Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness was founded in 1992 by Michael Grondahl, who purchased a financially struggling gym, and implemented a low-cost business model by dramatically reducing prices to compete against better-known brands. The goal was to meet the needs of occasional or first-time health club members, rather than more experienced members.
The Planet Fitness brand has positioned itself as the leader for getting great value from a gym membership. Planet Fitness focuses on the average person who wants to get in shape and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Planet Fitness is unique in the fact that they discourage body-building and “gymtimidation.” Today, Planet Fitness has over 1000 locations with an estimated 6 million members across the United States. The company’s locations are either corporate- or individually owned and operated.
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The Good
- Planet Fitness Prices and Contracts
- Planet Fitness Black Card
- "Judgement Free Zone"
- Extra Membership Fees
- Equipment
- Personal Training
- Planet Fitness Locations
Planet Fitness Prices and Contracts
Planet Fitness is possibly the cheapest gym membership available at only $10/month. Contracts are month-to-month with no obligation. For example, certain fitness centers in the industry require you to make a three-to-six-month commitment upon signup. When it comes to price, on average, monthly gym memberships cost anywhere from $55/month to as much as $161/month.
Planet Fitness Black Card
Planet Fitness offers two types of Planet Fitness memberships: the $10 or Black Card membership. The $10 membership is the basic package without many perks beyond unlimited access to that particular gym. The Black Card Membership costs $22.99/month. If you are interested in this card membership, you should reach out to a membership representative.
Black Card perks include 20 percent off Reebok products at outlet store locations and 10 percent off at Planet Fitness' online store. You also get unlimited access to other Planet Fitness locations, as well as to their massage chairs and tanning beds. Black Card Members receive a Planet Fitness t-shirt and get to take part in Planet Fitness' Pizza Mondays and Bagel Tuesdays.
"Judgment Free Zone"
Planet Fitness strives to make all fitness members feel welcome, no matter their fitness level. The focal point of Planet Fitness is to eliminate the pressure and stress that comes from "gymtimidation" while participating in fitness training activities. This practice allows for fitness members to work out how and when they want. Going to the gym and feeling like you aren't good enough to be there just doesn't cut it. If you have struggled with that in the past, trying the Planet Fitness service may be your new fitness solution.
Extra Membership Fees
Planet Fitness charges a small $1 enrollment fee for Black Card members and $20–$29 enrollment fee for other members aside from the monthly membership fee. When compared with other gyms in the fitness chain market, Planet fitness stands out. Most gyms charge an enrollment fee or initiation fee of $50 to $100. This makes becoming a member at Planet Fitness very affordable. Customers should be aware that Planet Fitness charges a $39 annual fee that is typically assessed in October. This fee is affordable for people on a budget when contrasted with the majority of fitness companies who charge hidden fees of $75 or more.
Equipment
Generally, there is always enough gym equipment (machines, strength equipment, and weights) for everyone. Planet Fitness has a lot of cardio machines, free weights of up to 80 lbs., curl bars, and other strength training equipment. The machines and equipment are adequate for the average gym user and is kept clean. Cardio machines are abundant which is a major advantage since many gyms do not provide enough of them. Treadmills are available with personal televisions for fitness members' use. Other features that may be of interest to potential customers are tanning beds, a Planet Fitness Gym App, and personal training.
Planet Fitness Locations
Planet Fitness has over 1,500 locations across all 50 states in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. This makes it easy for members who spend their time traveling or for those who move to a different state to find a Planet Fitness club near them.
The Bad
- Limited Classes
- Lunk Alarm
Limited Classes
While Planet Fitness offers some workout classes, they are smaller and much less diverse than some people may be used to. While many other gyms offer yoga, cycling, Zumba, barre, and many other classes, Planet Fitness generally provides classes that focus on specific muscle workouts. The main purpose of the classes is to help new members learn how to use the equipment or design their own individual workout plan. Still, many gym-goers enjoy having the option to pick from various classes and appreciate the social aspect of a group workout. Planet Fitness claims that it appeals to average gym member, but the limited class options suggest it caters more towards those who want to focus on just working out and not to those who want a more socially interactive workout.
Lunk Alarm
Planet Fitness prides itself on the fact that it caters to the average person and provides a "Judgement Free Zone." However, some members may feel that the lunk alarm—an alarm that goes off whenever someone drops their weights, acts aggressively, carries a gallon jug of water, or grunts excessively and too loudly—directly goes against their no-judgment policy. It is possible that members may feel that the lunk alarm unfairly stereotypes those who want to put a little extra effort into their workout.
