Planet Fitness is one of the largest fitness center franchises in the nation. The gym company has over 2,000 clubs across all 50 states. You may know them for their “No Judgement Zone” claims along with their branded purple and yellow equipment across the clubs. Membership prices are notoriously low, but you may wonder if signing up for a membership is worth it compared to other gyms.
A Planet Fitness membership is worth the cost for someone looking for a relatively inexpensive gym membership. You can opt for No Commitment, Classic, or a PF Black Card Membership. Prices range from $10-$24 per month. Depending on your membership, amenities can include access to weightlifting and cardio equipment, massage chairs, tanning beds, and the ability to bring a guest.
If you’re interested in learning all there is to know about a Planet Fitness Membership, keep reading along. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of a PF membership, who should sign up, and alternative gyms to Planet Fitness.
Contents
- What Are the Benefits of a Planet Fitness Membership?
- Disadvantages of a Planet Fitness Membership
- Equipment at Planet Fitness
- Classes Offered at Planet Fitness
- Is Planet Fitness a Good Gym to Lose Weight?
- Is Planet Fitness Good for Weightlifting?
- Who is Planet Fitness Good For?
- Planet Fitness Membership Cost
- Why Is Planet Fitness So Cheap?
- Are Planet Fitness Memberships Hard to Cancel?
- Is Personal Training at Planet Fitness Worth It?
- Top 5 Alternatives to Planet Fitness
What Are the Benefits of a Planet Fitness Membership?
Still trying to decide if Planet Fitness is right for you? Let’s look at a breakdown of the benefits or “pros” of signing up for a Planet Fitness membership.
1. Cost of Membership
The cost of a Planet Fitness Membership has been their claim to fame for many years. Planet Fitness strives to provide an accessible gym to everyone by offering its services at a low cost. You’ll have a hard time finding a gym that beats their membership prices.
There are three membership options, with the cheapest starting at just $10 per month. Compared to competitors with prices such as $24, $50, and even $100 a month – this is definitely a budget-friendly gym.
2. Ability to Choose Membership Levels
As we said before, there are three levels of membership options for those signing up at Planet Fitness. A classic membership starts at just $10 per month. This includes unlimited access to the club and its equipment. If you are looking for more amenities such as tanning and guest passes, you can upgrade to the PF Black Card, which is $24 per month. This is the most expensive membership option.
If you are on the fence about committing to the membership for a whole year, a great option is the “No Commitment Membership,” which costs $15 per month and allows you to cancel at any time with no fees.
3. Amenities
Planet Fitness prides itself on being a “no frills” gym, which is why it can offer memberships at such a low cost. Even with this mentality, they still manage to provide members with essential gym amenities.
You can enjoy tanning beds, locker rooms, hydro massages, massage chairs, fitness introductory classes, fitness apparel discounts, and more by signing up for a membership.
4. Variety of Trainer-Led Classes Available
Planet Fitness offers a series of trainer-led classes called “PE@PF.” These classes range from introduction to fitness and equipment to 30-minute express circuits. They provide targeted exercises for a specific muscle group. This is the perfect series of workouts for someone who is new to the fitness world and intimidated by gym equipment!
Disadvantages of a Planet Fitness Membership
Planet Fitness is the perfect gym membership for someone looking for a no-frills gym. Of course, this gym experience is not for everyone. With each fitness club, there are disadvantages or “cons” to signing up. Take a look at the list of cons of a Planet Fitness Membership:
1. Limited Barbells and Free Weights
Planet Fitness has a wide array of cardio equipment. You will find plenty of treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes. But, when it comes to barbells, Olympic weights, or squat racks, Planet Fitness falls short.
This disadvantage depends on the type of fitness you are interested in. For cardio lovers, this may not be a con at all! However, if you are looking to get into weightlifting, you might want to reconsider a membership or look at other options.
