What is the Best Gym Membership for You?

A lot of us are looking for more time to work out and more ways to save money. (In fact, it’s probably no surprise that saving money was the most popular New Year’s Resolution for the year.)

So, if you’re looking to get two birds with one stone, you might be thinking, “I wonder if there are any affordable gyms near me?”

It can be tricky to locate a gym that fits your workout needs and budget. Not every affordable gym option has the best value, so how do you find the right one?

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll help you understand how much it costs to go to the gym, as well as how to get the most value out of an affordable gym membership. 

And if you want to learn about Planet Fitness’ affordable membership options, find a club near you for support and expert guidance on how to get started. 

What is the Average Cost of Gym Memberships?

In 2022, average dues for gym memberships in the US were $59 each month, but that doesn’t tell the whole story since some gyms are way more expensive, and others much cheaper. 

The cost of gym memberships varies depending on a ton of factors—amenities at the gym, location, and club hours, to name a few. 

Pricing Plans & Membership Tiers

It’s pretty rare for gyms to only have a singular membership option. Multiple tiers and pricing plans allow members to customize their exercise experience based on their needs. 

Most gyms offer a basic membership to use the standard gym equipment and a premium option that allows access to additional amenities. Some gyms let you choose between an annual contract and a monthly membership.

So, on the one hand, if you commit yourself to regularly going to the gym all year, an annual contract may be the best option for you. But on the other hand, monthly memberships offer flexibility without a long-term commitment. 

Your gym may also provide additional discounts to your membership or run promotional specials, so be sure to ask a team member for help when you’re exploring options.

Examining Other Costs

Membership cost is one factor, but your membership may also include additional fees such as annual dues, orientation fees, processing charges, and class registration costs. Every gym is different, but these can add up. If you’re aiming to save money, it’s helpful to consider any additional costs.

Sometimes, gyms cost money in ways you never consider. For example, lockers might only be available through rentals, but others might let you use them for free. Even just getting to the gym can cost money. So, unless your gym is within walking distance, you’ll need to consider the cost of any gas, parking, or public transit fares.

Other Factors to Consider

But as we mentioned earlier, cost isn’t everything. A few final things to consider when making a gym membership decision: 

Operating Hours & Availability

You live a busy life. If you want a gym membership, make sure it's open when you’re free to work out. Maybe you like early morning or late night workout sessions. You should focus on finding a gym that will let you access it when you want to.

Community & Atmosphere

If you’re new to exercising or enjoy the social aspect of working out, look for a gym with a welcoming and motivating atmosphere, supportive team members, and workout classes.  You’ll be more interested in returning to the gym if you can tell that folks there want to include you. 

Weighing Your Options

When choosing a gym, there’s a lot to consider. Searching for “cheap gyms near me” will only get you so far. If you want to find an affordable gym, you have to focus on two things: a price that fits your budget and a membership that is supportive and valuable to you on your fitness journey. Ultimately, an affordable gym should provide a high-quality experience that fits your lifestyle and budget.

At Planet Fitness, we believe in providing a high-quality workout experience at an affordable cost. We also have different membership options, so you can pick the one that works best for you.

Our Classic Membership offers the best value on the planet with tons of equipment and clean, spacious facilities in our Judgement Free Zone®. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to your home club, free in-club fitness training, and tons of workouts on the PF App. Plus, being a Planet Fitness member gets you awesome deals & discounts on top brands you love that will fuel your fitness journey.

Our most popular membership—the PF Black Card®—is loaded with perks including use of any Planet Fitness worldwide, bringing a guest every time you work out, access to premium PF+ workouts & discounts, use of the Black Card Spa® where you can relax in massage chairs & HydroMassage™—just to name a few.*

Want to learn more? Visit your local club or get started now for FREE on the PF App.

*Services and perks subject to availability and restrictions. State and local restrictions on tanning frequency with PF Black Card® memberships apply. Participating locations only. See club for details.

Wellness isn't just about working out, and your path to well-being should be as relaxing as it is invigorating. That's where recovery activities like massage therapy-and more specifically, HydroMassage™-come in. HydroMassage™ fuses modern technology and ancient therapeutic techniques to relax your body, reduce tension, and promote recovery.

