Why Is Planet Fitness So Bad? (7 Revealing Reasons) (2024)

Planet Fitness is a popular gym chain in the United States but has its fair share of haters. But what is it that makes Planet Fitness so bad?

To get a clear answer for the hate, we’re analyzing seven reasons why people say Planet Fitness is bad.

Why Is Planet Fitness So Bad?

1. Unprofessional Staff

One of the most common complaints about Planet Fitness is that the staff is unprofessional. This ranges from inexperienced and unqualified trainers to the front desk staff, who are said to be unhelpful and often rude.

These qualities don’t bode well for Planet Fitness or any other business. If the staff is unprofessional, it can make the whole experience of going to the gym less enjoyable.

Moreover, it can make members feel unsafe and less likely to want to return. Many former members say they left Planet Fitness because of the staff’s poor attitude and lack of professionalism.

2. Poor Equipment And Facilities

Another common complaint about Planet Fitness is that the equipment is old, outdated, and in poor condition. This is especially true of the cardio machines, which are often broken or not working properly.

The weight machines are also said to be in poor condition, with many members saying they’re uncomfortable to use. The facilities are also said to be dirty and not well-maintained.

3. Limited Machine Selection

Planet Fitness gyms have a limited selection of machines and classes, and this can be frustrating for members looking for a complete workout experience.

While the gym has some basic machines, it doesn’t have much of the more specialized equipment you would find at a traditional gym. This can make it challenging to get the exact workout you’re looking for.

Planet Fitness is at risk of losing members to gyms that offer a complete selection of machines and classes. Many consumers need specialized courses to help them reach specific fitness and health goals.

Some of Planet Fitness’s offerings are more than adequate. But in the areas it lacks, members really notice the difference and are taking their business elsewhere to get the programs they need.

4. No Grunting

Planet Fitness has a “no grunting” policy, which means members are not allowed to make noise while working out. This includes things like grunting, moaning, and even breathing loudly.

This policy is designed to make the gym more comfortable for everyone. However, many members find it to be excessively strict and off-putting. It can also make working out less effective, as grunting can help you power through tough reps.

Planet Fitness even has an alarm that sounds when this rule gets broken by gym members. The alarm is highly sensitive, too, making it feel awkward and uncomfortable when trying to get a good lift in.

5. Poorly Maintained Locker Rooms

The locker rooms at Planet Fitness are often said to be dirty and poorly maintained, and this can be a significant turn-off for members trying to get ready for their day or workout in peace.

Many locker rooms are said to be cramped and uncomfortable, with a lack of privacy, making it difficult to change or shower in peace.

No one wants to spend their time in a dirty, cramped locker room, which is one of the main reasons people say they don’t like Planet Fitness.

You feel dirty enough as it is after a hard workout. So you want a locker room that lets you get cleaned up quickly, so you can get on with your day.

6. No Free Weights

Planet Fitness doesn’t offer free weights for members to use, which can be a problem for people looking to build muscle or get stronger.

This may not be a big deal if you’re only interested in cardio. But if you’re looking for a complete workout, you may want to look elsewhere.

Free weights are an essential component of any good workout routine, and they help you build muscle, which in turn, helps you burn more calories.

Members who wish to experience a complete workout regimen will be sorely disappointed with Planet Fitness’s weight options.

It doesn’t seem like Planet Fitness’s business model accommodates the hardcore. Instead, it’s more attuned to soccer moms and casual workouts. This isn’t inherently bad on its own.

But it leaves out a critical customer segment. As a result, Planet Fitness has more bad reviews than good.

7. Untrained Trainers

Another issue people have with Planet Fitness is the quality of its trainers. Many members say that the trainers are poorly trained and not very helpful.

This can be a significant problem if you’re trying to get in shape and don’t know where to start. A good trainer can help you create a workout plan and teach you how to use the machines properly.

But if the trainer doesn’t have experience, they may be unable to help you reach your fitness goals.

This is a notable downside of Planet Fitness, as many members join the gym specifically to get help from a trainer.

If you cannot get the help you need, you may as well work out at home.

To learn more, you can also read our posts on why Plant Fitness is so cheap, why Tropicana Field is so bad, and why LA Fitness is so expensive.

Conclusion

So, why is Planet Fitness so bad? There are many reasons, but the most common complaints are that the staff is unprofessional, the equipment is old, and in poor condition, the facilities are dirty, and the membership fees are too high.

If you’re on a budget, many other gyms offer more value for the price. But if you’re looking for a complete workout experience, you may want to look elsewhere.