NEW YORK — A new year, a new you! Many New Yorkers are now joining gyms to keep up with their resolve to get fit and stay that way.

But Robert J. Rodriguez, New York’s secretary of state, says gym fees can become burdensome to consumers unaware of the many hidden non-refundable charges that come with initiating, maintaining, and even canceling a membership. These fees can quickly add up and leave you with a much higher bill than expected.

Before signing up or renewing a health club or gym membership, here’s what you need to know, according to the Division of Consumer Protection:

• Initiation or registration fees are typically non-refundable, so be sure the location and schedule are convenient to you.
• Look out for annual maintenance charges. Understand the terms regarding this annual surcharge.
• Lockers usually come with an extra rental cost. Some gyms require you to purchase your own padlock or locker assignment.
• Understand the gym’s policies about terminating your contract.
• Premium classes and personal training sessions may come with additional charges. While the first training session may be offered for free, subsequent sessions will likely come at a cost. Ask about the hourly rate and when prepaid sessions expire.
• Classroom extras such as yoga mats, steps, and stretch bands may require a rental fee if you don’t have your own equipment.

Know your rights

• New York State law requires businesses to disclose the terms, clearly and conspicuously, of auto-renewal offers, cancellation policies, and minimum purchase obligations at the time of enrollment.
• A business that allows auto-renewal must also provide simple user-friendly cancellation options, a toll-free telephone number, and email address. Consumers who purchase services online must be allowed to terminate the agreement online. 
• Businesses must provide consumers with an acknowledgment that outlines the terms of any auto-renewal offer and, if the original offer includes a “free” trial offer or gift, information on how the consumer can cancel the service before they pay for it. 

If you think a company is not following the law, file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection.