Does Planet Fitness have a sauna? Learn about Planet Fitness amenities, what to expect at locations, and sauna alternatives for members seeking heat therapy.
Does Planet Fitness Have a Sauna? Complete Amenities Guide
If you're wondering "does Planet Fitness have a sauna," you're not alone. Many fitness enthusiasts looking for a gym membership want to know about heat therapy options like saunas and steam rooms before signing up. Planet Fitness has grown to become one of the largest gym chains in America, known for its affordable memberships and judgment-free zone philosophy.
This comprehensive guide answers your sauna question definitively while exploring all the amenities Planet Fitness offers, helping you decide if this popular gym chain meets your fitness needs.
Table of Contents
- The Short Answer About Saunas
- Why Planet Fitness Doesn't Have Traditional Saunas
- What Amenities Does Planet Fitness Offer
- Planet Fitness Membership Tiers Explained
- Black Card Spa Amenities
- Sauna Alternatives at Planet Fitness
- Gyms with Saunas vs Planet Fitness
- Benefits of Sauna Use After Workouts
- Finding Sauna Access Near You
- FAQs
- Conclusion
The Short Answer About Saunas
No, Planet Fitness does not have traditional saunas or steam rooms at their locations. This applies to both the basic membership and the Black Card membership levels.
While many gym-goers specifically seek out facilities with saunas for post-workout relaxation and health benefits, Planet Fitness has chosen a different business model that doesn't include this amenity.
However, Planet Fitness does offer other spa-like amenities for their Black Card members, which we'll explore in detail throughout this guide.
Why Planet Fitness Doesn't Have Traditional Saunas
Understanding Planet Fitness's business model explains their amenity choices.
The Budget-Friendly Approach
Planet Fitness built its brand on accessibility and affordability:
- Low membership costs: Starting at $10/month (Classic membership)
- High volume model: More members at lower prices
- Streamlined operations: Fewer complex amenities to maintain
Cost Considerations
Saunas and steam rooms require significant investment:
- Installation costs: $10,000-$50,000+ per unit
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning, repairs, and monitoring
- Utilities: High energy consumption for heating
- Liability: Health risks require additional insurance
- Space: Dedicated square footage that could be used for equipment
Business Philosophy
Planet Fitness focuses on:
- Core fitness equipment
- Cardio machines
- Basic amenities for casual exercisers
- Judgment-free, beginner-friendly environment
Their target demographic is often first-time gym-goers or casual exercisers who may not prioritize spa amenities.
What Amenities Does Planet Fitness Offer
While saunas aren't available, Planet Fitness provides various amenities depending on your membership level.
Standard Club Amenities (All Locations)
Cardio Equipment:
- Treadmills
- Elliptical machines
- Stationary bikes
- Stair climbers
- Rowing machines
Strength Training:
- Weight machines (circuit training)
- Free weight area
- Dumbbells (up to 75 lbs typically)
- Smith machines
- Cable machines
Other Standard Features:
- Locker rooms with showers
- Restroom facilities
- Water fountains
- Wi-Fi access
- TV screens on cardio equipment
Black Card Exclusive Amenities
Black Card members ($24.99/month) receive additional perks:
- Hydromassage beds/loungers
- Massage chairs
- Tanning beds/booths
- Total Body Enhancement (red light therapy)
- Use of any Planet Fitness location
- Ability to bring a guest
- 50% off select drinks/cooler items
Planet Fitness Membership Tiers Explained
Let's break down what each membership level includes.
Classic Membership ($10/month)
Included:
- Unlimited access to home club
- All cardio and strength equipment
- Locker rooms and showers
- Free fitness training (group sessions)
- Free Wi-Fi
Not Included:
- Black Card spa amenities
- Access to other locations
- Guest privileges
Best for: Budget-conscious members who will use one location consistently
PF Black Card ($24.99/month)
Included everything in Classic, plus:
- Hydromassage
- Massage chairs
- Tanning
- Total Body Enhancement (red light therapy)
- Access to all 2,400+ locations
- Bring one guest per visit
- 50% off cooler drinks
- PERK program discounts
Best for: Members wanting spa amenities, travelers, or those who want to bring friends
Annual Fees
Both memberships have an annual fee of approximately $39-$49, typically charged once per year.
