Start Strong, But Don’t Stay Stuck: How to Make Planet Fitness Work for You
When it comes to getting started on your fitness journey, Planet Fitness often stands out as one of the most accessible and budget-friendly options. It’s a well-known gym chain with locations across the country, and for many people, it’s their first experience with weight training, cardio, and gym culture. But is it the right gym for long-term results?
Let’s break down the pros and cons of Planet Fitness, and more importantly, how to make the most of what it offers—without falling into the trap of fitness mediocrity.
What is Planet Fitness? A Quick Look Inside the Brand
Founded in 1992, Planet Fitness has grown into one of the largest and most recognizable fitness franchises in the United States—and beyond. With over 2,500 locations across the country and a presence in multiple international markets, Planet Fitness has made a name for itself by being affordable, accessible, and welcoming to people of all fitness levels.
Their signature “Judgement Free Zone” branding aims to create a non-intimidating atmosphere, making it especially appealing to first-time gym-goers. Memberships typically start at just $10 per month, giving users access to cardio equipment, weight machines, and a variety of amenities depending on their membership tier (such as massage chairs, tanning, and guest privileges with the Black Card membership).
Planet Fitness is open 24/7 at many locations and prides itself on keeping its gyms clean, simple, and easy to navigate—ideal for those new to strength training or returning after time away.
But as with anything, how you use it determines how far you’ll go.
✅ The Pros of Planet Fitness
1. Low-Cost Membership
For under $15 a month, you get access to cardio equipment, strength machines, and clean facilities. It’s hard to beat this price point—especially for beginners who are just testing the waters. There’s no huge financial commitment, and the environment is generally welcoming and non-intimidating.
2. Beginner-Friendly Atmosphere
Planet Fitness markets itself as a “Judgement Free Zone,” and while that slogan is heavily promoted, it does reflect their vibe. This makes it a great stepping stone for people who feel overwhelmed by traditional gyms.
3. Convenient Locations
With thousands of clubs nationwide, chances are there’s a Planet Fitness near your home or work. This convenience factor removes another common barrier: location.
4. Access to Machines and Cardio Equipment
Rows of treadmills, ellipticals, and resistance machines make it easy to start building consistency with your workouts—even if you don’t yet have a full understanding of strength training. Everything is laid out and simple to use.
❌ The Cons of Planet Fitness
1. Limited Free Weights
Most Planet Fitness locations cap their dumbbells at 60 lbs and don’t offer barbells or squat racks. This is fine for beginners, but as you get stronger, you’ll need progressive overload—adding more weight over time. Without that, your gains will plateau.
2. Lack of Structure Among Members
Here’s the truth: Most gym-goers walk in without a plan. They hop from one open machine to the next, hoping to “feel the burn” and call it a day. This random approach might burn calories, but it won’t build real, lasting strength or performance. Machines also isolate muscles, while real life—and real strength—demands integrated, functional movement.
3. Long-Term Progress Is Limited
Planet Fitness can absolutely help you start, but if you’re under 50 and care about getting strong, fit, and functional, it shouldn’t be your forever gym. If you don’t graduate to more advanced training environments with barbells, heavier dumbbells, and performance equipment, you risk staying stuck in a loop of maintenance—never really seeing meaningful transformation.
So Is Planet Fitness Worth It?
Absolutely—if you follow a structured program.
While Planet Fitness may have limitations, it’s more than enough to help you build a solid foundation—but only if you train with intention. That’s why I created two custom programs inside the Mobility Suite App specifically for Planet Fitness members:
PF Beginner Strength Program: Perfect for new lifters who want to learn how to get stronger using machines, dumbbells, and functional movement patterns.
PF Advanced Strength Program: Built for experienced members who want to push past plateaus and continue building strength even within the limitations of a basic gym setup.
These programs include:
Warm-ups and movement prep to keep your joints healthy
Smart strength progressions using available equipment
Mobility training to boost flexibility and prevent injury
Core finishers and spinal cool-downs to end each session strong
Your Ultimate Goal: Graduate from Planet Fitness 🎓
Let’s be honest: Planet Fitness is the community college of gyms (and yes, I did start my education in community college). It’s affordable, accessible, and a great place to start—but eventually, you need to graduate if you want to unlock your full physical potential. Staying too long might seal your fate in mediocrity.
If you’re under 50, your body still has years of growth, strength, and vitality left in it—but only if you train smart and with purpose.
Try my Planet Fitness Strength Programs for Yourself
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to break out of your plateau, I’ve got your strength training needs covered—all for a fraction of the cost of a personal trainer.
Inside the Mobility Suite, you’ll find a wide selection of structured strength programs, including:
PF Beginner and Advanced Strength
Strength + Mobility Programs
Barbell and Functional Training Options (for your next gym upgrade)
Start your 7-day FREE trial today and transform your training—even if all you have access to is a Planet Fitness.
👉 Train smarter, not harder. Your results depend on it.
