Planet Fitness
Is This Your Business?3.7
5.5
Overall Score
Author: Kalicia Bateman
LAST UPDATED: April 7th, 2022
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 one of the cheapest gym memberships available at only $10/month for a classic membership. 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. A classic planet fitness membership only allows a member to use one location and doesn’t give access to every perk the gym offers. 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 the planet fitness hydromassage and tanning booth. Black Card Members receive a Planet Fitness t-shirt and get to take part in Planet Fitness' Pizza Mondays and Bagel Tuesdays. Each black card member can also bring a guest to any planet fitness location each time they go.
"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 Planet Fitness 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 membership 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 weight machines and equipment are adequate for the average gym user and are kept clean.
Cardio equipment is abundant which is a major advantage since many gyms do not provide enough. 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 the 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 one of the most affordable gyms 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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Audrey Reid Houston, TX
On 3/31/22 i enrolled online for a Black card membership. I signed up for a new member orientation for 4/1/22 so i could be introduced to the machines. I went to my home gym at Kuykendahl Rd in Spring Texas. I arrived on time for my 9:30 am appointment, checked in and i was told to wait, someone would be right with me. 10 minutes later at 9:40 i was told to go over to the 30 minute work out area, someone would meet me there. I waited over there till 9:50 am and no one showed up. There was a client who was waiting before i came in and while i was there waiting i saw him being given a tour of the equipments. I thought that someone would see me after his tour but no one came. Other people were working out in this area and i felt self conscious standing there like a fool. I went back to the front desk to let them know how displeased i was and i asked how could i cancel a membership that i just started.l had also booked a stretch session at 10:30 am which i told them to cancel because at this point this session would also be with Victoria who was a no show for my new member orientation and i was so upset to be treated like i didn’t matter to Planet Fitness. I decided not to meet with her because i did not want my mouth to get the better of me, so i decided on not keeping the appointment. To give readers an insight into the reason why i signed up for a membership… I am a diabetic and last week at my physical / bloodwork my doctor told me that my A1C levels were creeping up and that I should lose some weight. I also feel like i have Arthritis ( non diagnosed), my body is stiff all the time. I decided to do something about it so I could enjoy life and live a longer, healthier life. I was a past member of Planet Fitness years ago so I decided to sign up again. What a disappointment it was for me!!!!! There is a local Boot Camp gym BUT I decided to go with Planet Fitness and blew off the Boot Camp people. Well i was never more embarrassed to be left waiting for such a long time with no one coming to honor the appointment i had. I am not one to play the race card, as I am a confident black woman and i also saw lots of black people in here this morning. I was NOT treated as a valuable customer!!!For whatever the reason Victoria did not honor my appointment today, i am beyond annoyed!!! I took off work today to come to this appointment since it was for health reasons, lost a whole 12 hour shift to be treated like this!!!
To sum it all up, i will not let this experience deter me from my personal goals which is to lose weight and be healthier!!!! but i will definitely check out the Boot Camp gym!!! There you go Planet Fitness as i left , i came to my car and wrote this review in the parking lot.
4 years ago
S S Plainfield, IL
The management at this club SUCKS!! Darcy does NOT care about fixing the problem with the tanning beds. I informed her in January of 2021 and they're STILL BROKEN!! This is mind blowing. I have video proof of every single bed shutting off early all on its own and they STILL won't call the bed repair company to come out and fix it! I've contacted the regional manager Gabby as well and she doesn't care either! Instead of addressing and fixing the issue they chose to ignore this ongoing issue. I've never been treated so rudely at a business before. The owner should know about this problem not only with his tanning beds but also with this poor management team. He'll definitely start losing customers if he chooses to ignore the problem.
4 years ago
O D Pflugerville, TX
Asked a front desk person about my upcoming annual charges, he said not to worry, no extra charges will be taken out besides my monthly membership. A month later I am charged annual fee. Spoke to Location manager who admitted that they had issues with staffing and training and apologized for misinformation but did not offer a refund. Then I spoke to customer service and they said that there was no misinformation given, but rather a miscommunication and the employee must have misunderstood my question (don't see how much clearer the question could be). In addition front desk staff is often absent, so I am not able to get into a massage chair or any other Black Card member amenities. Full disappointment all around.
5 years ago
Tony Reed Tifton, GA
I was a new member at planet fitness. I had visited the club and worked out on three separate occasions with my son prior to these events. The third time I worked out I checked in with the manager, he helped me negotiate the app to check in, we exchanged pleasantries, and I proceeded immediately to the workout floor carrying a small gym bag in FULL view of the supposed manager. The prior two visits I had carried the same small bag. In this bag my son and I use it to contain our keys, phone, gloves, a belt, and most importantly diabetic testing supplies. On this third visit I was told that I was not allowed to have a bag on the workout floor. Mind you, it is not a suitcase. Everything was contained in the bag very neatly and the bag was behind the equipment, not in the path where anybody could have remotely walked near it. An attendant at the club inform me it was against the club policy to have a bag on the workout floor. I have never heard of such a thing in my life…not allowed to have a gym bag in a gym(???)! In my mind that would be analogous to banning pocketbooks in a shopping mall. Anyway, I tried to explain the necessity of the bag only to reach deaf ears. Frustrated, I went immediately to the manager who was quite rude and canceled my membership, as he was unwilling to discuss this matter. The manager even falsified my reason for leaving the club on my cancellation papers, as I suspect to protect his monthly membership performance data.
At this point, I feel violated, even possibly that my ADA protections have been ignored by this club.
So my recommendation to anyone who needs to maintain readily available access to medical equipment consider avoiding this club, because you will have to carry that equipment in hand and let everyone around you know your medical condition(s). Healthcare is supposed to be a private, protected aspect of a person’s life.
