Two of New York City’s most iconic — and expensive — fitness brands have been forced into a financial workout of their own. Equinox and SoulCycle, both part of the Equinox Group and fixtures at locations in Hudson Yards, Columbus Circle and across the West Side, have agreed to a $600,000 settlement with the New York State Attorney General’s Office for making it notoriously difficult for customers to cancel their memberships.
New York Attorney General Letitia James announced the settlement Friday, stating that the company failed to clearly disclose subscription terms, didn’t obtain proper consent for auto-renewals, and offered no easy or cost-effective way for people to cancel. Customers who attempted to end their memberships but were trapped in a confusing and time-consuming process may now be entitled to up to $250 in refunds.
“New Yorkers should be able to cancel a membership they no longer use or want without breaking a sweat,” said AG James. “The Equinox Group made it challenging for customers to end their membership, costing them time and money.”
The state’s investigation found that Equinox buried key information in fine print, omitted post-purchase confirmation notices and forced subscribers through hoops to leave. Under the settlement, the company will now be required to make cancellation policies clear on websites for each of its brands, and offer digital cancellation options.
West Siders who frequented Equinox gyms or took SoulCycle or Equinox+ online classes between February 9, 2021 and May 19, 2025 may be eligible for restitution. Refunds of up to $250 will be available to those who filed complaints with Equinox, the Attorney General’s Office, the Federal Trade Commission, or the Better Business Bureau. Additionally, customers who simply tried — and failed — to cancel during that time may be able to claim up to $100.
Claims must be submitted by July 19, 2025. SoulCycle subscribers should email NewYorkAGclaims@soul-cycle.com, while Equinox Gym and Equinox+ users should contact NewYorkAGclaims@equinox.com. Claimants need to include their name and the email address or phone number associated with their account.