2. Limit of Amenities
Some gym goers want all the bells and whistles when it comes to amenities. While Planet Fitness does have a few, it does not compare to other gym franchises that offer pools, saunas, tennis and basketball courts, or even lounge and cafe areas.
3. No Childcare
If you are a parent, you know that childcare is a big element when it comes to your workout. It can make or break your ability to get a “sweat” in that day. Planet Fitness currently does not offer any type of childcare, unlike some gyms that have a play area staffed with individuals to keep an eye on your child. If you choose to sign up for Planet Fitness, you’ll have to leave the kids home with a sitter.
Equipment at Planet Fitness
The equipment at Planet Fitness will vary slightly by location, but one thing you can count on is the color. A sea of purple and yellow equipment awaits you! Let’s break down what you can expect to find at the average Planet Fitness.
Cardiovascular
There is an abundance of cardiovascular equipment at Planet Fitness. This is because most Planet Fitness members are beginners when it comes to fitness, and cardio is the least intimidating place to start. (Almost anyone can walk on a treadmill!) If you are a lover of cardio, you will have no issue finding somewhere to work out at PF.
The cardio equipment you can find at Planet Fitness are:
- Treadmills
- Ellipticals
- Bikes
- Stair Steppers
Resistance and Weights
When it comes to equipment like resistance machines or free weights, Planet Fitness also offers these, but not at the volume of cardio machines. Additionally, as we mentioned before, Planet Fitness does not offer any type of barbell or squat rack. You can find dumbbells as well as the following resistance machines:
- Abdominal Machine
- Pec Deck
- Chest Press
- Bicep Curl Machine
- Leg Press
- Smith Machine
Classes Offered at Planet Fitness
PE@PF is Planet Fitness’ series of trainer-led workout classes for members of all activity levels. Each Planet Fitness location offers between 11 to 14 sessions each day. The classes are small groups that are led by a trainer. Members can attend unlimited classes. There are various types of classes, from orientation to targeted muscle groups.
Below is a list of the classes Planet Fitness offers:
1. Orientation
Perfect for someone who is new to fitness training. This class will go through how to use gym equipment properly, proper form, and a workout routine that is right for you.
2. 30-Minute Express Circuit
This is a fast-paced, full-body workout that combines strength and cardio. You can think of this as a HIIT-style class. Perfect for someone who wants an intense workout that will burn a ton of calories.
3. Stretch
This class is perfect for post-workout recovery or someone who wants to focus on flexibility. While most workout classes focus on the workout itself, they tend to neglect recovery. Planet Fitness recommends this class so that you can continue to work out without injuries.
4. Strength-Based Classes
These classes are designed to provide a strength workout to the designated muscle groups. Each class focuses on a particular part of your body to target and build the muscles within that group. The classes break down the following muscle groups:
- Chest and Biceps – train your pectorals and biceps with curls and presses
- Back and Triceps – strengthen your latissimus dorsi and triceps
- Legs and Shoulders – an upper and lower body workout to provide balance
- Core – tone your abdominals, obliques, and lower back
Planet Fitness unfortunately does not offer group classes such as Yoga, Pilates, Spin, or Zumba classes like some of its competitors. If you are a lover of group classes, this might be a disadvantage for you.
Is Planet Fitness a Good Gym to Lose Weight?
If weight loss is your goal, you can definitely achieve it at Planet Fitness. However, the amount of weight you lose will be determined by the amount of work you put in! The best gym for weight loss is one that you consistently enjoy going to. This is because it is easier to create a routine if you enjoy an activity.
Losing weight is a science that incorporates a number of factors. Your age, gender, level of activity, and caloric intake come into play when losing weight. Ultimately, the number of calories consumed should be lower than the number of calories burned.
The most efficient way to burn calories is through cardiovascular exercises. Running is one of the exercises that burns the most calories in the shortest amount of time. Because Planet Fitness offers tons of treadmills, you can easily lose weight by taking advantage of membership here.
Is Planet Fitness Good for Weightlifting?
If you are looking to build muscle and strength, Planet Fitness might not be the right choice for you.
