws that may affect the Aira Fitness operation or impact operating costs is a crucial step in the due diligence process. This proactive approach can help franchisees avoid potential legal issues and ensure compliance from the outset.