Have you ever ever signed up for a gym only to appreciate it wasn’t the correct fit, and now you will have to cope with the headache of attempting to cancel and switch gyms? Now we have, that is why we would like to allow you to avoid being in the identical position.
We’re putting two well-known gym chains head-to-head, 24 Hour Fitness vs Planet Fitness, to see which one should get your corporation. We’ll take a look at cost, amenities, the gym environment, and other aspects to allow you to make the most effective decision possible. With none further ado…
24 Hour Fitness Overview
24 Hour Fitness (24HF) was founded in 1983 by Mark Mastrov in California. Because the original gym, 24 Hour Fitness has expanded to 287 locations throughout america.
24HF sites are known to be expansive, with amenities not present in your standard gym. Although the name states “24 Hour”, only select locations are literally open 24/7. There are several different membership tiers to pick from, which we’ll get into later.
Planet Fitness Overview
In the event you own a TV, there’s almost a non-zero likelihood that you have seen a Planet Fitness (PF) business (“I pick things up and put them down” is the one which springs to mind).
The primary PF opened in 1993 as a spot for non-bodybuilders to get a workout without feeling intimidated. Since then, the variety of PFs has exploded to over 2,400 locations. You may’t throw a rock without hitting one. The fundamental focus of the gym is to create a spot where beginners can feel comfortable without the judging eyes present in “more serious” gyms.
Membership Costs
24 Hour Fitness Pricing:
24HF offers three different membership tiers, considered one of which is simply available in select clubs. Prices vary based on location and whether you select to pay monthly or lock right into a yearly contract.
For the monthly costs:
- Silver: $14.99 to $29.99
- Gold: $26.99 to $49.99
- Platinum: $39.99 to $64.99
For the yearly option:
- Silver: $9.99 to $24.99/month
- Gold: $21.99 to $44.99/month
- Platinum: $34.99 to $59.99/month
So, what do you get for every tier?
- Silver – Free weights and machines, cardio equipment, functional training area, TRX suspension training, Olympic rigs, WiFi, locker room access
- Gold – All the pieces above plus: 24GO fitness app, GX24 studio classes, GX24 Cycle classes, Basketball court, Racquetball court, Lap pool, Sauna, Steam room, Whirlpool
- Platinum – All the pieces within the above tiers plus 24GO Premium digital, GX24 Virtual classes, Buddy pass
It needs to be noted that there are often initiation and annual maintenance fees, so plan on throwing down some extra money on these fees. At all times check for promotions!
Planet Fitness Pricing:
PF is understood for having a few of the lowest prices around for a gym membership. They’re grouped into two tiers, each with no minimum commitment: Classic and Black Card.
Classic – $15/month, $59 startup fee, $49 annual fee
Included with the Classic membership is:
- Unlimited access to the house gym (where you signed up)
- Free in-club fitness training
- PF App workouts
- Free WiFiWiFi
Black Card – $25/month, $1 startup fee, $49 annual fee
Included with the Black Card membership is:
- Unlimited access to any Planet Fitness
- PF+ Exclusive App workouts
- Free in-club training
- Bring a guest
- Use of massage chairs
- Use of tanning
- Use of Total Body Enhancement
- 50% off select drinks
Verdict
In the event you’re in search of the lowest-cost option, PF is the go-to, without query. There are some cases where the Silver membership for 24HF is cheaper, however it requires a yearly commitment, and never all 24HFs even offer it as an option.
Amenities and Equipment
24 Hour Fitness:
As you saw from the list of what each membership tier gets you at 24HF, there are a ton of amenities offered: pools, saunas, basketball courts, racquetball courts, whirlpools, steam rooms, free weight areas, machine weights, Olympic lift setups, functional training areas, cardio equipment galore, and spin rooms for group classes.
They provide just about every thing you would hope for in a gym.
Planet Fitness:
PF, alternatively, offers dumbbells, Smith machines, cardio machines, TRX suspension training, massage chairs, red light therapy, and tanning. That is just about it. There aren’t any Olympic barbells, so when you’re trying to train as a powerlifter, this will not be the most effective option. In the event you’re a beginner, though, there’s good enough to start with.
Verdict
24HF takes this one by a mile. Serious lifters will get frustrated with PF’s lack of free weights, and people trying to do anything but the fundamentals will find rather a lot left to be desired. In the event you are a beginner or know methods to adjust your workout on the fly, PF is not a terrible alternative, but 24HF undoubtedly offers far more options.
