Originally Posted by
Rock72
When i signed up, I was told that I could either:
1) pay the initiation fee ($595) + monthly membership ($136/mo for 1 club, $160/mo for CA clubs) with my AMEX Platinum and get some free stuff from AMEX platinum (training, spa, etc.)
OR
2) pay the reduced fee via my triathlon club (no initiation fee, slightly less monthly fees)
My quick calculation in my head told me that option #2 is much better so I went with that.
I was just wondering if maybe the sales person might have pulled a fast one on me...
They didn't. AFAIK, you have to comply with the terms and conditions of the "special" rate given to Amex Plat holders in order to qualify for the stated benefits.
It has never been clear to me whether it is up to Equinox or Amex as to the benefits being handed out, but I think it probably comes down to whether you pay the monthly fee with an Amex and are flagged in Equinox's system as someone who pays the fee that get the benefits. If you are flagged in the system as qualifying for another rate you will only get the benefits of that rate, even if you pay with an Amex.
FWIW, after the first year Equinox does not do a good job of handing out the repeat benefits in any case. For the last two years I have had to call Equinox headquarters to get the free training sessions and shop certificates.