Planet Fitness and LA Fitness are two of the most popular gym chains in the United States. But which one will work best for you? In this article, we will compare and contrast the two gyms, and help you decide which one is best for your needs. We will discuss things like membership fees, hours of operation, equipment availability, and more. If you’re stuck between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness, or just want to learn more information about the two, this article is perfect for you!
What is Planet Fitness?
Planet Fitness is a chain of fitness centers located throughout the United States. They offer low-cost memberships, a wide range of equipment, and various services. Founded in 1992, Planet Fitness is headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire. The company fitness offerings are excellent and include personal training, group exercise classes, and spa services. They have over 2,000 locations across the United States, making them one of the largest gym chains in the country.
Planet Fitness is known for their “no judgments” policy, which means that they welcome people of all fitness levels and do not pressure members to compete or compare themselves to others. They also offer a variety of amenities, such as personal training, locker rooms, showers, and saunas. [1]
What is LA Fitness?
LA Fitness has gyms all over the U.S., so you can work out no matter where you are. There are over 700 LA Fitness gyms, making it one of the largest fitness club chains in the United States.
LA Fitness was founded in 1984 and has its headquarters in Irvine, California. The company offers a wide range of amenities, including group exercise classes, personal training sessions, and spa treatments.
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness: 10 Differences
If you’re stuck between whether to join Planet Fitness or LA Fitness, know that there are key distinctions between the two gyms. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the main distinctions between these two popular workout spots.
Cost
Planet Fitness is the low-cost option, with an average monthly membership costing just over $10. On the other hand, LA fitness club’s prices are significantly higher at about 40 dollars per month for a single user or more if you want to get into some of their special deals like discounts on family memberships which can make it cheaper in comparison. Membership plans are an important differentiator between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness. While the two gyms have many similarities, one major difference is their membership options – with only one type of plan available at each gym for all members to choose from (LA has higher level versus lower), this can lead you towards paying more depending on which option best suits your needs.
Contract Length
One of the key differences between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness is contract length. Contract lengths vary depending on which gym you choose, but if having a shorter or longer commitment isn’t possible for your schedule then it might be best to consider both options before signing up at any one location. The key difference between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness is that with the former, you’re committing for at least one year even if it doesn’t seem like you’re going to use their services. In contrast however there’s no cancellation fee and should be unhappy with what they have provided after 30 days.
Equipment
LA Fitness and Planet Fitness both offer a lot of equipment to their members. However, there are some key differences that you should be aware of. To begin with, LA Fitness has a larger variety of cardio machines than Planet Fitness.
If your cardiovascular workout consists of machines, LA Fitness has a better selection. Planet Fitness also has a wider variety of strength-training equipment. If you need to bulk up or want more ways to work out your muscles, Planet Fitness is right for you. In terms of amenities, both gyms offer locker rooms with showers and saunas. However, only LA Fitness offers towel service. So if you’re someone who likes to have a clean towel to use after your workout, then LA Fitness is the better choice.
Atmosphere
When you walk into most gyms, you’ll notice a lot of the same things. Treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights all in one room with maybe some spin bikes or a pool off to the side. But what about the atmosphere of the gym? LA Fitness and Planet Fitness are very different when it comes to their offerings. Most people would say that LA Fitness has a more upscale feel to it. With its dark wood floors and shiny equipment, it looks like it belongs in Hollywood instead of your neighborhood strip mall. The clientele reflects this as well. If you’re looking to spot serious athletes working out, LA Fitness is more likely to be the place than Planet Fitness. Planet Fitness, on the other hand, is much more low-key. The decor is basic and the equipment is functional but not flashy. You’re also likely to see a wider range of people working out here, from those just starting their fitness journey to those who have been going to the gym for years.
Gym Policies
No matter how great a gym’s equipment or classes are, you won’t want to go back if the staff is unprofessional or the policies are inconvenient. Here’s a quick overview of the policies at LA Fitness and Planet Fitness so you can decide which one better fits your needs. LA Fitness requires all members to sign a contract. The standard contract is for 12 months, but you can also sign up for six or 18 months. There is a $39 initiation fee, and monthly rates start at $34.99 per month, but vary depending on location and amenities. You can use any LA Fitness location nationwide, and there are no blackout dates. If you cancel your membership, you’ll have to pay a $99 cancellation fee. Planet Fitness has a more flexible approach when it comes to contracts. You can sign up for a one-year contract for $19.99 per month, or a no-contract membership for $22.99 per month. There is also a $39 sign-up fee. If you cancel your membership, you’ll have to pay a $58 cancellation fee if you signed a contract, or a $30 fee if you have a no-contract membership.
Group Classes
Both LA Fitness and Planet Fitness offer group classes as part of their membership, so if you’re looking to add some variety to your workout routine or just want to work out with friends, you’ll be covered at either gym. However, there are some key differences between the two chains’ offerings. LA Fitness has a more diverse selection of classes than Planet Fitness, with options like Zumba, kickboxing, Pilates, and even yoga.