The Bottom Line
Planet Fitness is the most affordable gym on the market at $10 to $22.99 per month. Their additional fees are minuscule compared to most gyms, making becoming a Planet Fitness member exceptionally affordable — even on a smaller budget.
Planet Fitness may be the most affordable, but this comes with no frills. It lacks the amenities most gyms offer such as pools, tennis courts, childcare, saunas, etc. The company also does not provide a variety of group fitness classes, which is a huge attraction for most gym-goers. If you're looking to work out on your own and don't want to spend a lot of money on a gym membership, Planet Fitness is recommended; however, if you're looking for nutritional coaching and/or fitness classes like Zumba or Yoga, we recommend finding another gym that costs more, since Planet Fitness does not provide these membership benefits.
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User Reviews
Star Rating
309 Reviews
Review Breakdown
Sentiment Criteria
Olivia Oswald
Planet fitness includes everyone. I love their motto and the atmosphere. I always feel comfortable working out at planet fitness.
amy rex
I love the quiet small gym atmosphere. Perfect for the regular person wanting to get in shape. Little weird that they have cake and pizza party's
Lindsey Newman
I used planet fitness for a week. And I really was not a fan. The customer service was fine, but nothing special.. and I didn’t feel the energy there that I do in other gyms. It was pretty static.
Donna
Really enjoyed my time at planet fitness. The staff were very helpful and well infomedvery clean
Caleb Moore
sooo much better than gold's! they are very welcoming and the tanning beds are a great perk!
SavorTheGlory
I go to planet fitness and have had only good workouts and customer service every time I’ve went👍🏻.
David T
Planet Fitness is a good gym. They have a good variety of equipment and trainings, but they are a little more expensive than some other decent gyms. I think their pizza nights, etc. are a little weird, but I look past that.
Dillbrow
It does what it advertises, a place to workout without the pressure or environment that comes with a gym membership. Only complaint is that there are no free weights, only machines.
Audrey Mitchell
There as so many machines and equipment ready to use which is awesome. they keep the machines clean and working properly
Jaida Williams
Clean facilities. There are numerous options to choose from in terms of exercise equipment and amenities.
Jake Comstock
Wasn’t super pleased with this gym. They have a lack of equipment and seem very strict. I always dreaded going into this gym.
Amanda
Although Plant Fitness offer lower prices than other gyms I’ve been to, I find that the quality is also lower.
Angelina Hamilton
Love that this is open 24 hours. I can go before the kids get up and really gets my morning started!
Piper Whitsitt
Traveled all over the US for business. There was always a Planet Fitness nearby send all were clean nice places to workout.
Juliann Mecham
I honestly am a big fan of planet fitness. I feel like it really does offer what it advertises, and you can get a good workout in a solid gym, I would recommend.
Eddie Rios
Planet Fitness is a superb gym partner. My membership afforded complete access to all equipment, and classes available. Their training staff were all highly athletic and motivational. They provided precise assistance with health goal accomplishment. If fitness is important, then Planet Fitness is the right gym.
Makayla Manus
Great gym. They offer so many workout plans. The employees are great, and while on the more expensive side, it's totally worth it.
Kayla
Nice environment to work out in. Plenty of options for equipment and good workout 30 minute set up
Jarrett Ingram
Planet Fitness was a mixed experience for me. For one, there are no scales anywhere in the gym. This doesn’t make sense to me. Also, I saw signs everywhere banning certain types of tank tops, jugs of water etc. It seems as though it’s a gym that doesn’t really want people to get fit. Even so, the price alone makes it worthwhile.
Tiffany I
Cheap and convenient. My husband goes to this gym religiously. It has everything he needs at a fraction of what other gyms charge.
Ezequiel
I wasn't very happy with this gym. In addition, canceling the service was kind of a pain and took more effort thant it should have.
Toni Baker
I go to planet fitness on my Silvers Slipper pass the people there help you out show you how to live lift weights
Bill Nelson
Lots of convenient locations. Great value for the money. No contracts is the way to go.
