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Planet Fitness is an affordable option for those seeking fitness on a budget, with memberships starting at $10 for regular access and going up to $24.99 for enhanced features (prices vary by location). Like many other gyms, Planet Fitness provides free gym passes.
Despite its low cost, the key question is whether Planet Fitness delivers in terms of equipment. Choosing a gym involves more than just budget considerations; the available machines play a crucial role in ensuring an effective workout.
So, what machines can you find at Planet Fitness?
Planet Fitness provides a range of machines, such as treadmills, chest press, shoulder press, seated leg press, and various crunch machines. For a comprehensive list of machines, refer to the detailed list below.
List of Planet Fitness Machines
Planet Fitness (PF) offers a variety of workout machines at its gyms. It’s worth mentioning that PF provides paid and free workout classes for its members. If you decide to join, take advantage of these free fitness classes.
Keep in mind that the availability of machines may vary between PF locations. Different gyms may have different equipment. If you want to know if your local PF has a specific machine, the best way to confirm is to call and ask a staff member.
Here is the list of machines you’ll typically find at Planet Fitness gyms ordered by category.
Planet Fitness cardio machines
Cardio, also known as aerobic exercise, is a great way to strengthen your heart muscle, lower your resting pulse, and boost your mood. Research shows that even a 6-minute walk can have significant health benefits. Planet Fitness is a good option for a great cardio workout if you want to improve your cardiovascular health.
PF offers a range of cardio machines, including:
- ARC trainers
- Ellipticals
- Recumbent bikes
- Rowing machines
- Stair climbers
- Stationary bikes
- Treadmills
Planet Fitness arm, shoulder, and chest machines
Planet Fitness offers a variety of machines specifically designed for targeting your arms, chest, and shoulders. These include:
- Bicep Curl Station
- Butterfly Machine
- Cable Biceps Bar
- Cable Triceps Bar
- Chest Press
- Incline Press
- Lateral Pull-Down Machine
- Shoulder Press
These machines provide a comprehensive workout for strengthening and toning the specified muscle groups.
Planet Fitness leg machines
Leg day is crucial for overall fitness, and Planet Fitness offers a variety of effective leg machines to help you achieve your fitness goals.
According to Healthline, leg workouts have numerous benefits, including producing hormones like cortisol for stress response, testosterone for muscle repair and growth, and human growth hormone (HGH) for muscle growth, immunity, and fat metabolism.
In addition to hormonal benefits, leg exercises contribute to muscle building, calorie burning, weight loss, and enhanced overall fitness. At Planet Fitness, you can make use of leg machines like:
- Angled leg curl machine
- Leg extension machine
- Seated leg press
- Sled push machine
To target different muscle groups and achieve a well-rounded leg workout, don’t overlook leg day – it’s essential for a balanced and effective fitness routine.
Planet Fitness core machines
If you’re aiming for defined abs and a stronger core, Planet Fitness offers various specialized workout machines:
- Crunch machines
- Hanging leg raise station
- Torso rotation
- Decline bench
- Mountain climber machine
Additionally, many locations feature a dedicated 12-minute abs room, providing an efficient space for a comprehensive ab circuit workout.
Stretching and yoga equipment
Stretching and yoga play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. As noted by John Hopkins Medicine, yoga enhances strength, balance, and flexibility, benefiting both physical and mental well-being by aiding stress management and promoting quality sleep.
For those seeking free yoga classes, certain places provide them. Additionally, Planet Fitness gyms typically have dedicated rooms equipped with essential items for stretching and yoga, including:
- Floor mats
- Workout/balance balls
Full-body workout machines
For a comprehensive full-body workout, PF offers specific machines, such as:
- 30-Minute Express Circuit room: Rotate between cardio stations and ten strength machines for a 30-minute session targeting your entire body.
- Synergy 360 machine
Weightlifting equipment at Planet Fitness
Weightlifting provides various health benefits, including increased strength, improved heart health, and a boosted metabolism, as highlighted by Healthline. When paired with a balanced diet and supplements, it forms a solid foundation for achieving overall strength, leanness, and better health.
It’s important to note that Planet Fitness may not be the ideal choice if you specifically seek equipment like bench presses, squat racks, or heavy deadlift bars, as these may not be available at most Planet Fitness locations. You might find another gym more suitable if these are essential to your workout routine.
Nevertheless, Planet Fitness does offer a range of weightlifting equipment, such as:
- Free weights like dumbbells and barbells
- Smith machines
While it may not have certain advanced equipment, it still provides options for those seeking weightlifting exercises.
Other Planet Fitness amenities and programs
In addition to the mentioned machines, Planet Fitness provides the following amenities and programs:
- Fitness training
- Hydromassage
- Lockers
- Massage chairs
- Showers (Bring your own towel)
- Small group training sessions
- Tanning
It’s important to mention that some services are exclusive to PF Black Card members. For more details on the PF Black Card membership, refer to the FAQs section below.
Top Planet Fitness workout machines to hit each muscle group
Planet Fitness offers a variety of effective workout machines to help you target specific muscle groups. Here’s a concise guide on the best machines and how to use them:
1. Chest press machine for the chest
Targets: Deltoids, Pectorals, Triceps
How to use:
- Adjust the seat and pin weights.