And while you may have to wait for a popular class to start at peak hours, LA Fitness always has multiple classrooms open so you can choose an alternate class if one is full. Planet Fitness also offers group classes, but they’re not as varied as LA Fitness’s offerings, and you may have to wait for a class to start if the gym is crowded.
Amenities
When it comes to amenities, both gyms offer a wide variety of options for their members. However, there are some key differences that you should be aware of before making your decision.
LA Fitness:
- Towel Service: LA Fitness offers towel service at all of their locations. If you’re the type of person who enjoys a clean towel while working out or afterwards, then this is definitely a perk worth taking advantage of.
- Locker Rooms: For the convenience of our members, all LA Fitness locations have locker rooms. Most locker rooms come with showers, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Pool: While not all LA Fitness locations have pools, many of them do. If you like to swim or get a water workout in, this amenity is perfect for you!
Planet Fitness:
- Towel Service: At Planet Fitness, we don’t offer towel service at any of our locations. If you like to have a clean towel available to use post-workout or shower, then keep this in mind.
- Locker Rooms: All Planet Fitness locations have locker rooms available for use by members. These locker rooms typically include showers, but saunas and steam rooms are not usually available.
- Pool: Planet Fitness does not have any pools at any of their locations. This is something to keep in mind if you enjoy swimming or working out in the water. [4]
Personal Training
There are some key differences that set LA Fitness and Planet Fitness apart when it comes to personal training. LA Fitness locations have personal trainers available to help you achieve your fitness goals. Personal training services at Planet Fitness are only available in specific areas. At LA Fitness, we offer not only personal training services, but also small group classes for those who want to train with friends or family. This gives you the option to choose what type of personal training experience you want.At Planet Fitness, we believe that personal training is best done one-on-one. Another difference is in the number of sessions you can purchase. At LA Fitness, you have the option to purchase 5, 10, or 20 personal training sessions. Planet Fitness only offers 10 and 20-session personal training packages. LA Fitness offers personal training services at a lower rate than Planet Fitness. LA Fitness offers personal training packages starting at $40, while Planet Fitness’ starts at $10.
Locations
The most obvious difference between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness are their respective locations.
LA Fitness is a national gym chain with over 700 locations across the United States. In contrast, Planet Fitness has around 1,700 locations, but these are mostly concentrated on the East Coast.
Hours of Operation
Although both LA Fitness and Planet Fitness are gyms, they differ in their hours of operation. LA Fitness is open Monday through Thursday from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 5am to 10pm, Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Unlike other gyms, Planet Fitness is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the exception of some holidays. This can be extremely convenient if you are someone who likes to work out late at night or early in the morning as you will always have access to a facility with Planet Fitness. However, if you’re used to working out during regular business hours, LA Fitness may be a more advantageous option as they have more standard hours of operation.
So, which gym is right for you? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a low-cost option with a no-judgment policy, Planet Fitness may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for more amenities and better customer service, LA Fitness may be a better option. Whichever gym you choose, make sure it is the right fit for you and your fitness goals! [5]
FAQ
Is Planet Fitness only for beginners?
No, Planet Fitness is not just for beginners. In fact, they welcome all levels of fitness. However, they do have a few amenities that may be more appealing to those who are just starting out on their fitness journey, such as the Black Card lounge and the HydroMassage bed. LA Fitness is more expensive than Planet Fitness on a monthly basis. LA Fitness is a higher-end gym that comes with slightly more expensive membership fees. Planet Fitness, on the other hand, has a very low monthly fee, making it more affordable for those on a budget.
Is Anytime fitness more expensive than LA Fitness?
The two gyms are similar in price. Anytime Fitness is a bit more expensive, but the extra cost gets you 24/7 access to your gym, which can be worth it for some people. Although Anytime Fitness may have a higher monthly fee, it is not more expensive than LA Fitness. In fact, it is usually cheaper!
In fact, Anytime Fitness has a very similar pricing structure to LA Fitness. Both gyms offer a variety of membership options, including month-to-month memberships, annual memberships, and even personal training packages. So, if you’re wondering whether Anytime Fitness is more expensive than LA Fitness, the answer is no – they are actually very similar in terms of pricing.
Why doesn’t Planet Fitness have a squat rack?
The availability of a squat rack is one key differentiating factor between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness. LA Fitness’s clientele and Planet Fitness’s target market do not completely align. While LA Fitness attracts more serious weightlifters and bodybuilders, Planet Fitness’ target market is people who want to get in shape and lose weight. As such, they have different equipment to cater to these different goals.
While a squat rack may be necessary for someone looking to build muscle, it is not necessary for someone who just wants to tone up and lose weight. This is why you’ll find more cardio and strength training machines at Planet Fitness than you will at LA Fitness.
