Surrey residents planning to get fit in the new year are being warned to carefully check membership contracts before joining a gym.

The county council's Trading Standards team urges caution from residents who might get tied in to deals lasting between 12 and 24 months.

Their advice is for residents to look around for the best deal available, and to find out how easy it is to cancel contracts before signing up.

Head of Surrey Trading Standards Peter Denard said: "It is important residents remain vigilant and are aware of the potentially misleading sales tactics used by some gyms. They should take time to thoroughly research their options before signing any contracts.

"It is not uncommon for some fitness centres to make phone calls, send out leaflets or create website pop-ups claiming that the person reading it has won a free gym membership, only for them to discover they have to sign up to a credit agreement."

Before joining a gym, trading standards is advising consumers to look around for the best deal and find out how easy it is to cancel individual contracts."

He added: "Most people join a gym for the right reasons but if they are too hasty they might find they have committed themselves to something they can't afford to stick to. Residents need to ask themselves questions such as 'what if I am ill and unable to use the gym?' and 'does the gym offer trial periods?' to ensure they are making informed decisions."

For more information and advice visit www.consumerdirect.gov.uk or call 08454 04 05 06.