List of Planet Fitness Machines and Equipment
“So, what equipment does Planet Fitness have?”
When picking a gym, the equipment available is important to your decision. You might have heard about Planet Fitness, a favorite among fitness enthusiasts like you, no matter where you are in your fitness journey. They offer extensive machines and tools designed to cater to your unique fitness goals. Imagine stepping into a welcoming and unintimidating gym with equipment and amenities tailored just for you.
But what about the workout equipment? Do you prefer heavy, free weights, or do you lean towards machine-centered exercises? In this article, I’ll guide you through the array of strength and cardio workouts, equipment, and machines available at Planet Fitness, helping you determine if it’s the perfect gym for your fitness aspirations.
We will cover all of the equipment at Planet Fitness, which includes the following:
- Free Weights
- Cable Machines
- Smith Machines
- Strength Training Machines
- Cardio Machines (Treadmills, Ellipticals, Rowing Machines, etc)
- PF Express 30-Minute Workout Area
- Other Types of Equipment
Cardio Equipment at Planet Fitness
Treadmills and Ellipticals
More than any other type of workout equipment in Planet Fitness, cardio equipment numbers everything. This is most evident at nearly every location by the several rows of treadmill and elliptical machines. Every Planet Fitness location I’ve been to overwhelmingly has more of these types of equipment than anything else. This is primarily because these are incredibly popular, especially at certain times of the year. I have even been to locations with two levels jampacked full of these cardio crushers.
These are larger than average cardio machines, more significant than what you will find in most home gyms. That’s meant to accommodate nearly every body type and size of the person looking to increase their physical fitness levels. They are all effortless to use, even for beginners.
Stationary Bikes and Rowing Machines
“Does Planet Fitness have rowing machines?” Heck yes they do.
Although less numerous, all locations have a plentiful supply of rowing machines and various types of stationary bikes. And has the previously mentioned treadmills or ellipticals, but that doesn’t mean they are legitimate cardio choices.
Predominantly considered to be cardio workouts, both the rowing machine and stationary bike options. Also, include strength training to increase your cardiovascular levels and strengthen your overall body simultaneously.
Regardless of which equipment you use, make sure not to set off the infamous Planet Fitness Lunk Alarm!
Arc Trainers and Mountain Climbers
I head to the Arc trainers at Planet Fitness for something a little different. These machines simulate the climbing motion, offering a low-impact workout that targets various muscle groups and improves my balance and coordination. The mountain climber machine, also called a Stair Stepper by many, if available, is an excellent way to engage my entire body and push my cardio to new limits. Mountain climbers work my core, glutes, and leg muscles in one fun workout.
Many people don’t realize that machines like the stair stepper or rowing machines don’t require fast movement to attain a great workout. For most of my workouts, I need slow and steady machines that will have me sweating in short order. These are great for raising the heart rate and getting excellent exercise, all while burning calories.
Planet Fitness always has a variety of cardio equipment to choose from. Whether I like running, biking, or climbing, I have options to help me reach my fitness goals.
Strength and Weight Equipment
Free Weights
“Does Planet Fitness have free weights?”
Nearly every Planet Fitness location has the same or similar free weight options.
First, you will find a section dedicated to dumbbells. I have seen that various locations carry, perhaps, more dumbbells than other locations; all Planet Fitness branches have dumbbells up to 75 pounds and stop there.
Nearby the free-weight dumbbell area, you will often find a small section dedicated to various types of preacher curl bars or straight curl bars. There are usually few of these available, and it is not a section popularized by gymgoers in general. However, these are generally available for those looking for additional freeway opportunities.
While not necessarily considered a free weight, the location will be stocked full of rubberized weight plates, which can be used in a free week manner for various types of exercises, such as weight plate raises, multiple types of weight plate rows, or farmer’s walks.
Free weights might not actually be much of an advantage, according to this study posted by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, which found free weights and machine training to be equally effective for increasing muscle.
Weight Machines
At Planet Fitness, you’ll find a diverse range of weight machines tailored to target specific muscle groups, just as you need. Imagine accessing machines for chest, shoulder, and seated leg press workouts. These machines are designed to isolate muscles and focus intently on your form, ensuring you get the most out of every workout.
No matter which part of your body you aim to strengthen, a machine is waiting for you. If you’re focusing on your legs, the leg machines at Planet Fitness offer a variety of options. And let’s not forget about your arms – the arm machines at Planet Fitness are just as abundant, providing numerous choices to suit your workout preference.