Black Card Spa Amenities
Since Planet Fitness doesn't have saunas, let's explore the spa-like amenities Black Card members can enjoy.
Hydromassage
What it is: Water-jet massage beds or loungers
Benefits:
- Muscle relaxation
- Stress relief
- Improved circulation
- Post-workout recovery
- No water contact (you remain clothed)
How it works:
- Controlled water jets massage through a vinyl barrier
- Adjustable pressure and targeted areas
- Sessions typically 10-15 minutes
Massage Chairs
Features:
- Full-body massage programs
- Multiple intensity settings
- Various massage styles
- Convenient for quick relaxation
Tanning Beds/Booths
Options vary by location:
- Stand-up tanning booths
- Lay-down tanning beds
- UV tanning for base tan development
Notes:
- Eyewear provided
- Time limits apply
- Not recommended for everyone (skin sensitivity)
Total Body Enhancement
What it is: Red light therapy combined with vibration platform
Claimed benefits:
- Skin rejuvenation
- Increased energy
- Muscle recovery
- Improved circulation
How it works:
- 12-minute sessions
- Stand on vibration platform
- Red light therapy exposure
- Non-UV light treatment
Sauna Alternatives at Planet Fitness
If you're seeking heat therapy benefits, consider these alternatives available at Planet Fitness.
Total Body Enhancement as Heat Alternative
While not producing the same intense heat as a sauna, Total Body Enhancement:
- Generates mild warmth
- May improve circulation
- Offers relaxation benefits
- Available at most locations
Hydromassage for Recovery
For post-workout recovery without sauna:
- Water massage aids muscle relaxation
- Promotes circulation
- Reduces muscle tension
- Convenient and clothing-on experience
Hot Showers
A simple but effective option:
- Use hot water for muscle relaxation
- Free with any membership
- Available at all locations
- Quick and convenient
Pre/Post Workout Heat Therapy at Home
Combine Planet Fitness workouts with:
- Infrared sauna blankets (affordable home option)
- Hot baths with Epsom salts
- Portable steam saunas
- Heating pads for targeted areas
Gyms with Saunas vs Planet Fitness
How does Planet Fitness compare to gyms that offer saunas?
Gyms That Typically Have Saunas
| Gym Chain | Monthly Cost | Sauna | Steam Room | |--|--|-|| | Equinox | $200-$300+ | Yes | Yes | | Lifetime Fitness | $100-$200 | Yes | Yes | | LA Fitness | $30-$40 | Some | Some | | 24 Hour Fitness | $30-$50 | Some | Some | | YMCA | $50-$100 | Many | Some | | Planet Fitness | $10-$25 | No | No |
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Planet Fitness Advantages:
- Significantly lower monthly cost
- No long-term contracts (typically)
- Basic amenities for most fitness goals
- Black Card spa amenities as alternatives
Traditional Gym Advantages:
- Sauna and steam room access
- Often more extensive free weight areas
- Group fitness classes
- Pool access (some locations)
- More comprehensive facilities
Making the Right Choice
Choose Planet Fitness if:
- Budget is your primary concern
- You don't need a sauna
- You're a casual exerciser
- You want multiple location access (Black Card)
Choose a different gym if:
- Sauna access is essential
- You want extensive free weights
- You prefer group fitness classes
- You need pool access
Benefits of Sauna Use After Workouts
Understanding what you might be missing helps you decide if sauna access is worth pursuing elsewhere.