There’s a sign on the wall that talks about “judgment free zone” and “acceptance”… I would beg to differ at this point based on my experience, the manager’s rude behavior, and the selective application of their policies (I pointed out three suspected policy concerns just standing at the door canceling my membership only to see them ignored).
5 years ago
Brandon Greer Alexandria, KY
No free barbells so if you want to grow strength you have to do it on a machine or dumbells. Cancellation is a hassle if you don't give 30 days as they will bill you in the middle of their set billing cycle. If you try to stop payments they will void your cancellation request and continue to bill you in their system and send it to collections. Also this "judgement free zone" is quite judgemental if you are try to do any power lifting or make any noise they don't like. If you are looking for a serious gym with actual people that can give fitness advise on site, look elsewhere. If you want to build strength through any power lifting program, don't even consider it.
5 years ago
melissa Naperville, IL
Naperville location - Ogden - 3/2/21
I would highly recommend not doing business with Carlos C. the Club Manger at this location, or anyone in this establishment. We canceled our membership 6 months ago due to Covid and have been charged monthly fees for 10 months. Upon receiving the annual membership fee ($39) we went in and spoke with someone who told us many memberships were suppose to be canceled and were not. It was then recommended we speak with Carlos C. Unfortunately Carlos was the most incompetent manager I have ever spoken to. He showed absolutely no responsibility or effort to try to make things right for the mistakes made. My husband and I were extremely ill with Covid over the past few months and were hoping Planet Fitness would be an establishment that didn't try to take advantage of members and their monies during a vulnerable time. Obviously there was a mistake made and our memberships were not canceled, we simply asked for the annual membership fee charged THIS MONTH to be reimbursed since we are not able to go to the facility. I would recommend looking elsewhere for a gym facility, Carlos is not someone who knows how to treat loyal customers.
Melissa G
5 years ago
Jordan Warren, OH
Planet Fitness does not notify you about anything regarding upcoming withdraws from your account. I froze my planet fitness for 3 months due to medical reasons and the virus. I did not receive any reminder about it ending (as 2020 has already been difficult for me and everyone else to worry about a gym charging your account without courtesy) and was charged. My medical conditions have not changed nor the virus so I still am not comfortable going to the gym. Also, they did not remind me that it was time for my annual fee and charged my account. It is a scam. I would totally stay with Planet Fitness if they didn't charge me so much during this time because its hard enough. I expected decency at least to do so and think about others or at least pretend.
5 years ago
JPL Seattle, WA
Beware! Health safety warning!
During my last session there, I was amazed at the lack of concern of the staff with regard to refilling the sanitizing stations. I stayed there doing my cardio for 55 minutes and noticed at least 3 sanitizing stations had been empty the whole time, only because people were going around trying to find paper towels to clean their equipment. And of course, people gave up trying to clean because they could not find any paper. this was not the first time: I had noticed in the past the staff's lack of concern, and I had made them aware several times of the need to refill paper towels. But this time, it was really frustrating. The country is gripped by covid and we are facing an enormous surge of cases everywhere. People are asked to do the right things, wear masks, socially distance, and on and on. And here at the gym, where people sweat, cough, breath heavily, not one staff did the round of the gym and checked the sanitizing stations the whole time I was there, at least 55 minutes. And Yes I checked the staff desk from time to time. There was always at least one staff doing nothing. When I left, I pointed it out to them that some stations had been out of paper for a long time. But wait, the story does not end there! Then a couple days later, the most outrageous thing happened. I received a phone call from a prickly manager from the gym telling me that I should not tell the staff what they should do because it was his job. See, he did not call me to apologize or at least explain that they were concerned for health safety and the staff was reminded to do their best for "our" safety in these dire times where people are at risk of being infected by a lethal virus. no, no! He called to give me, a worried and helping customer, a teenager-like power struggle downtalk. ooh! boy! I was not a happy camper to say the least...
Very wrong business practice and attitude!!!
5 years ago
Leanne S. Saint Paul, MN
I wish I had gotten the name of the little snot that refused to cancel my membership when it's for severe health issues. If I had known they would make me come in during a plague, when I'm incredibly high risk, and then refuse, I would have contacted the BBB first. I have NEVER had such a horrible experience as with Planet Fitness. Have you dealt with insurance company? They're a treat compared to PF. You have to deal with only the local franchise and I've met ONE person in TWO YEARS that wasn't rude and/or inept. Think twice before you have anything to do with this horror show of a company - ANY other gym, even in a prison, would have to be an improvement. I really, really hope people check the reviews and take them seriously or they will absolutely regret it.
6 years ago
DrippGang Rockford, IL
The issue started over a face mask.
I was 6 feet away from the desk. And they had plastic screening up.
But when i scanned my card. The guy at the front desk said I needed a mask. And I told him this was gym.
Then said you still need a mask in the common area.
And I told him what common area. Once in the locker room and at the weights. I'm taking it off.
Why were a mask for a few feet.
Especially when I'm near no one.
This issue took place around: 4:20 Pm August 21st; 2020. At Planet Fitness on S. Alpine in Rockford Illinois, 61108.
Photographs of the other gentleman leaving Planet Fittness and a video of me in Plantet Fittness working out is and will be available.
Racism.
A white woman named Stephanie followed me around and canceled my membership (after I walked away from her and told her to go find something better to do); because I was wearing pants. Meanwhile a white guy in Pants that were made into shorts worked out peacefully. And was told nothing.
Pictures of the white man in shorts were taken. As he left 30 to 40 minutes later after I was told to leave.
And my lawfirm has been contacted. Along with a full complaint being filed for HARRASMENT & DISCRIMINATION.
The paper she gave me says to not sit on any gym equipment with pants on.