Remember, these machines differ from free weights. They’re typically seated equipment operated with cables and pulleys, offering a different workout experience. But don’t be mistaken – it’s an incredibly effective exercise method. Each machine supports your fitness journey, helping you achieve your goals precisely and efficiently.
Other Strength Training Equipment
At Planet Fitness, your strength training goes beyond free weights and machines. Envision using their Smith machines for supported squats, bench presses, and deadlifts. Plus, benches for focused exercises like bench presses and tricep extensions are readily available. These options are there to diversify and enhance your workouts, offering the variety and support you need.
Targeted Workout Machines
Leg and Glute Equipment
At Planet Fitness, you’ll find a variety of leg and glute machines that I personally love for lower body strengthening. Like I do, you can target your quads and hamstrings using the leg press. The leg extension machine is great for focusing on the quadriceps, a favorite of mine. For a comprehensive workout, try the seated leg press – it’s fantastic for engaging the glutes, quads, and hamstrings simultaneously, just as it does for me.
Chest and Shoulder Equipment
The incline, chest, and shoulder press machines at Planet Fitness are key to my upper body workouts, focusing on the chest and shoulders. Like I target my pectoral muscles with the chest press, you, too, can benefit from this machine. Similarly, the shoulder press is excellent for honing in on deltoids, a crucial part of my routine that can enhance yours.
Suppose I want to focus on my chest muscles. In that case, I utilize the butterfly machine, which is perfect for targeting the pectoralis major and minor muscles.
I’m also a big fan of the pec deck for chest and back work.
Back and Core Equipment
I turn to the lateral pull-down machine for a strong back and core. This machine targets my back muscles and helps strengthen my core. Additionally, I use crunch machines to strengthen my abdominal muscles. These machines effectively work on my upper and lower abs, helping me achieve a well-defined core.
Biceps and Triceps Equipment
Lastly, I give my biceps and triceps the attention they deserve. I achieve this using the bicep curl station and cable biceps bar for my biceps and the cable triceps bar for my triceps. The angled leg curl machine is also a versatile piece of equipment that I use for targeting both my biceps and triceps, depending on the adjustments I make to the machine.
With all these targeted workout machines, I can develop a well-rounded and balanced fitness routine at Planet Fitness.
Before you head to the gym, don’t forget your Planet Fitness gym essentials!
Cable Machines
In most Planet Fitness locations, you’ll notice that cable machines take up a considerable space behind treadmills and other cardio equipment. These cable pulley machines are versatile, ideal for various upper body and core workouts, and with a bit of creativity, they can be used for lower body exercises, too.
Like me, you might find these machines perfect for back and shoulder workouts. Their flexibility and ease of use fit well into quick workout routines. Plus, the different types of handles and tools available offer a wide range of exercise possibilities.
With these machines, you can explore exercises like lat pull-downs, various types of flyes, chest presses, and shoulder raises, focusing on your upper body. Their versatility opens up many workout opportunities just waiting for you to try.
PF Express 30 Minute Workout
If you want to separate from the main gym area, the PF Express room at Planet Fitness is your ideal spot. This room has various strength equipment interspersed with cardio steps to suit your workout needs. As depicted in the picture, a stoplight switches from red to green.
You can start with the first machine, pushing for as many reps as possible until the light turns red. Then, you can catch your breath before moving on to the next machine, making it a unique and structured way to manage your workout intensity.
This is a cardio and strength training extravaganza.
Extra Equipment
All locations have a designated room with additional cable, pulleys, and alternative weights, such as kettlebells, medicine, balls, and battle ropes. He will typically also find a room dedicated to lower body workouts, containing various types of machines for enhancing the strength and aesthetic of your lower body.
Planet Fitness Equipment Is Missing A Few Things
The biggest knock by those critical of Planet Fitness is their lack of more free weight opportunities.
For instance, they don’t have squat racks, which can be a real deal-breaker for some people who love incorporating squats into their workouts. You might also notice the absence of barbell benches for bench presses, which can be crucial for anyone looking to build chest muscles.
Another thing that surprised me was the need for more traditional deadlifting platforms. This doesn’t mean you can’t do deadlifts, but you might need to find creative ways to incorporate them into your workout.
