Is There a Lock-In? How Membership Works at Our Canberra Clubs

Before you ever step onto a mat, there is usually a quieter question running in the background. What happens if I join, and then it does not suit me?

It is a fair thing to wonder, and you should not have to wonder for long. Here is how membership works at our Canberra clubs, in plain language, so you can decide with your eyes open.

"No joining fees. No contracts. Just 30 days' notice if you ever need to stop."

Do I have to sign up to start?

No. Most people begin by getting on the mat, not by filling in a form. Wear comfortable clothes and we provide any gear you need. No experience is required.

Your first class is on us! After that, there is a three-week trial with unlimited classes at either club, so you can try more than one class before you commit to anything. You can see the current trial options on our pricing page, or start at getting started.

Is there a lock-in contract?

There is no lock-in. There is no joining fee and no sign-up fee. If you ever need to stop, we ask for 30 days' written notice using the Cancellation Form on our member information page.

A few details are worth knowing up front, because we would rather you hear them from us now than discover them later:

• Cancellation requests need to come through the official form. A text, a message or a verbal request cannot be actioned.
• Any payment that falls inside the 30-day notice period is taken as scheduled.
• You are welcome to keep training for the whole notice period.

How do payments work?

You can pay by fortnightly or monthly direct debit, or pay for twelve months upfront. Memberships are priced as equal fortnightly payments, so the amount does not change from one debit to the next. We do not add card fees.

Prices already allow for public holidays and the Christmas shutdown, which means payments continue through those weeks. We think that is simpler than a bill that moves around, but it is worth knowing before you join.

If you would rather make one payment and be done, the upfront option is cheaper than paying fortnightly. It comes with a seven-day cooling-off period, and you can see the current figures on the pricing page.

What if I get injured, or I am travelling?

This is one of the most common hesitations, and the answer is that you have options. Membership can be suspended for:

• injury, illness or a medical procedure
• travel
• financial hardship

Each request is considered on its merits, and evidence may be needed. For an injury or illness, please ask as soon as you have medical advice that you are unfit to train. For work-related travel, we ask for written notice at least two weeks ahead, and the minimum hold is one week.

Upfront memberships work a little differently. Because the discount already covers missed training, they are not eligible for suspension. In exceptional circumstances, such as a significant injury with medical evidence, the club will consider extending the term. If you are travelling and not sure where you stand, tell the team and we will look at what we can do, including make-up sessions.

What about kids and families?

Parents often ask whether a membership will still make sense when school terms and holidays get in the way. Our plans are not based on school terms. Kids classes run 48 weeks a year, and during school holidays kids can train as often as they like, apart from the Christmas break.

If more than one person in the house wants to train, there are sibling and family memberships. They are set out on the pricing page, and the kids programs and adult martial arts pages show what each age group can try.

What if I leave and want to come back?

You are always welcome to return. If you reactivate in the future, your membership rate will be the rate in effect at that time, not your previous one, because rates can change.

How to decide without pressure

A sensible way to approach it is to start small. Come and try a class, take the three-week trial if you like what you see, and only then choose a membership that fits your week. Read the terms on the member information page first if that helps. We are happy to answer questions before you commit to anything.

When you are ready, the timetable shows every class at both clubs, and getting started walks you through the first visit step by step.