My workout consisted pull-ups; dips, and use of the curl bar.
The Planet Fitness on South Alpine in Rockford Illinois promotes discrimination.
Be advised: The membership paper she gave me has highlighted, "DENIM JEANS OR SHORTS ARE NOT PERMITTED ON THE SEATED STRENGTH EQUIPMENT."
So if I never sat down on any seat equipment. How did I violate the policy.
Especially if I was in the gym for a whole 40 minutes.
6 years ago
SJ 26 Seattle, WA
Will not refund charge!
I am very upset with Planet Fitness because I saw a charge of $31 on my bank account and I didn't even know it was reopening. They say they sent out emails but they have my number. They could have just as easily called or texted me. I wasn't even thinking about going back to the gym. During this pandemic, you wouldn't catch me in there with a hazmat suit! And since I'm not working now, that $31 could have gone toward food or something I actually use! And why the no refund policy? That seems a bit fraudulent to me. And if that isn't enough, I have to either go in to Planet Fitness or go to the post office to send through certifiable mail a request to cancel my membership! I just think the whole situation was handled quite poorly and I will be warning everyone on every platform to beware of ever joining Planet Fitness!
6 years ago
Cat Guidry Panama City, FL
The staff at Planet Fitness is useless! The equipment is always broken and they won’t help you with anything. They don’t rack the weights that are left around. They won’t help you adjust the machines or teach you how to use them. They won’t address any concerns you have. They let people tie up the 30 minute workout room; even though there are signs everywhere telling people that it is for the 30 minute workout only! The trainer that is supposed to come with your membership, is hardly ever or totally not available, and the trainer that has been available lately, is nice enough, but has not had enough training himself and WILL hurt someone if he continues training with the training he has had at this time.
The new policy for masks! It is sooooo stupid. You only have to wear a mask if you are walking the supposed 6 feet between machines. If you are on a machine or just standing near one, you do not have to wear a mask. I was not wearing a mask, because this is a stupid policy. No one is abiding by this policy. I tried to take some pictures just to show the corporate office, and the manager not only came over and called me out about not wearing a mask, but she THREATENED me with calling the police in front of my Mom and other members!!! And later she called me at home to yell at me!
The HIPPA laws don’t let you ask anyone about their medical conditions and if they have a problem wearing a mask and breathing, you are not supposed to make them wear one. I do not have an issue with this and I am sorry for anyone who does, but the manager said it didn’t matter, because Planet Fitness doesn’t allow this as an excuse to not wear a mask anyway and you still have to wear one.
Also, the new policy at Planet Fitness requires that you carry the big heavy bottle of cleaner with you and clean your machines as you go. You were always supposed to clean your machine and towels were provided at cleaning stations throughout the club. I don’t have an issue with that, but I do with carrying around the heavy bottle, plus my own water bottle. And the bottle, if you drop it accidently, comes apart and makes a huge mess. I have neck injuries and have trouble holding on to things, and I have dropped the stupid bottle twice.
I have tried to call the corporate office 5 times and have left at least 3 messages. They do not answer their phones and will not call me back to let me voice my concerns! I told them in my message that I would post these complaints everywhere I could find to pot the online and this is to keep my promise. I am looking into other gyms. I may stay at Planet Fitness if I can get them to address my concerns, but only because they are the least expensive gym. Just know what you are getting into if you join this gym.
6 years ago
jennifer San Antonio, TX
walked in to Planet Fitness in February to cancel membership and was told I needed to do that online.
I got online, and it only let's you change level of membership- not cancel. Of course, went back in person but gym was closed from covid-19. At that point, app was not letting me access any changes since they were temporarily not billing due to covid. Fast forward to July 17, I get $23 monthly fee out of bank account. Then 2 weeks later, Aug 3, another $43 deduction for annual fees. I called gym stating my annual renewal date was in April and I've been trying to cancel membership since before then as to avoid the fee. But was told theres nothing they can do about it. I was very upset about $66 out if my bank account within a 2 week period, for something I was unable to cancel or contact for 3 months because they were closed. However then,"since I was upset and so they could accommodate me, the girl said she COULD go ahead and cancel my membership" . But I thought I had to come in to do that?
The take away is, Apparently they give you the run around to not let you cancel, so you keep getting billed. Yet can adjust the policy when convenient to them. If course, any refund is "out of their hands and "per contract" the annual maintenance fee cannot be refunded. Despite my efforts the past 6 months to avoid this situation. And, there have been no correspondence stating when billing was to resume after closing for covid. POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE !
6 years ago
Nancy K Oklahoma City, OK
Customer service at the Oklahoma City, Brookwood location is absent. When I wanted to cancel I called and was told I would need to go in person. I was told given a courtesy heads up that I needed to go in by the 2/27 to avoid another annual fee. I went on 3/1 and cancelled and was not given a courtesy heads up that I would be billed another annual fee because I came in three days too late. I was surprised by a debit to my checking on 3/2. I contacted the corporate office who said it was a local matter, I contacted the manager, Brian who said it was a corporate matter. He said they have the legal right to bill me because it is embedded somewhere in the contract. It will not be refunded. I would describe the experience as predatory and would never allow them access to my checking account ever again.
6 years ago
Jeremy Murphy Hopkinsville, KY
TERRIBLE SERVICE..... For over 2 years me and my daughter have been going to this location 3-5 days a week.... EVERY DAY we see policy violations, rule violations and rude employees. I have spoke to every manager in these 2 years and today with the Regional Manager... ALL have stated that they can and will do NOTHING about the weight slamming, animal grunting and any other element they state they protect against..... After complaining to local staff today...CONNER, part time employee, advised me to stop harassing employees and he can just cancel my membership if I did not stop.... HARASSING!!!! Asking you to do your job shant be considered harassment...... After spending 30 minutes on the phone with Corporate staff they even advised that there is NOTHING they can or will do about this issue.............. SOOOOOO as the story goes with so many business these days you must complain with your wallet....... I AM OUT!!!!!!!!!! you will NEVER get another dollar from me and I will do everything in my power to sway others from joining your system......... but I should have known this was to be the outcome of dealing with a group of overly sensitive inept millennials...