Planet Fitness is a fine option for those just beginning their weightlifting journey. If you don’t want to be intimidated by body-building competitors surrounding your space, this is the perfect place to start. This is because their equipment and policies are limiting when it comes to weightlifting.
Planet Fitness offers dumbbells and resistance machines, but these items are limited. Dumbbells only go to about 50 lbs. Additionally, there are not nearly as many resistance machines as there are cardio machines. Once you start lifting heavy weights, you will probably outgrow Planet Fitness equipment.
Planet Fitness is known for its “no judgment” and “beginner” atmosphere, which means it won’t allow slamming weights or super heavy weightlifting. This is why there is no equipment in regard to barbells or squat racks.
Who is Planet Fitness Good For?
Planet Fitness is the perfect place for someone who is new to the world of fitness and working out.
Since its conception, Planet Fitness has prided itself on providing a “No Judgement Zone” for gym goers. This means that you won’t feel the typical stigma of insecurity when going to a gym.
Through research, Planet Fitness found that first-time and casual gym users didn’t like the attitudes found in typical gyms. Additionally, they didn’t want to have to pay a lot of money or commit to a long period of membership if they decided the lifestyle wasn’t for them. This is why Planet Fitness created a gym with a beginner-friendly attitude.
As we mentioned early, Planet Fitness provides orientation classes for those who aren’t sure how to properly work the gym equipment. Planet Fitness is also great for the cardio lover, as they have plenty of treadmills and ellipticals in each of their locations.
If you’re someone who needs their fitness to fit into a budget, Planet Fitness will also be a great option. Their memberships start at $10 per month.
Planet Fitness Membership Cost
Planet Fitness has three membership levels. Individuals can choose from Classic, No Commitment, and PF Black Card. Each level comes with its specific monthly cost, annual fee, start-up fee, and list of amenities.
Below is a chart that shows the details of each membership level:
| Membership Level | Amenities | Monthly Cost | Annual Fee | Start Up Fee | Commitment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | ●Unlimited Access to Home Club ●PF App Workouts ●Free Fitness Training ●Free WiFi | $10 | $39 | $29 | 12 months |
| No Commitment | ●Unlimited Access to Home Club ●PF App Workouts ●Free Fitness Training ●Free WiFi | $15 | $39 | $39 | None |
| PF Black Card | ●Unlimited Access to Home Club ●PF App Workouts ●Free Fitness Training ●Free WiFi ●Bring a Guest Anytime ● Use of Any Planet Fitness Worldwide ● Use of Tanning ● Use of Massage Chairs ● Use of HydroMassage ● Use of Total Body Enhancement ● 50% Off Select Drinks ● 20% off at Reebok.com | $24.99 | $39 | $1 | None |
Is PF Black Worth It?
PF Black is the top tier of membership at Planet Fitness. It provides a number of amenities and perks that sets itself apart from the other membership levels at just $24.99.
To decide whether PF Black is worth it, it’s important to consider which amenities you will use. If you have an interest in tanning, use of massage chairs and hydro massage, using multiple locations across the nation, or bringing a guest with you – then PF Black will definitely be a great option for you.
Additionally, a huge benefit to the membership is the fact that there is no commitment, meaning you can cancel at any time without having to pay a fee, compared to the Classic Membership.
Why Is Planet Fitness So Cheap?
Many people ask the question “Why is Planet Fitness so cheap?”
Planet Fitness is affordable because of the main principals that Planet Fitness founded its gym on in 1992. The goal was to provide a fitness center without the intimidation of typical gym goers and high membership prices that scared off beginners in the past.
Throughout its history, Planet Fitness has consistently provided budget-friendly membership costs to its members. This business model could be a large contribution to why Planet Fitness is one of the fastest growing fitness franchises in the nation.
Are Planet Fitness Memberships Hard to Cancel?
