I've been a Bally's member for 13 years. I've used the locations in Schaumburg East, Schaumburg West and Mount Prospect. Other than using a park district facility during college, that's my only exposure to gyms so I can't say it's better than, say, Lifetime...but from what I understand it's much more economical. The renewals over time are great. I just renewed for another year at $68. For the year, not the month! Now I primarily use Mt. Prospect after work, so at 5 pm when I arrive it's often crowded and you may need to wait for your machine. But for the money I think it's worth it. My hubby used the kids club a few years back and thought it was fine, right now I run straight from work and work out quickly in time to pick up my kids from day care. And of course I don't have any words to add about ending the membership myself, other than saying to ask when you sign up. Not just verbally, but have them show you in the paperwork where it says what happens when you get out.