7 years ago
Jalyssia Fort Worth, TX
I was told when I signed up for the black card membership and that my daughter and was told when we came that she could not because she wasnt 13. I tried to cxl my membership in Feb and was told it would be taken care of. Never was told to fill out a form or a xxl fee. I wasnt charged for March and then was charged from april until now. Called customer service who stated "they are individually owned" and would send word to the franchise. NO ONE reached out to me. I then went today to xxl and was told that I couldnt or shouldn't since km almost at my 12 months and couldnt cxl for free. Even after explaining that I tried to cxl in Feb and hadn't been to any facility since believing it was cxl was told I more than likely wouldnt get ANY of my money back and to come back later in the month to cxl. Very crappy to treat your customers this way. All about money to me and not about fitness or customer service. No matter how cheap the membership their integrity is crap!
7 years ago
Christine Annville, PA
WORST EXPERIENCE EVER LEBANON PA I canceled my membership on the spot.
I joined planet fitness black card membership and was going to the gym for over two weeks and bringing my guest every time and we were allowed to use everything with zero issues until Kassandra would not allow my guest to use anything. The policy and website both state that guest can use everything but the tanning. When I pointed it out to her that the website states that black card members and guests can use everything she decided to tell me that it was bad wording. How do you not honor what the website says. She got sassy with me. Please beware before joining this gym. They DO NOT honor what the website says. Kassandra made my visit absolutely horrible. I would give this gym a zero if it allowed that in the rating. Shame on you Kassandra for standing in the way of someone trying to be healthy. Remember you reap what you sow.
7 years ago
Rubie Boise, ID
Me and two others signed up on the same day. While reading through the terms and conditions, I assumed the $41.43 charge that would be coming up was the grand total for all three of us. Later, I found out that was not the case. This, if fact, was a yearly charge for ALL THREE of us. The lady at the gym failed to mention this. Now, since $41.43 was pulled out there times, separately, I have a $50 overdraft fee. One gentleman was very kind and apologize, but the lady who failed to mention the charges simply said, "it was in the terms and conditions" without any acknowledgment of her failure to mention this. I trusted Planet Fitness with my direct deposit, but now I no longer trust them. I just thought I'd share this story so that this doesn't happen to someone else.
7 years ago
Thomas Agramonte Enfield, CT
My wife joined the gym along with my 16 year old son.They only went ONE TIME in weeks.My wife went to the gym to CANCEL the membership.She was informed that an 80.00 maintenance fee was taken out of her bank account
She closed the account and left quite up set.I AM ON SS DISABILITY.THAT 80.00 REALLY HURT.A couple of months later my wife finds out that PF has been taking money out if her BANK account.They never closed her account.The girl whom she spoke to doesn't work there anymore.I contacted the gym manager who refused to even look at her account.I called the regional manager who NEVER called me back.
7 years ago
Matt Alexandria, VA
Planet fitness has a great, new and clean array of equipment ready to get anyone to sign a contract, and they even got tiny ceiling fans to give the perception and image that they care about user comfort, but when you get down to it, Planet fitness is truly a different experience.
They say that the corporate rule is to set the thermostat to 68-72F. Well guess what? Most independent franchises choose the 72 F because they would rather save a nickel on their electric bill than to provide user comfort! And if you complain, corporate says each franchise is independently owned and therefore they can essentially do whatever they want. Even moreover, if you dare to look at one of their thermostats (assuming they are not locked away in an employee room or whatever), you will likely get a threatening shout and reprimand from one of their employees telling you that peeking at the thermostats is not allowed and doing so can result in disciplinary action! In other words, Planet Fitness seems to be treating their thermostat readings as a Trade Secret of theirs that if you violate it, you get subject to disciplinary action.
Even more so, their tiny ceiling fans provide negligible long term comfort. If you go in there to be cute and pick up a partner or stretch, it won't matter, but if you jog for more than 10 minutes, even at a low speed, it is a big deal. Because there is essentially no substantial circulation (which is unlike outdoors where there is often a circulation) and because often the temperature in their facilities is in the 70 to 80F range, you will sweat profusely and unnecessarily after about 10 minutes of said mild jogging. My routine is 40 minutes, and often my T shirt is thoroughly soaked after that or I have to cut my routine short because of the uncomfortable hot and stuffy atmosphere in their thrifty establishments.
If you ask if you can bring in a personal fan, even if it is battery operated, and the result is always the same "NO", we can not allow that.
Planet Fitness promotes short term relationships and greed and profit by minimizing their electric bill over customer comfort and safety. But when it comes to customer comfort to anyone who seriously works out, it is "you don't matter in our scheme" or some threat of disciplinary action or whatever.
If you have the resources, buy a treadmill, install it in your basement of your own home and buy an electric fan. Planet Fitness has no interest in your comfort or safety! This is because your comfort and safety conflicts with their goal of maximizing profits by using the Iron Fist on their customers and by minimizing their electric bill.