At some point, you may want to cancel your gym membership at Planet Fitness. Whether you want to graduate to more professional equipment, a different selection of classes, or want to take a break from your fitness journey – it is bound to happen at some point.
No Commitment
There are two types of memberships at Planet Fitness that do not require a time commitment. This means you can cancel your membership at any time without cancellation fees. The payments charged to your account will stop on the next billing cycle. All you have to do is call or show up to your gym in person, this varies by location.
12-month Commitment
The Classic Membership requires a 12-month commitment. This means that you will be billed for 12 billing cycles. If you do not want to continue after 12 cycles or months, there is no charge for you choosing not to renew the membership. However, if you want to cancel your membership prior to the 12 months, a cancellation fee will occur.
Is Personal Training at Planet Fitness Worth It?
Planet Fitness offers semi-personal training sessions and resources. Be signing up for a “Design Your Own Program” session, you can work with a trainer to create a customized workout program for you to follow on your own. They will take your fitness goals, medical background, and exercise history into account when creating the program. This is great for someone just getting started.
If you need a little more guidance when it comes to how to work out, the PE@PF classes are led by a trainer in small groups. There are no “one-on-one” personal training classes offered at Planet Fitness, so this is not a great option if you are looking for a true personal trainer experience.
Top 5 Alternatives to Planet Fitness
To decide which gym membership is right for you, it’s best to consider all your options. These are the top five alternative gyms to Planet Fitness. We have broken down detailed information on the membership cost, equipment available, amenities and group/personal training offered compared to Planet Fitness. Take a look:
1. Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness is known for its basic level of equipment and amenities, similar to those at Planet Fitness. There are 4,000 locations across 50 states. The best part about Anytime Fitness is that all locations are open 24/7. Membership fees range from $30-$45.
Amenities at Anytime Fitness vary by location but can include tanning beds, one-on-one training sessions, and group classes such as spin, cardio, and Zumba.
2. Crunch Fitness
There are only 400 Crunch Fitness locations, so these may be harder to come by than a Planet Fitness. If you have one in your area, there are a few reasons to consider a membership. Monthly costs range from $9.99-$29.99 with three levels of membership. Crunch Fitness is one of the most inexpensive options on our list.
Tanning, guest passes, hydro massages and personal training are among some of the amenities offered. Crunch also offers more group class options than Planet Fitness, including cardio, action sports, aerial, yoga, dance classes, spin class and HIIT. Equipment at Crunch Fitness includes cardiovascular, free weights, and resistance machines.
3. LA Fitness
LA Fitness locations are typically large facilities with Olympic swimming pools, basketball and tennis courts, and running tracks. Group classes include Pilates, Spin, SeniorFit, Kickboxing, HIIT, Cardio and more. You can also sign up for personal training. LA Fitness has a wide variety of cardio, weight and resistance equipment as well as studio spaces.
There are 700 LA Fitness locations across the United States and Canada. Depending on your membership, monthly costs range from about $35-$45. Amenities include the pool, sauna and spa.
4. Gold’s Gym
Gold’s Gym is an international co-ed gym facility created by Joe Gold in Venice Beach, California. It’s known for bodybuilders and those looking to compete for their weightlifting training. If you’re serious about strength training, this is where you will want to be. Although bodybuilding is their primary, they also offer classic equipment for cardio such as treadmills, ellipticals and rowers.
Group classes such as Body Pump, Zumba and Spin are available at Gold’s Gym. You can also sign up for personal training. The membership is month-to-month, meaning you don’t have to worry about a contract. The classic plan is $25, and $35 if you want access to multiple locations.
5. 24 Hour Fitness
24 Hour Fitness only has 287 locations in the United States, so you may have trouble finding one near you. If you do live close by, you can take advantage memberships that start at just $20 a month. 24 Hour Fitness offers tons of studio classes, virtual and on-demand classes and personal training.
Some locations have amenities including lap pools, saunas, turf zones, and basketball courts. These vary by location so it’s best to reach out to your specific gym to see which amenities are offered.