- Sit with your back against the seat.
- Grab the arms and push them away, then pull them back.
- For strength: 3 sets of 4-6 reps with a 3-minute break.
- For muscle size: 3 sets of 8-12 reps with a 90-second rest.
2. Lat-Pulldown machine for the back
Targets: Latissimus Dorsi (Lats)
How to use:
- Adjust weights and knee holder.
- Sit with a straight spine, grab handles, and pull down.
- Alternate lifting handles for variety.
- Aim for 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps for muscle size.
3. Shoulder press for the shoulders
Targets: Anterior Deltoids, Pecs, Trapezius, Triceps
How to use:
- Adjust seat and weights.
- Sit with your back against the seat, grab handles, and lift.
- Alternate handles for variety.
- For muscle size: 3 sets of 8-12 reps; for endurance: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
4. Smith machine for the glutes
Targets: Quadriceps, Glutes
How to use:
- Determine the front, lean back, and mime a squat.
- Lower hips until thighs are parallel to the floor.
- Stand up and repeat.
- Aim for 3 sets of 12 reps.
5. Seated leg press for the legs
Targets: Calves, Glutes, Hamstrings, Hips, Quadriceps
How to use:
- Adjust chair height and add weight plates.
- Sit flush against the seat and push against the platform.
- For endurance: 3-4 sets of 15-20 reps; for muscle gain: 3 sets of 12-15 reps.
6. Cable machine for abs
Targets: Abdominals
How to use:
- Adjust pulley height and cable weight.
- Kneel, hold the triceps rope, and crunch.
- Aim for 3 sets of 8-12 reps.
7. Assisted pull-up machine for arms
Targets: Abdomen, Biceps, Back Muscles
How to use:
- Adjust weights.
- Step onto the stool, grip the handles, and pull up.
- Aim for 3-4 sets of 8-12 reps with 90-120 seconds of rest.
Do all Planet Fitness gyms have the same equipment?
Most Planet Fitness branches share similar equipment, but your home club might vary slightly. It could have some unique additions like Synergy 360 machines, rowing machines for cardio, or TRX, while possibly missing one or two machines found in other locations.
Does Planet Fitness equipment work with Apple Watch?
Certain Planet Fitness machines, like cardio equipment, are compatible with the Apple Watch. To sync, turn on the machine and place your watch near the Apple logo. Keep it there until you feel a slight buzz, indicating a successful connection.
Can I bring my own equipment to Planet Fitness?
You can bring your equipment to Planet Fitness, but rules vary by club. You’re allowed to bring a towel and a water bottle. Some clubs also permit mats, pads, and cable attachments, such as handles and grips.
How old do you have to be to use the equipment at Planet Fitness?
You must be at least 13 years old to use Planet Fitness equipment. If you’re 13-14, a parent must accompany you during your workout. For those aged 15-17, you can exercise independently with a signed parent consent form.
Does Planet Fitness have swimming pools?
Planet Fitness does not offer swimming pools at any of its locations. As a budget gym, including costly pool maintenance isn’t aligned with the brand’s approach. Consider exploring other options if you’re interested in gyms with swimming facilities.
Does Planet Fitness have basketball courts?
No, Planet Fitness does not have basketball courts in any of its 2,000 gym locations. This is because the focus is on keeping membership costs low. By avoiding features like pools and basketball courts, which require significant space, and instead prioritizing workout equipment and amenities that use less space, Planet Fitness can maintain affordable membership prices.
Does Planet Fitness have a Sauna?
Planet Fitness does not provide saunas or steam rooms at most locations to keep membership costs low. However, Planet Fitness Black Card members can access hydromassage and tanning services as alternative options for relaxation.
How much does a personal trainer cost at Planet Fitness?
When you join Planet Fitness, you get access to personal trainers at no additional cost. This means you can receive professional guidance and support to help you achieve your fitness goals without having to pay extra fees
Certified fitness trainers will guide you through the gym, offer instructions on cardio and strength machines, and can even create a personalized exercise program to help you reach your fitness goals. Additionally, they conduct various small group training sessions for members.
Is the Planet Fitness PF Black Card worth it?
The standard PF membership is $10 per month, providing access to all cardio and strength equipment, free Wi-Fi, fitness training, and global PF access.
The PF Black Card, at around $24.99 per month (prices vary), offers additional perks:
- Bring a guest anytime
- Tanning
- Hydromassage
- Massage chairs
- Total Body Enhancement
- 50% off select drinks
- 20% off at Reebok.com
Some benefits are location-specific, and restrictions may apply to the drink discount.
The PF Black Card may be worthwhile if you value extras like tanning, Hydromassage, or bringing a guest. However, if you only need basic access to cardio and strength equipment, the $10 standard membership is sufficient.
The bottom line
Planet Fitness provides a variety of machines, including treadmills, chest press, rowing machines, recumbent bikes, and seated leg press machines. Whether you aim for cardio, arm workouts, or leg exercises, Planet Fitness offers affordable options.
If you’re hesitant, consider trying their gym equipment before committing. Take advantage of Planet Fitness’ free day passes to test the machines before deciding on a monthly membership.