7 years ago
Matt Alexandria, VA
Went to the gym on Telegraph Road (Hayfield shopping center) in Alexandria VA at 3PM on Sat August 8. Tried checking in several times but their scanners would not work. Proceeded to work out. When I got home, I got an email saying they (Shalia) cancelled my membership because they said I violated policy by not checking in and was rude about it. I couldn't check in because their system would not let me! And how can I be rude if I never said a word! Maybe my problem is that I did not give Shalia enough attention and I just tried to mind my own business. And I tried calling and there was no one to help me with this! I then called around Planet Fitness and all I was told is 1) it is within my contract for them to do this to me and 2) if I have a problem, I should see the manager.
The problem is is that Shalia is the manager and she refused to reverse the cancellation. Summarily tried, convicted and executed.
In Planet Fitness, all you have to do is rub someone the wrong way to get the boot. It happened to me and it can happen to you too!
Buyer Beware!!
7 years ago Edited September 14, 2021
Andrea Wichita, KS
Planet fitness for only $10 month. It ends up being a nightmare when you're trying to cancel out they come up with all kinds of stuff even pull up fake accounts. I would rather pay the YMCA $50 a month in have that peace of mind when I wanna walk away I can. My situation was I decided not to renew my contract or whatever it was I had read that You will be charged a fee which is an annual fee in February. I attempted the cancel starting in December long story short by the time I was finally able to cancel it was after February 1st and they had already taking out Their money. Which was technically not theirs I was able to get canceled and I am finding back for 2 months of fees and that 40 some a dollar fee. It's not worth it it's just not.
7 years ago
Chilly Colorado Colorado Springs, CO
Lesson learned--don't give money to a business when you cannot get contact information for the main office. Good luck finding corporate information if you have problems with the local office-- Info@planetfitness.com is the best I found. I called in advance of starting a membership. I was told my son, under 16, was able to use my membership (homebound and disabled) without me present. I started a membership and was then told he could not attend without me. I am now told I have to pay for a full year's charges before cancelling. On top of that, I was given 3 options: come in to cancel, go to a post office and get a certified letter, or go to a Drs office and pay for an appointment in order to get a medical exemption-- all inconvenient, unacceptable and/or an unnecessary expense for a disabled person. If they allow you to sign up online with an e-signature, why is that not sufficient to cancel a membership? The managers at the Airport location in Colorado Springs, Jill and Miguel, said they need a 'real' signature. E-signatures are sufficient for withdrawing the membership fees (or for taxes and legal documents), why are they not sufficient for Planet Fitness? They throw the contract in my face, but then say they would violate it by allowing a hand-carried/not mailed, uncertified letter from me(???), so why detail the steps in the first place? They can violate it 'a little to help me', but we cannot violate it at all? Violating a contract 1% is legally the same as violating it 100%. They dared to threaten me if I cancel the charges through my bank. They play by their own rules, so what is to stop them from violating ANY CONTRACT? They should have been honest from the start... before taking hundreds of dollars from my account without one day of use. This company is not honest, cannot be trusted, and takes advantage of disabled people. ADA. DO NOT TRUST THEM!!!
7 years ago
Jeremiah Lexington, SC
Basic gym, only smith machines, staff is too afraid to correct anyone doing stupid, unrealistic exercises because of judgment free zone.
My gripe, is I got the black card for the purpose of travel to any planet fitness, when I was living in Houston. The cost is already exuberant , 10$ a month, plus the 80$ and then a random 42$ (something like that) . But the biggest kicker is I live in SC now, you can't cancel your membership at any PF, it would be the original one I had in Houston, now I have to send a certified letter to cancel my membership. I can cancel a loan, credit card, even adopt a kid with a phone call. Total inconvenience and archaic method. I will not be recommending PF to anyone based on , cancellation, billing and inconvenience especially for paying higher membership fees.
7 years ago
E Stanton, CA
If I could give them less than 1 star I would. Planet Fitness makes it easy to sign up but virtually impossible to cancel. I was told I need to come I to the location or send a certified letter in the mail. When attempting to get ahold of the manager after sending in the letter to get this resolved the manager is never there. The employees are completely useless and there services are subpar. They inform you that you'd receive a call and never do. They have charged my account 4 diff times after my first attempts in canceling. I had to go through my bank to put a stop payment to get this resolved. So my account would be charged by these greedy monsters called planet fitness. The saying "you get what you pay for" couldn't hold more true when it come to plant fitness. They are horrible at providing exceptional service to their customers. Run the other way, pay a little more for a better experience!
8 years ago
Anthony Capecci Austin, TX
I would highly recommend finding a different place to workout. The business practices of Planet Fitness, I would expect to be better, But they are deceptive and dishonest. I called in several times to cancel my membership , and they kept telling me to call back between September 8th and 15th . When I call them on the eighth They said it was still too early. When I called them on the 11th, They told me “oops , it's too late to cancel now, you only had until the 10th". I would expect better For my business is biggest Planet Fitness , but they're just like every other struggling business that uses dirty tactics to make money
8 years ago
Judy Davison Ogden, UT
I paid an entire year up front. But they made me give them a card number and sign a contract. "Company Policy" I found out why!! After the year was up they started charging my card. If they would have notified me I would have paid another year (had a torn PCL when it expired and for a two month period was not going) I never have payments come out of account because I like to know what I am paying and at the time I signed up only had my business card with me. They wouldn't remove them, said I had to submit a cancellation in writing, I will, and they just lost at least 5 year of gym memberships from me. CHEAP SHOT.. Should be Criminal. They told me I would be notified...I wasn't
8 years ago
Katrina Bryant Augusta, GA
If I could give no stars I would. This company does not talk to you about automatic annual renewal so you are deceived from the get go. You are told a 12 month agreement its not, after your 12 months you are charged another annual fee even though you have called up their and told them you want to cancel the membership not once but twice. And the manager Rebecca is a liar because when I called up there at 1:51 I was told she would be at lunch until 3:30 but my husband road up there at 2:00 and surprise shes there she was rude and needs lessons in customer service. This is the location on Peach Orchard Rd in Augusta, Ga.
