In the fast-paced, health-conscious world of today, there are many more options for fitness centres than just treadmills and equipment. A comprehensive experience that incorporates equipment, classes, relaxation, and wellness-focused features like saunas, steam rooms, and recuperation zones is what many gym patrons seek. A frequently asked issue, particularly by new or potential members, is if Planet Fitness offers saunas as part of its services.
In a nutshell, no, saunas are not usually available at Planet Fitness locations. However, this choice isn’t the result of a lack of concern for the wellbeing of members. Instead, it supports the brand’s primary objective, which is to give everyone access to a workout setting that is accessible, reasonably priced, and non-threatening. Let’s examine in more detail why saunas are not a standard feature of Planet Fitness locations and what the gym offers in their place.
Examining the Mission of Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is not your typical upscale fitness facility. By making fitness accessible to those who might have been reluctant or uneasy about attending traditional gyms, the brand established a niche with its “Judgement Free Zone®” philosophy. Their mission has always been to provide a friendly, reasonably priced environment where individuals of all fitness levels, particularly novices, may work out without feeling intimidated or under pressure.
Their choice of amenities is heavily influenced by this objective. Rather than spending money on pricey spa-type amenities like steam rooms or saunas, Planet Fitness focuses its efforts on keeping its facilities clean, providing a wide range of cardio and strength training equipment, and offering affordable prices.
Comprehending the Cost Dynamics
Planet Fitness’ extremely affordable pricing is one of the reasons it has expanded to over 2,600 locations in the US and abroad. In order to remove the cost barrier to fitness, the baseline membership is purposefully maintained cheap, typically at around $10 per month. Although access to additional amenities is provided by the premium “Black Card” membership, which normally costs about $24.99 per month, even this enhanced tier is still significantly less expensive than subscriptions at upscale fitness facilities.
Saunas and steam rooms can be expensive to install and maintain. A substantial investment is needed for construction, electricity and water utilities, safety procedures, and continuing upkeep for these facilities. Such high-maintenance features would unavoidably increase membership rates for a company model centred on affordable accessibility.
Instead, what amenities does Planet Fitness provide?
Despite not having saunas, Planet Fitness does have a number of enticing features that are designed to improve comfort, healing, and general wellbeing, particularly for Black Card members. These consist of:
HydroMassage Beds: A well-liked option, these beds deliver a soothing, full-body massage by using hot water pressure. Completely clothed, members can recline and take in the calming water waves that ease tense muscles and promote recuperation after a workout.
Massage Chairs: Another great way to unwind, massage chairs are frequently accessible to Black Card holders whenever it’s convenient for them. After an exercise, these chairs deliver a mechanical yet pleasant experience by focusing on painful places.
Tanning Booths: Most Planet Fitness facilities include upright or lay-down tanning beds for people who like sunbathing indoors. Although it has nothing to do with fitness specifically, some members find it to be a distinctive perk.
Total Body Enhancement Machines: This less well-known function supports circulation, skin look, and muscle recovery by combining vibration technology and red light treatment. Although it doesn’t replace a sauna, it does encourage well-being.
Although these choices don’t precisely replicate the sauna experience, they do demonstrate the brand’s dedication to providing affordable, accessible wellness solutions.
Why Saunas Are Preferred by Some
It makes sense that people would want saunas in fitness centres. Numerous possible advantages of saunas include relaxation, increased circulation, sweating-induced cleansing, and even momentary muscle soreness treatment. After a strenuous workout, many gym patrons find that spending a few minutes in a sauna helps them relax both psychologically and physically.
Finnish dry saunas, Turkish hammams, and Japanese onsens are only a few examples of the cultural relevance of saunas around the world. They have a strong connection to health and renewal. Contrary to popular belief, saunas are not necessary for weight reduction or physical recuperation, even though they are helpful.
The Target Market for Planet Fitness
Saunas were excluded because their target audience was clearly understood. Planet Fitness generally serves casual gym patrons, such as those who are new to fitness, are returning after a hiatus, or prefer ease and simplicity. Convenience, affordability, and a welcoming environment are usually more important to this group than opulent facilities.
It makes perfect sense for many seasoned athletes and sauna enthusiasts to look for additional training facilities that offer spa-quality services. Planet Fitness has accepted that it cannot please everyone. Rather, they focus on one thing really well: providing reliable, basic fitness at a very affordable price.
Member Input and Expectation Control
Some members are disappointed to learn that there isn’t a sauna or steam room at Planet Fitness. It’s a reasonable response, particularly if they’re leaving a more upscale gym setting. Nevertheless, a lot of members discover that the HydroMassage mattresses and massage chairs provide comparable relaxing benefits, especially after working out.
Additionally, most employees are open and honest about what the gym does and does not offer. The availability of amenities can be clarified with a brief tour or a question at the front desk, assisting new members in controlling their expectations before committing to a membership.
Will Saunas Be Introduced by Planet Fitness in the Future?
Although adding saunas to future sites or premium tiers is technically feasible, it appears unlikely given their current economic plan. Any such modification would necessitate a thorough revision of the utilities, space, and safety compliance protocols. More significantly, it would alter the price strategy that has contributed to their widespread appeal.
We might witness a change in some places towards providing more recovery choices if member demand for wellness-focused services increases sufficiently. Such adjustments would probably be made gradually and selectively, though.
Comparing Options: Where to Go If You Must Have a Sauna
You might want to look into different fitness centre chains if using a sauna is an essential component of your post-workout regimen. Saunas, steam rooms, and even whirlpools are common features in many upscale or mid-range gyms. However, depending on the area and facilities, these can cost anywhere from $60 to $100 a month.
The trade-off between affordability and amenities is well-known. Although Planet Fitness is more affordable, rivals might provide a more complete wellness setting for those who are prepared to pay more.
Maximising Planet Fitness Facilities
With the resources provided, members of Planet Fitness may optimise their recuperation and well-being even in the absence of saunas. Regular stretching, hydration, and post-workout cool-downs can be just as helpful for general fitness recovery as hydromassage and massage chairs, which are excellent choices for relaxing muscles.
Some members even develop innovative health routines, such as using personal steamers or portable sauna blankets, or taking a hot bath at home after working out. These tools for the home are growing in popularity and can be a great addition to a gym membership.
Concluding Remarks: Fitness Above Extras
In conclusion, Planet Fitness has purposefully chosen not to offer saunas as part of their standard offerings, a decision that stems from their brand philosophy: accessible, inclusive, and judgment-free fitness for everyone. The total value offer is still great, even though some people might find the lack of saunas to be a drawback.
Planet Fitness offers a well-rounded, if simple, workout experience with a mix of cardio and strength equipment, spotless facilities, and recovery-focused extras like massage chairs and HydroMassage. Planet Fitness keeps living up to its promise for anyone looking for a gym that strikes a mix between price, quality, and convenience.
By breaking down boundaries and embracing more individuals into the fitness community, Planet Fitness stands out in a world where the wellness sector is frequently associated with exclusivity and exorbitant costs. Although steam may not be billowing from a sauna, their goal of making fitness a journey free from judgement is undoubtedly gaining traction.