Membership Options
Classic Membership
When you start your journey with Planet Fitness, consider their Classic Membership, just like I did. Priced at only $10 a month, it’s affordable for anyone embarking on their fitness journey. You’ll appreciate, as I do, the convenience of unlimited access to your home club, seamlessly fitting workouts into your busy schedule. Plus, the Judgement Free Zone® ensures a comfortable atmosphere for all members. Planet Fitness takes pride in maintaining clean and spacious clubs, enhancing your workout experience every time you visit.
The Classic Membership also includes access to tons of cardio and strength equipment, which has been a massive help in keeping my workouts varied and engaging. My favorite machines include:
- Stairclimbers
- Treadmills
- Stationary and recumbent bikes
- Ellipticals
PF Black Card Membership
After a while, I wanted to explore the perks of the Black Card, so I upgraded to the PF Black Card Membership. At $24.99 a month, it provides a wide array of additional benefits:
- Unlimited access to any Planet Fitness location
- The ability to bring a guest with me for free
- Access to the exclusive Black Card Spa, featuring Total Body Enhancement, HydroMassage beds, and massage chairs
- Tanning facilities
This new membership level has made my fitness journey even more enjoyable, allowing me to work out with friends and enjoy great amenities. I also appreciate the flexibility of visiting different Planet Fitness locations while traveling.
Teens can work out for free all summer long with the Planet Fitness Summer Pass!
In conclusion, my experience with Classic and PF Black Card Memberships has made my fitness journey enjoyable and motivating. Planet Fitness offers great membership options that cater to different preferences, budgets, and needs at their gym locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What machines are available for leg workouts?
When you’re looking to focus on your chest at Planet Fitness, you’ll find an array of machines specifically designed for this muscle group. These include chest press machines, incline and decline presses, and a variety of free weights for bench press exercises. With these options, it’s easy to mix up your workout routine and target different areas of your chest, ensuring a comprehensive and effective chest workout.
Which equipment targets the chest?
Yes, Planet Fitness does have indoor rowing machines available. These are excellent for low-impact, full-body workouts, targeting arms, back, core, and legs. They offer a comprehensive exercise experience that enhances your overall fitness and strength.
Does Planet Fitness offer indoor rowing machines?
Yes, Planet Fitness does offer indoor rowing machines. These are ideal for your low-impact, full-body workouts, effectively targeting your arms, back, core, and legs. The rowing machines provide a comprehensive exercise option, perfect for enhancing your overall fitness and strength in a balanced way.
Is there an elliptical trainer at Planet Fitness?
Yes, Planet Fitness has elliptical trainers available for you to use. These machines are a fantastic low-impact cardio option, helping you work on endurance and burn calories simultaneously. They’re an excellent choice for an effective and joint-friendly workout.
What kind of bench press options do they have?
At Planet Fitness, you’ll find several bench press options to enhance your workouts. Flat benches are perfect for traditional bench presses, while adjustable benches allow you to engage in incline and decline presses. With both barbells and dumbbells readily available, you can easily switch up your chest workout routines, keeping your sessions diverse and engaging.
Can I find a leg curl machine at Planet Fitness?
Yes, Planet Fitness does have leg curl machines in their facilities. This machine is perfect for targeting my hamstrings and giving them a good workout as part of your lower body routine.
Final Thoughts
I’ve had the opportunity to visit various Planet Fitness locations, and I must say, their Planet Fitness equipment list is quite impressive. There are several different Planet Fitness cardio machines, such as stair climbers, treadmills, stationary and recumbent bikes, and ellipticals. To give you an idea, here’s what I usually find at Planet Fitness:
- Cardio Area: Loaded with diverse machines, ensuring I never get bored. The facility is also spacious, so I rarely wait for a specific machine to become available.
- Strength Training Section: It’s equipped with various arm, shoulder, and chest machines, consisting of bicep curl stations, shoulder presses, chest presses, and lateral pull-down machines, to name a few. This enables me to have a complete upper-body workout.
- Leg Machines: As a gym-goer, I appreciate how they cater to lower-body workouts, such as the seated leg press and thigh machines.
One thing I appreciate is the welcoming atmosphere Planet Fitness provides. Their famous “Judgement Free Zone” truly helps me feel comfortable and at ease while exercising. Also, their well-maintained facilities make the experience even more enjoyable.
Conversely, the lack of heavier free weights and the limited selection of squat racks may not be ideal for more advanced gymgoers.
For anyone considering joining Planet Fitness, it’s an excellent choice for beginners or those simply looking for a casual workout space. The availability of various machines enables versatile workouts and ensures that you can find the right fit for your fitness goals.
So, there you have it—my take on Planet Fitness and its equipment offerings.