8 years ago
DANIEL J Fresno, CA
WHY?... I CANCELLED MY MEMBERSHIP AT PLANET FITNESS ???
Many, many times after being a member here for several years, RECENTLY, they just 'again hired new staff' , it just seems every 30-60 days.. they fire the old staff employees, and hired new staff, last manager was fired for 'sexual harrassment'... of several female members and female staff, so this 'new guy'... they hired has to clean and take care of the place, keep the place clean, and the locker rooms, showers, seats, bathrooms & they are just filthy at times with 4-500 people a day come and go there, and someone is spitting everywhere inside the bathroom stalls and on the dressing stalls and in the locker rooms they have seating benches that are just covered with spit and sweat and many other nasty spots & snots... and more, So, this new guy I mentioned to him, the place is filthy, and after that comment, he .. began harrassing me, why?... cause, just one time I mentioned the locker room was very dirty and needs to be cleaned everyday. The locker rooms, the showers, the seats, & the bathrooms stalls, are just filthy and someone is spitting everywhere inside the bathroom stalls and on the dressing stalls and in the locker rooms they have seating benches that are just covered with spit and sweat spots and many other nasty spots of snots and this new guy Alfredo, was in there and I just "one time"... I mentioned the locker room was very dirty and after that, Alfredo, he just began harrassing me and now, I know, as it all turns out, after the one time complaint, he was always complaining about me, (I just heard), many times he was slandering me and others, and filing complaints, for weeks about my comment. I SPOKE TO MANY OTHER MEMBERS. ABOUT IT, I HAD MENTIONED THE FILTHY LOCKER ROOMS, ALSO.
Well, Today FOR SOME REASON, ALFREDO COULD NOT USE THE SCANNER TO SCAN MY BLACK CARD I.D. AND... FOR NO REASON, HE JUST BECAME .. MENTAL.. I said jokingly, maybe you need a psychiatrist...then he just flipped out like he is a guy who is 'demon possessed'.. started yelling and screaming at me and making a real big scene... So then the manager came over, and then he just slandered me, said I was insulting him, and she said, without any investigating, you have to leave... I said I am not the one with a problem, she said, I DON'T CARE... YOU (I) have to leave now...???
SO, CLEARLY THIS PLACE IS SO MESSED UP..
THIS IS JUST A FRIENDLY, WARNING, TO 'ANYONE'... IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING... JOINING THIS CLUB...?
WATCH OUT... THEY MIGHT SAY... THIS IS A...
"JUDGEMENT FREE ZONE"... WELL THAT... IS TOTAL BullShitttt !!!
PLANET FITNESS TODAY... SHAW / MARTY.. FRESNO CALIFORNIA
8 years ago
Marvin Gill
This company claims to be a judgment free zone, but it is precisely the opposite. It is overcrowded, and management will not help you if there is nowhere in the place to work out, which happens every day. You can't even go into the "30 minute room" when it is empty to use the equipment when the rest of the place is so crowded that you are forced to stand against a wall and wait. Management is very rude, and upper management is even worse. A black shirt supervisor lied about a standoff that occured due to his horrible customer service. A multitude of ridiculous rules, judgmental workers, employee rudeness, complete lack of knowledge regarding a standard work-out regiment, overcrowding, and an overall preschool environment makes certain that anyone that enjoys working out will quickly find a different place to attain their fitness goals. It is a good thing that this business is cheap, or they would be out of business. You get what you pay for.
9 years ago
Billie A Auburn, WA
We have only been a member at Planet Fitness for less than a month. My husband is a body builder and is constantly being discriminated against for it. Just for a small background he used to be 250lbs fat and took him 7 years to transformed his body. At our last gym he helped train many people over the years for free and finally couldn't handle the ego of the people we were surrounded with. We switched over to join the "judgment-free" facility but he is being shamed daily for being in shape. Their rules stereotype body builders or they call them "lunks" rules like no water bottles bigger than the cup holder, no gym bags, no grunting or thin strapped shirts. He has had employees seek him out on the floor to tell him his water jug is too big and is a tripping hazard but when I complain that there are 3 gym bags in the walking isle the manager says they don't have enough staff to police the floors. We have noticed that any of the rules that my husband was reprimanded for a non-fit, obese or elderly person would get away with. My husband has abided by all the rules once they were known to him but we still see non-fit, elderly or obese members get away with breaking the rules and are not judged for it. Our final straw was walking into the facility this morning, hadn't even swiped our cards yet and we over hear the manager selling a new membership by putting body builders down. I have submitted a written complaint, spoke to 2 different managers and corporate ultimately just asking to be let out of the contract. Seems fair that if you don't want us there and are judging us in a "judge-free" facility that they would just cancel the contract but they wont let us out of the contract without paying the cancellation fee. They are breaking the law by discriminating against us for being in shape and now wont let us go. It does not feel right to me to have to pay someone to stop discriminating against myself or my loved ones.
On a side note the only reason the machines are clean is because the members do it themselves. I have noticed that they take great care in lifting up the machines and to clean the floor but any part of the machine this is not regularly wiped down like the seat for instance is never cleaned by staff and constantly has a mixture of pubic hair and dust. Showers are not cleaned properly as well.