Classes and Training Options
24 Hour Fitness:
Most 24HF members can reap the benefits of the many group fitness classes offered. Starting from strength classes, cycle classes, dance classes, cardio and HIIT classes, yoga and Pilates classes, and lively aging classes, 24HF has something for everybody.
Personal training can also be offered at 24HF. Pricing is determined by location and the way often you intend on training with them.
Planet Fitness:
PF doesn’t offer traditional classes but will do group workouts called PE@PF. These are generally performed in small groups and are broken up into the next categories:
- Orientation
- 30-Minute Express Circuit
- Chest and Biceps
- Back and Triceps
- Legs and Shoulders
- Core
- Stretch
A licensed trainer runs each class, however the classes will not be personalized.
Verdict
24HF takes the cake on their offerings. In the event you like group training or need to work one-on-one with a private trainer who considers your specific needs, 24HF is a no brainer. PF will still be option if group classes and private training don’t appeal to you.
Gym Culture and Atmosphere
24 Hour Fitness:
24HF is a fairly good mix of significant gym junkies and people who prefer to dabble in understanding. You may expect to feel supported in addition to challenged. In the event you’re a competitor, that is the sort of environment you will thrive in.
Planet Fitness:
PF is notorious for its “Judgement Free Zone,” meaning you will not catch anyone snickering if someone is doing an exercise unsuitable or lifting very lightweight. There is a welcoming atmosphere, with most individuals understanding that everyone seems to be there to enhance their health and never lift heavier dumbbells than the person next to them.
Verdict
Natural born competitor? 24HF. More relaxed approach to fitness? PF.
Hours of Operation
24 Hour Fitness:
While it was true to its name, after the pandemic, hours of operation modified in just about all locations. While some have returned to being open 24/7, others have stayed on the adjusted hours. You’ll need to envision in your local 24HF hours to make certain.
Planet Fitness:
Planet Fitness also offers 24/7 access at many locations, though hours can vary, especially in slower locations. Similar to 24HF, you’ll need to do a little analysis in your local PF.
Verdict
Split right down the center on this one!
Pros and Cons
24 Hour Fitness:
Pros
- Comprehensive equipment and a wide range of amenities
- Big selection of classes and private training options
- 24/7 access for many locations
Cons
- Higher membership costs in comparison with budget gyms
- It might probably be intimidating for beginners
Planet Fitness:
Pros
- Super budget friendly
- Friendly and non-intimidating atmosphere
- Perks for Black Card members, like guest privileges and access to all locations
Cons
- Limited equipment, especially for serious weightlifters
- Fewer class and private training options
Who Should Join Which Gym?
24 Hour Fitness:
In the event you need a gym that gives heaps of amenities, classes, and equipment, 24HF is a superb option. Someone who doesn’t mind shelling out some extra money for an all-encompassing gym experience will find 24HF an excellent match for his or her needs. Those trying to get serious about their fitness goals and wish to have access to a myriad of workout options should seriously consider 24HF.
Planet Fitness:
PF is an excellent option for those trying to begin their fitness journey, casual gym-goers, and folks on a budget. If you ought to increase your overall health fairly than simply your bench press, PF is a welcoming environment to get you on the trail to fitness.
Virtual Tour
You may read all about what the gyms are like, but how a few peek inside?
24 Hour Fitness Virtual Tour
This playlist, dropped at you by the official 24 Hour Fitness website, permits you to take a look at 57 different 24HF locations. Who knows? Your local gym may be on here!
Planet Fitness Virtual Tour
This official Planet Fitness channel video is an excellent method to get a sneak peek of the tour you normally take when visiting a PF for the primary time.
Wrap-Up
Each 24 Hour Fitness and Planet Fitness offer something unique to the fitness world. Whether you wish a gym that has a ton of amenities and training options or a wallet-friendly, more basic experience, you will have two great options to pick from.
Pick the gym that matches up together with your health goals and training preferences. I counsel you to look at without spending a dime trials or day passes, so you may see the way you like whenever you’re actually understanding. One other pro tip: visit the gym during your planned workout hours so you may see how busy it’s during that point. Whichever gym you select, congratulations on wanting to turn out to be the most effective version of yourself!
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