Physical Benefits
Muscle Recovery
- Increased blood flow to muscles
- Reduced muscle soreness
- Faster recovery between workouts
Cardiovascular Health
- Improved heart function
- Lower blood pressure (long-term)
- Enhanced circulation
Detoxification
- Sweating removes toxins
- Skin cleansing
- Pore clearing
Mental Benefits
- Stress reduction
- Relaxation response activation
- Improved sleep quality
- Mental clarity
Research Findings
Studies suggest regular sauna use may:
- Reduce risk of cardiovascular disease
- Lower all-cause mortality
- Improve respiratory function
- Enhance athletic performance recovery
Finding Sauna Access Near You
If sauna access is important to you, here are options to consider.
Gym Options with Saunas
- YMCA: Many locations have saunas, community-focused
- LA Fitness: Select locations include saunas
- 24 Hour Fitness: Some locations offer sauna/steam
- Luxury gyms: Equinox, Lifetime Fitness (higher cost)
- Local gyms: Independent gyms may have saunas
Standalone Sauna Options
- Spas and wellness centers: Day passes available
- Korean spas (jjimjilbang): Affordable sauna complexes
- Float centers: Often include sauna access
- Hotels: Day passes sometimes available
Home Sauna Options
- Portable infrared saunas: $100-$500
- Infrared sauna blankets: $150-$400
- Traditional sauna installation: $3,000-$10,000+
- Outdoor barrel saunas: $2,000-$8,000
FAQs
Does any Planet Fitness location have a sauna?
No, no Planet Fitness locations have traditional saunas or steam rooms. This is consistent across all 2,400+ locations. The chain has standardized its amenities, and saunas are not part of their facility design.
Does Planet Fitness Black Card include sauna access?
No, the Black Card membership does not include sauna access because Planet Fitness doesn't have saunas. However, Black Card does include Hydromassage, massage chairs, tanning, and Total Body Enhancement (red light therapy) as spa alternatives.
What is the closest thing to a sauna at Planet Fitness?
The Total Body Enhancement booth is the closest alternative to a sauna at Planet Fitness. While it doesn't produce intense heat like a sauna, it provides red light therapy with mild warmth and a vibration platform, offering some relaxation and recovery benefits.
Is Planet Fitness worth it without a sauna?
Yes, Planet Fitness can be worth it depending on your priorities. At $10-$25 per month, it offers excellent value for basic fitness needs. If sauna access is essential to you, you may need to supplement with another facility or home sauna option.
Why doesn't Planet Fitness have a pool or sauna?
Planet Fitness keeps prices low by focusing on core fitness equipment and minimal complex amenities. Pools and saunas require significant construction, maintenance, and operational costs that would necessitate higher membership fees, contradicting their budget-friendly model.
Can I use both Planet Fitness and another gym with a sauna?
Absolutely. Many people maintain a low-cost Planet Fitness membership for daily workouts and supplement with occasional visits to spas, wellness centers, or gyms with day passes for sauna access. This can still be more affordable than a premium gym membership.
Conclusion
So, does Planet Fitness have a sauna? NoPlanet Fitness does not have saunas or steam rooms at any of their locations. This is a deliberate business decision that allows them to offer their famously low membership prices.
However, Planet Fitness does provide alternative relaxation and recovery amenities for Black Card members:
- Hydromassage beds and loungers
- Massage chairs
- Tanning beds and booths
- Total Body Enhancement (red light therapy)
If sauna access is essential to your fitness routine, you have several options:
- Choose a different gym that includes saunas
- Use Planet Fitness for workouts and visit a spa for sauna sessions
- Invest in a home sauna solution
- Combine Planet Fitness membership with day passes elsewhere
For many people, Planet Fitness's unbeatable price point and convenient locations make it an excellent choice, even without saunas. The Black Card spa amenities provide relaxation benefits, and the money saved on membership can be redirected toward other wellness options if desired.
Ultimately, the best gym is one you'll actually use consistently. Whether that includes a sauna depends on your personal priorities, budget, and fitness goals.