9 years ago
sj Clearfield, UT
i am writing to inform you of my experience with p/f in ogden, as well as with p/f accounts payable department in located in logan (tammy).
last year 4/11/16, i went in to purchase a one year membership with your company. i paid in cash. it was contingent on it only being a one year contract and after that it would cancel. i made this very clear to the not only the manager of the club but the employee she assigned the job of signing me up. she stated to that it would not be a problem to both myself and my witness. when she assigned the employee to take over for her i restated to him i only want this for a year and after that i want the account cancelled, when he asked me for my bank information. after speaking again with the manager he came back and said it would not be a problem and they would put in a dumby account.
naturally i was surprised when on 4/11/17 i got an email about my account. so i emailed on 4/19 i emailed back restating to close the account.
i then got a letter saying the account was past pue from tammy.
i called both tammy and the club and was pretty much called a liar. even though all of the events that happened on 4/11/16 were not only with the manager but in front of my witness.
i was told not deal with planet fitness that they would try to screw me over. i was sure that this would not be the case. i was however very wrong.
not only was i lied to by management i also had managers and top managers call me a lair.
9 years ago
SHARI
. IN 2016 MY DAUGHTER SUCCESSFULLY OPENED AN ACCOUNT AT AGE 17. SHE WAS ENJOYING HER GYM MEMBERSHIP AND SPIRATICALLY FREQUENTED THE GYM.IN LATE 2016 SHE WAS INBETWEEN JOBS AND HER BANK WAS NOT ABLE TO PAY THE MEMBERSHIP. 1/2017 SHE GOES INTO THE GYM TO PAY UP ACCOUNT AND ENJOY SERVICES. SHE WAS CHARGED $60 IN BACK MEMBERSHIP AND LATE FEES. THEN THEY TOLD HER AN ACCOUNT WAS OPENED IN 2013 UNDER HER NAME PER EMPLOYEE. MY DAUGHTER WOULD HAVE BEEN 14. EMPLOYEE STATED THAT THE BANK ACCOUNT WHICH THE ACCOUNT WAS OPENED WITH WAS ALSO IN MY DAUGHTERS NAME. AGAIN AT AGE 14?! HE ALSO INFORMED HER THAT SHE NEEDED TO PAY $200+ WHICH WAS LATE. WE EXPLAINED THAT MY HUSBAND I HAD AN ACCOUNT AND SHE WAS ABLE TO GO TO THE GYM UNDER MY ACCOUNT. WE PAID THE MONTHLY FEES FOR THAT FROM OUR ACCOUNT. MY HUSBAND AND I WENT 2 YEARS WITHOUT VISITING THE GYM AND DECIDED TO CANCEL. I CALLED AND WAS TOLD WE NEEDED TO COME INTO THE GYM TO CANCEL. WE DID SO. THEY SAID THANK YOU AND WE WERE ON OUR WAY. NEVER PAID AGAIN. WHEN WE ASKED THE EMPLOYEE TODAY FOR A COPY OF HER "SIGNED CONTRACT" FROM 2013 HE STATED HE WAS UNABLE TO "VIEW IT AS THE ACCOUNT IS CANCELLED" HE STATED THAT MY NAME WAS NOT ATTACHED TO THIS 2013 ACCOUNT AND THAT IT WAS SOLELY IN HER NAME. WHEN I ASKED TO SPEAK TO THE MANAGER I WAS TOLD SHE WAS BUSY AND UNABLE TO TALK. SO WE DOUBLE VERIFIED THE INFORMATION GIVEN. THERE IS AN ACCOUNT FROM 2013 WITH A BALANCE OF $200+. SHE WOULD NOT BE ABLE TO USE THE GYM UNTIL THESE FEES WERE PAID. SHE WOULD BE CHARGED A $50 CANCELLATION FEE TO CANCEL CURRENT CONTRACT. SO THEY WILL NOT ALLOW HER TO USE GYM, NOT ALLOW HER TO CANCEL CURRENT CONTRACT WITHOUT A FEE AND WILL CONTINUE TO CHARGE HER MONTHLY AND NOT ALLOW HER TO USE GYM. THEY WOULD NOT PROVIDE A COPY OF THIS MYSTERIOUS CONTRACT. FALSE ADVERTISING: NO OBLIGATION! LOOKS LIKE THERE IS A MAJOR OBLIGATION IMPOSED HERE!
9 years ago
Gregg Leesburg, VA
So there ads sound amazing, right! Only $10/month BUT if you have to cancel, OMG... you have to either go in person, which I am unable to do at the present, OR send in a certified letter! You gotta be kidding me right? I spoke to the club, and when he said that, I told him I was unable to come in, and he said the only other way was to send a certified letter... That was it, couldn't do it over the phone or online... BEWARE, if they were a stand up gym they would not have this ludicrous rule!!
4 years ago
Nick Rittinger Edgewood, KY
Been a member for 10 years! Haven been back since covid. Tried to cancel over the phone with corporate and the local store, but they needed me to come into the store to cancel. When I get there I am told I owe 80 something dollar because I haven't payed since May. It is June, why do I owe 80 dollar for 1 month. I should have canceled when covid hit, but for them to not work with me at all after 10 years is ridiculous. I will never recommend Planet fitness to anyone ever.
5 years ago
Omar Shaker West Warwick, RI
canceled my membership in June sow other people complaining charging them after the cancel, checked my bank and ABC*PL charging me $33 every month, Called asked to speak to manger, very Rude, refuses to refund my money asked to corporation number her was "Honestly if you call all they do send me email and I won't do anything about it, and its on google. complaining wont do anything they enjoy scamming people and steal their money.
5 years ago
Rosa Los Angeles, CA
Even though the nation was shut-down for 6 months and the gym just recently opened, Planet Fitness is charging their members the annual fee. This is wrong. It is unethical. How is Planet Fitness going to charge their members an annual fee when the gym was not even open a full year? 39 dollars is what a person who makes minimum wage earns in 3 to 4 hours. We are in an economic crisis and Planet Fitness is putting themselves first, not the customer.
