For many, a gym membership is a significant decision, as people like to weigh their options. Among various fitness centres, one option is Planet Fitness.
Planet Fitness has earned a reputation for being pretty affordable and a little different regarding fitness. It does have some pros and cons, though, like any gym. If you’re considering a membership to Planet Fitness, here’s a closer look at what you can expect.
Pros of Planet Fitness
Here are the advantages of getting a Planet Fitness gym membership:
1. Reasonable Pricing
One of the most significant advantages of Planet Fitness is its pricing model. With a basic membership costing only $10.94 per month, it is one of the most affordable options available.
This membership grants full access to the gym and the Planet Fitness app, which offers a range of features to enhance your workout experience. For those who want more, the “Black Card” membership offers $25 a month for tanning beds, massage chairs, and the ability to bring a guest for free.
2. Types of Equipment
Most Planet Fitness locations have several different types of equipment available to members. Most have several cardio machines, multiple weighted machines, and more than one cable machine.
This amount of variety is fine for an overall, well-rounded workout for most who frequently go to the gym. While some members wish they had certain kinds of equipment that they do not, most find what they need to reach their goals.
3. Space
Most of the Planet Fitness gyms are uniquely large and spacious in their layouts. This is especially helpful for those who would not like to feel crowded while working out.
Accommodating enough space for machines and activities will ensure that members do not experience discomfort with every passing minute of proximity to others. Moreover, this spaciousness makes it more enjoyable, at least for those who become intimidated in cramped settings.
4. Special Amenities
Additional rewards start to show up when customers take up the Black Card membership. Tanning beds and massage chairs aren’t something every individual prefers, yet they help create a whole different experience after a workout. Let’s not forget the fact that they let one bring a guest for free of cost, which is a huge plus for many people who like to hit the gym with friends or family.
Cons of Planet Fitness
While thinking of Planet Fitness, you need to also consider the cons, below are they:
1. Hidden Fees
While the monthly rate is not terrible, several of these members are a bit surprised by the additional fees that come with signing up. Many new members have reported miscellaneous fees that add up rather quickly.
For example, those who have signed up for the basic membership sometimes find an additional $110.74 fee tacked onto the monthly rate. This hidden fee aspect frustrates new members because it isn’t very up-front.
2. Poor Equipment Choices
With the diversity in machines, some eminent pieces of equipment are not available. Perhaps the biggest drawback of a Planet Fitness membership is that there are no free-standing squat racks.
In their place, many locations offer Smith machines, which are less functional for some lifters. And the free weights that are provided are not suitable for everyone, since many of them have an unusual design that makes them awkward to use for some people.
3. Atmosphere and Culture
Planet Fitness markets itself as a “Judgement Free Zone,” which has been the case for much of its advertising strategy. While that slogan is to help make the environment non-intimidating, many members of this gym have argued such an attitude invites other forms of judgment.
For example, some gyms have a “Lunk Alarm” for when people drop weights that are too heavy; to some, this comes off as shaming those individuals who take their fitness seriously. This environment may not suit individuals who do better in competitive settings.
4. Lack of Community Vibe
If you’re somebody who loves to have a good fitness community and a good vibe with others then Planet Fitness probably isn’t the right fit for you. It’s not that it’s not possible to make friends, but it’s more or less engaging than some other boutique gyms or studios because they have such a strong focus on community. You might leave feeling less complete if you use motivation from other people.
In the end, Planet Fitness has its pros and cons. For many, the affordability, variety of equipment, and spacious environment make it very attractive. However, for some, the hidden fees, limitations in equipment, and the culture of the gym may not appeal to their preference.
If you are considering joining Planet Fitness, it is well worth utilizing their day pass to experience the facility yourself. That way, you will know whether or not it fits your needs without having to pay one dime. For those who are still trying to find out what works for them, Planet Fitness is a good safety net.
Ultimately, for those on a budget who just want a good-enough gym with decent equipment and a space to work out in, Planet Fitness may be a good fit. If you need a more competitive atmosphere or specialized equipment, look elsewhere before committing to this gym.