How do I choose a gym?
This is a question that we get all the time here at GymHuntr, and it’s one that definitely doesn’t have a simple answer. There are so many factors to consider when choosing a gym – from location and price to amenities and class offerings – that it can be tough to know where to even begin.If you’re stuck on where to start, one of the best things you can do is narrow your options down by looking at specific gyms that fit your needs. In this post, we’re going to take a look at two of the most popular gyms in the country – LA Fitness and Planet Fitness – and compare and contrast them in order to help you make a decision about which one is right for you. When it comes to choosing a gym, the most important factor to consider is what you’re looking to get out of your membership. Are you simply looking for a place to workout, or are you looking for a full-service fitness experience complete with classes and other amenities? Once you know what you want, you can begin to look at gyms that offer the services and features that you’re looking for.
What gym has the cheapest membership?
LA Fitness and Planet Fitness are two of the most popular gyms in America. They both offer great amenities and equipment at a reasonable price. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before making your decision. Although LA Fitness requires a higher monthly fee, it provides more amenities than Planet Fitness. For example, LA Fitness has more locations, better equipment, and more classes. Although Planet Fitness is less expensive than LA Fitness, it doesn’t have as many benefits or amenities. However, Planet Fitness does offer a few unique features, such as black-light yoga and HydroMassage beds.
So, which gym is right for you? It really depends on your budget and what you are looking for in a gym. LA Fitness has better equipment and more features than its competitors. If you are on a budget and just want a basic gym membership, then Planet Fitness is the better choice.
Does Planet Fitness have free weights?
Although Planet Fitness has a rack of free weights in the form of dumbbells, they do not have a power rack.
If you’re the type of person who prefers to lift heavier weights during your squats and bench presses, Planet Fitness is probably not the best gym for you.
If you want to use free weights at Planet Fitness, they have a Smith Machine that you can use.
Smith Machine ‘s are weight machines that allow you to use a barbell, but the bar is locked into place on rails.
Are gym memberships worth it?
This is a common question that people ask when they are thinking about joining a gym. The simple answer is that it really depends on your individual fitness goals and budget. Some people feel that a gym membership is worth the money because of access to improved equipment and classes. Others find that they can get just as good of a workout by working out at home or at a local park. No matter what your fitness goals are, there is a gym membership option out there that can fit your needs. In this article, we will compare and contrast the two most popular gyms in the United States: LA Fitness and Planet Fitness. This paper will provide a detailed analysis of the membership costs, facilities, and services offered by two major brands. By the end of this article, you should have a better idea of which gym is right for you. LA Fitness is one of the largest and most well-known gym chains in the United States.
Does LA Fitness have a pool?
LA Fitness does not have a pool, meaning that if swimming is part of your workout plan, you’ll need to choose another gym. LA Fitness not only offers a plethora of other amenities, such as group fitness classes and personal training, but also an extensive amount of cardio and strength-training equipment. But, Planet Fitness has a pool! This is a great amenity if you’re looking for a workout that includes swimming. Planet Fitness not only has a pool, but they also offer fitness amenities like group classes and personal training. You’ll also find a wide range of cardio and strength-training equipment. One of the primary distinctions between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness is that the former has a pool. If you’re looking for a workout that includes swimming, you’ll need to choose Planet Fitness. However, both gyms offer many other amenities, such as group fitness classes, personal training, and a wide variety of cardio and strength-training equipment.
What can you do with a Planet Fitness black card?
A Planet Fitness black card is your ticket to abusing all the amenities at any of their locations. This gives you free range of the massage chairs, tanning booths, and other areas. Each month, you receive a complimentary guest pass that allows whoever you invite to workout with you. Lastly, you receive 20% off all PF merchandise when you sign up.
A LA Fitness black card gives you access to all of the amenities at any LA Fitness location. This includes access to the swimming pools, basketball courts, saunas, and more. You also get a free guest pass each month, which allows you to bring a friend or family member to work out with you. Lastly, you get a 20% discount on all LA Fitness merchandise.
Useful Video: LA FITNESS VS PLANET FITNESS!!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then Planet Fitness is the way to go. If you’re looking to spend a little extra cash for a superior gym experience, then LA Fitness is the better option.
No matter which gym you choose, remember that the most important thing is to stay motivated and consistent with your workouts. With enough dedication and effort, you’ll be sure to reach your fitness goals in no time! We hope this guide has helped you better understand the key differences between LA Fitness and Planet Fitness. Thank you for reading!
References:
- https://trustyspotter.com/blog/planet-fitness-vs-la-fitness/
- https://woottoncommonsense.com/2669/features/la-fitness-vs-planet-fitness-which-will-win-the-battle/
- https://powerliftingtechnique.com/planet-fitness-vs-la-fitness/
- https://vekhayn.com/planet-fitness-vs-la-fitness/
- https://www.verywellfit.com/best-gym-memberships-4780237