Joseph Vessel
Not even mad... Just Very Disappointed! So, I've been a member at planet fitness for two years now. In 2018, I changed banks and immediately gave planet fitness my new banking information. For 2 months they attempted to retrieve the monthly fee through my old account and each time they tried it incurred a $10 late fee. I addressed this with the Baton Rouge, La, Plank Road location several times; my now former home gym. I thought the matter was cleared up. So today, my 3rd time this week going to Siegen lane location in Baton Rouge, I was denied access after paying these people $24.24 for what seemed like forever... not even the special $10 or $19 price like most people have... I was told I have to pay the balance that was not my fault.... I was handled as if I'd stolen a membership card and tried to workout for free. The guy at the front desk refused to even listen. AND!! I've been working out there throughout 2019, and this is the 1st I hear of any balance. Planet fitness will never get the money because it was a negligence on their end. This is my 2nd bad experience with Planet Fit. If it was my fault, I would've paid the money in 2018.... Two years will not make a difference.... I'll have to pay a little more for Snap or Anytime fitness... After being treated like I was this morning.... Definitely Worth the cost.... And planet fitness isn't a bad gym..... Their billing department apparently sucks! Take care y'all!
terryjamison
Great gym for the fee monthly. Everyone is helpful with workout and dieting!! Great gym
Jesse Rice
This gym is reasonably priced and usually clean, with good hours, but don't expect the employees to have a clue about anything or a desire to assist. Their billing sounds good but in fact they do it in a way that will refuse to cancel and they will change your rates without notice. I had to change my bank account just to cancel it.
Tori smith
Very cheap prices but don’t offer that much equipment. Not worth it to me. Also too busy there
Danielle Powell
The work out area is always clean and ready to use. Lots of equipment and the quick workout option is nice. Tanning beds never seem to work well enough
Madison Kneiss
GOOD PRICE FRIENDLY STAFF AND TRAINERS CLEAN FACILITIES LARGE SELECTION OF EQIUPMENT
Clayton Parry
Don't make any sounds whatsoever whilst working out. If you do, you will be asked to leave.
Karen Hartnack
Several locations in area good prices alot help with questions and instruction on equipment t
Jimmy Hall
Planet fitness is one of the best gyms to work out at its 10 dollars a month and it has everything that you trying to work on.
Rai Durant
Definitely a place for gym newbies to go to! I feel so encouraged to go to the gym because of all the support I receive!
Cam McClellan
An overall clean gym with decent equipment at Planet Fitness. Sometimes the workers can be a bit over the top with rules, but it wasn’t as bad as some of my friends led me to believe.
Madison Kneiss
They refuse to let you have a membership if you do not have a checking account, even if you have a credit card. The staff I have dealt with at numerous locations are rude and not helpful at all
Allison Campbell
Planet fitness is a great gym. They have great equipment and great people working there. It's a judge free zone.
SkylarPickens
Planet Fitness is the best! Great customer service and all the workout equipment is up to date!
Asia Bui
I used to have a membership at planet fitness and their gyms are super nice and have a good variety of workout equipment. I had to change gyms because it was too far
ChanceyParker
I’ve been a few times with a friend and it was true to its name of being intimidation free.
J-9
Until they offer other payment arrangements other than checking accounts, they are corrupt. They keep taking money even after people cancel. This is why they want a checking account because most people won’t shut down their account to stop the payments quickly so they get more money. I just want to pay for the year up front but they don’t want to do that. Every other gym in town will do this so I guess I go there instead.
Zac Cannon
A friend let me visit on their account as a guest once. The equipment was nice, clean, and updated. The atmosphere was not intimidating at all and the people that run the place were helpful and nice!
Madelyn
I adore planet fitness. It offers something for everybody. No matter your size or shape, you are there to workout like everyone else. You are not being judged. And it's clean and employees are always happy to lend you a hand..
Beth J
Rules about bringing minor guest unclear or not easy to find in theit website.
Christyan Bennett
Planet Fitness is definitely one of the better gyms. The workers are always there to help with any basic questions. The gym is always kept clean and tidy unlike gyms Ive been to before. Would recommend this gym to anyone who wants to workout in front of a smaller group of people and to those who enjoy low gym membership prices.
Austin Ellis
I appreciate the costs of being a member, and I like how many workout instruments there are to use.
Wendy Liu
Awesome gym to go do your workout, very clean, nice place! I’ve been a member of Vic Tanny and Bally and many other gyms over the years, and this is by far the best deal I’ve ever seen! The staff is very pleasant and courteous and helpful!! All the equipment is very well maintained and gets the job done.
Luna
They have good equipment and it creates a friendly environment for you to meet new friends while getting a fit body. It is a good gym.
Jin The Eomma
Definitely my one place to work out. They don’t judge. As most people like myself are afraid of being judged.
Austin Hysmith
Good equipment. They have classes where you can set up a schedule and get with a personal trainer to get you fit. It is a good gym.
Rebecca Harvey
I think this gym shouldn’t offer like pizza nights and sugary drinks for purchase. The gyms are always so overcrowded too because of their super cheap price.