Choosing the right gym can make a major difference in your fitness journey, and two of the most popular chains in the United States are Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness. Both offer extensive networks, convenient locations, and a range of amenities, but membership costs and what you get for your money do vary. This guide will walk you through a detailed, step-by-step process to compare their membership costs, understand what’s included, and help you make the most informed decision for your budget and needs. Before you begin, you’ll want to know your fitness priorities and have access to the internet or a phone to check local prices, as rates can vary by location.
What You’ll Need
- Internet access or a phone
- Zip code or city for your preferred gym location
- Basic idea of your budget and gym priorities (e.g., 24/7 access, classes, equipment)
- Notebook or device to jot down notes and prices
Step-by-Step
- Identify your nearest Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness locations.
Use the official websites or Google Maps to find the gyms closest to you. Membership costs and available amenities may differ by location, so it’s important to compare the specific branches you’ll actually use. - Visit the official websites for up-to-date pricing.
– For Anytime Fitness, go to Anytime Fitness Gym Locator and enter your zip code or city.
– For Planet Fitness, use the Planet Fitness Gym Finder with your location.
Most gym chains do not list exact prices on their main site but may provide a range or a way to request a quote. - Contact each location directly for precise membership costs.
Gym franchises often set their own rates. Call, email, or use the online contact forms to get the following details from each club:- Monthly membership fee
- Initiation or enrollment fee
- Annual or maintenance fees
- Any discounts (student, senior, corporate, etc.)
- Contract length and cancellation policy
Write down the details for both gyms so you can compare them side by side.
- Ask about what’s included in each membership tier.
For Anytime Fitness, memberships typically include 24/7 access and use of all locations, but extras like tanning, personal training, or classes may cost more.
For Planet Fitness, there are usually two main options: the Classic membership (access to one club, no-frills) and the Black Card membership (includes access to all clubs, guest privileges, tanning, massage chairs, etc.).
Get a breakdown for both tiers at Planet Fitness and ask if Anytime Fitness offers tiered memberships or add-ons. - Calculate the total annual cost for each gym.
Add up the monthly fee, initiation or sign-up fee, and any annual fees for a realistic full-year cost. For example:- If Anytime Fitness is $45/month, plus a $50 initiation and $40 annual fee, the first year would be: (12 x $45) + $50 + $40 = $630 + $50 + $40 = $720
- If Planet Fitness Classic is $10/month, with a $39 annual fee and no sign-up, the first year would be: (12 x $10) + $39 = $120 + $39 = $159
- If Planet Fitness Black Card is $24.99/month, plus $39 annual fee, the first year would be: (12 x $24.99) + $39 = $299.88 + $39 = $338.88
Note: These are typical ranges, but local prices may be higher or lower.
- List amenities and compare what matters most to you.
Price is important, but so are features. Consider:- 24/7 access and security
- Group fitness classes
- Personal training availability
- Guest privileges
- Locker rooms, showers, and cleanliness
- Equipment variety and availability
- Atmosphere (e.g., Planet Fitness is known for its “Judgement Free Zone” and “Lunk Alarm” to discourage grunting or dropping weights)
- Travel access to other locations
- Extras (tanning, massage chairs, hydro-massage, etc.)
Make a checklist and see which gym aligns better with your needs for the price.
- Read the fine print.
Carefully review each gym’s contract terms, including cancellation policy, transfer fees, freeze options, and whether you’re signing a month-to-month or annual contract. Ask if there are any hidden fees or rate increase clauses. - Take advantage of free trials or guest passes if available.
Many gyms offer a free day or week pass. Try both gyms to see which atmosphere, equipment, and crowd you prefer before committing. - Decide and enroll.
Once you’ve compared costs, amenities, and overall fit, choose the gym that offers the best value for your goals and budget. Complete your enrollment online or in person, making sure you get a copy of the contract and receipt of payment.
Common Mistakes
- Not checking local pricing: Membership costs can vary widely between locations, even within the same city.
- Ignoring additional fees: Some gyms charge annual maintenance fees, enrollment fees, or have hidden costs not included in the monthly rate.
- Overlooking contract details: Failing to read the cancellation policy or contract length can result in unexpected charges if you need to leave early.
- Assuming all amenities are included: Some perks (like classes, tanning, or guest access) may cost extra or only be available at higher membership tiers.
- Not considering gym atmosphere: The vibe of the gym can greatly affect your motivation. Visit during your preferred workout time to see if you like the crowd and environment.
Tips
- Negotiate fees: Some locations may be willing to waive initiation fees or offer discounts, especially during promotions or if you ask directly.
- Check for corporate or group discounts: Employers, schools, or organizations sometimes have partnerships with gyms for reduced rates.
- Consider your schedule: If you need 24/7 access, Anytime Fitness may be a better fit, while Planet Fitness often has extended but not always round-the-clock hours.
- Review guest policies: If you want to work out with a friend, Planet Fitness’s Black Card allows unlimited guest privileges, while Anytime Fitness typically charges for guest passes.
- Factor in travel: If you travel frequently, consider which chain has more convenient locations for you nationwide or internationally.
- Ask about free classes: Group fitness classes may be included at some Anytime Fitness locations but are rarely part of Planet Fitness memberships.
- Be wary of rate increases: Some gyms reserve the right to increase your monthly dues after the first year; confirm if your rate is locked in.
Troubleshooting
- If prices are not published online: Always call or visit the gym in person. Staff can provide exact rates and current promotions.
- If you receive conflicting information: Ask for written confirmation of the rates and terms. Sometimes staff may quote different prices or forget to mention fees.
- If you signed up and realize you missed a better deal: Many gyms have a short cancellation window (sometimes 3-7 days). Contact the gym immediately to ask about switching plans or canceling without penalty.
- If you’re locked into a contract but need to cancel: Check if you qualify for a freeze (medical, relocation, etc.) or if there are buyout options. Explain your situation to the manager; some locations are flexible.
- If amenities change after you join: Policies and offerings can shift. If you lose access to a key feature (like 24/7 hours or classes), bring it up with management to see if compensation or a contract release is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much is an Anytime Fitness membership on average?
- Memberships typically range from $35 to $60 per month, plus possible initiation and annual fees. Exact rates depend on location.
- How much does Planet Fitness cost per month?
- The Classic membership is usually $10/month, while the Black Card is around $24.99/month, plus a $39 annual fee. Local prices may vary.
- Are there hidden fees at either gym?
- Both gyms may charge initiation, annual, or maintenance fees in addition to the monthly rate. Always confirm the full cost before joining.
- Can I use other locations with my membership?
- Anytime Fitness generally allows access to all locations worldwide. Planet Fitness Black Card members can use any club; Classic members are limited to their home club.
- Is there a contract or can I go month-to-month?
- Both gyms offer month-to-month and annual options. Month-to-month may cost slightly more. Be sure to check the cancellation policy.
- Do these gyms offer free trials?
- Many locations offer free day passes or trial periods. Check with your local gym for details as policies differ by location.
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Anytime Fitness vs Planet Fitness Membership Cost Breakdown