6 years ago
Jason MacKay RN Fall River, MA
My fiance is a nurse taking care of numerous covid patients since it came out. She caught the virus early on and had minimal symptoms back in April . Saw her doctor isolated as directed by DPH and has been clear for 4 months now. Her facility hasnt had a covid patient in months now. Today she was thrown out of the Fall River Rhode Island Avenue by an employee cause she had the virus 4 months ago . Has tested negative since. Dont go there they treat healthcare providers like leppars
6 years ago
J-9 Las Vegas, NV
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.
6 years ago
Krystal woods Saint Paul, MN
Plant fittness in Roseville mn steals peoples money and Grag the manger will tell you they are going to refund it back to you with then 10 days and you will never get ur money back do not use this club I don't no about any other planet fittness but this one is about of liers and thiefs that work there including the assistant manager Chloe and the manager Grag the steal peoples money do not use this Roseville mn gym they are a bunch of frauds scammers.... I have never willing payed but they took money of my card
6 years ago
Glenn Pompano Beach, FL
Read the reviews and they are quite good. Visited a location in Coconut Creek, Florida, and learned that Planet Fitness discriminates against people with disabilities. Just saying, if you have any issues, don't join. Save yourself of the embarrassment. Incidentally, Planet Fitness also doesn't have a corporate customer service, so if you have an issue there isn't anyone outside of the store that you can direct issues to. And whatever kid is at the front desk is as far as your complaint will go.
7 years ago
Max Minneapolis, MN
The manager at the Columbia Heights Mn club actually encourages people to sit on machines with their phones and text ect. While I was trying to workout there was a guy doing just that, I did 60 reps on machines while he sat there watching videos. I asked him to allow me to work through while he was resting. He told me he was not done and went back to watching. I asked the club GM, jewan, to educate the guy in gym etiquette. Jewan told me that the guy was not done. And he was right. He was not done watching his video, but he did not use the machine during the entire time.
7 years ago
Wonder Woman Salem, VA
The ABSOLUTE WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE! THE STAFF IS ILL EQUIPPED TO HANDLE THE MOST BASIC INQUIRIES. BOTH NATHAN AND CHRISTY ARE RUDE AND DISRESPECTFUL. WE HVE CANCELLED BOTH IN PERSON AND VIA EMAIL BUT CONTINUE TO BE CHARGED NOW GOING ON 7 MONTHS! EVERY TIME WE GO IN THEY ASSURE US IT WILL BE TAKEN CARE OF. OF COURSE HAS NOT. THEY CLAIM NOT TO HVE A REGIONAL MANAGER OR SOMEONE OTHER THAN CHRISTY OR NATHAN TO HELP! I AM FRUSTRATED AND NEED HELP!! JUDGEMENT FREE?! I THINK NOT!! SHAME ON YOU PLANET FITNESS!!
7 years ago
ROSA V Grand Prairie, TX
I have never used this gym membership, I tried canceling at the gym and they told me I had to pay my annual fee. I find this extremely harsh being as I never even activated the gym membership. Now I was charged $83 dollars to my credit card and am left without any money to feed my kids. I need this refunded as soon as possible and for this account to be canceled. It is extremely unfair I will be contact the BBB.
7 years ago
Jim
Sad to say, the franchise ownership in Canada is now pulling a bait and switch. Now that everyone signed up for a 24/7 club, the hours are being cut. It's not going to be a 24/7 club anymore. Effective April 29th, 2019 they are switching to a 24/4. Why is it that fitness clubs have such a hard time giving you what you paid for? All I can say is that I recommend you go elsewhere.
7 years ago
Micheal Spencer, OK
Me and a friend visited a Tulsa planet fitness off East Admiral and I have a membership. They allowed someone to come in without a membership. The person go into the locker and stole keys stole my friends car which lead to my wallet and car being stolen!!
Planet fitness has done nothing!!!! They offered me a few months of membership .. NO!!! That does not replace my car that is still missing !! Not my wallet or peace of mind!!! Very unhappy with this establishment!
7 years ago
M. Hopkins Shawnee, OK
Had horrible customer service during my membership then when I canceled after the 12th payment. They charge me for a 13th payment. They said there’d be a $58 buy out but according to my contract that only applies if you cancel early. Which I did not do. They refused to resolve the issue and I had to go through my bank to resolve the issue. The bank reviewed the contract and the certified mail receipt and determined it was a fraudulent charge.
7 years ago
Priyanka
Planet fitness is hilarious, worst, ridiculous gym ever. Without consent debit order deduction and without consent auto renewal. as well if you write mail to them with all things never expect reply from them, Its not at all recommended gym ever. Toooooooooooooooo worst gym ever to go.
I had written mail to them with all details. Yet i did not get any response without automatic reply.
They never have explanation what they did. and never ans to your mails.
Please kind request never even think to join planet fitness
7 years ago
Jack Mahana Salt Lake City, UT
Don’t trust them with any bank or credit card information!! After first canceling my month to month membership they continue to charge my bank account anyway. Forcing me to either take time off work to go into their gym (company policy, you can signup online but only cancel in person) to “re”cancel the already canceled membership or give up and allow them to continue to make unauthorized charges to my bank account!! Next stop will be to small claims court to recover the unauthorized charges lost work and legal fees! In short DON’T DO BUSSES WITH THEM!!!!
8 years ago
Edward Wilkes-Barre, PA
Went to join 25 down 10 dollars a month great sign me up give us you bank checking account don't have happy to give you my credit card worth 25000 dollars no sir we don't take credit card well I be happy to pay cash in advance sir this is only allow in December. Judge Free zone not only are you judge me but you are false advertising why is there not a disclamer when shown on tv. By the way a few years back I was amember only reqirement was a credit card Judgefree Zone Ha hAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA.
8 years ago