Below, we'll explore what HydroMassage™ is and its benefits for gym-goers. We'll also let you in on the perfect time to enjoy a few of these revitalizing HydroMassage™ sessions for yourself.

Don't start your wellness journey alone. Find a club near you for support and expert guidance when you need it.

What is Hydrotherapy?

Let's start with a little bit of history. Hydrotherapy is a holistic healing method that uses water to treat various health issues, including injury, stress, and pain. A naturopathic treatment widely used throughout the centuries, hydrotherapy utilizes water at different temperatures, pressures, durations, and sites to produce physiological and therapeutic effects on different body systems.

What is HydroMassage™?

HydroMassage™ is a type of hydrotherapy, although the two terms differ. Hydrotherapy involves soaking in warm water and enjoying types of massage via strong jets in a hot-tub-style setting.

HydroMassage™ gained popularity in the 1960s and has evolved alongside 21st-century technology. A HydroMassage™ table or chair is a massage machine that allows users to receive all the benefits of a relaxing massage while staying dry, comfortable, and in control. With the simple push of a button, the proper pressure and temperature are immediately available, providing a personalized and rejuvenating experience.

The Benefits of HydroMassage™ for Gym-Goers

Since the 1980s, collaborative research and review efforts have produced an astounding amount of scientific evidence to conclude that hydrotherapy is beneficial in the following ways:

• Stimulates blood circulation.

• Promotes relaxation.

• Reduces inflammation.

• Improves joint mobility and muscle flexibility, which is beneficial in recovering from injuries or relief from chronic conditions like arthritis.

• Enhances the immune system and aids in detoxification processes within the body.

The evolution of hydrotherapy into HydroMassage™ brings numerous benefits for gym-goers, supported by scientific evidence.

HydroMassage™: Before or After Workouts?

The best time to experience HydroMassage™? As often as possible! This therapeutic massage is difficult to overdo, so as often as you have time to indulge, it's a win for your body.

Before a workout, HydroMassage™ can be beneficial for flexibility, stress reduction, and relaxation. But stick to a gentle, low-pressure massage pre-workout in order to avoid deep massages that could cause muscle soreness and poor performance. And make sure you're also practicing a dynamic stretching sequence before diving into your workout.

After a workout, HydroMassage™ therapy offers numerous benefits, including reducing muscle soreness and inflammation and speeding up recovery. Deep-tissue massages can be more effective, especially after a workout, as they help improve blood circulation, deliver oxygen to muscles, and increase oxygen flow to affected areas. Post-workout massages also help reduce lactic acid buildup within muscles, which causes soreness due to decreased oxygen supply.

As a holistic therapeutic approach that helps improve overall well-being and performance, there's no wrong time to indulge in HydroMassage™ therapy.

How often should you get a HydroMassage™?

Now, the question remains: What's the ideal frequency for HydroMassage™ sessions? The answer is, well, it depends upon your unique needs and preferences. For some, weekly sessions could be the perfect routine, providing consistent stress relief and recovery. Others may find that an occasional indulgence suits their lifestyle better. Luckily, one of our favorite things about HydroMassage™ is its adaptability; it's a therapeutic treat that can align seamlessly with your individual wellness goals. Listen to your body and incorporate HydroMassage™ as often as it elevates your overall well-being.

Experience HydroMassage™ at Planet Fitness

While regular massage therapy can be expensive, it doesn't have to be. At Planet Fitness, massage chairs and HydroMassage™ are included with our most popular membership-the PF Black Card®. We're committed to supporting your fitness every step of the way, offering expert guidance and a haven for rejuvenation.

HydroMassage™ isn't just a massage; it blends the ancient wisdom of hydrotherapy with modern convenience for the ultimate relaxation and recovery experience. If you're ready to elevate your fitness routine with HydroMassage™, it's as simple as finding a Planet Fitness club near you.*

What are you waiting for? Experience the full benefits of relaxation and recovery by booking a HydroMassage™ session today.

*Amenities and Perks are subject to availability and restrictions. See home club for details.

Finding time for physical activity in today's fast-paced world can be challenging. We totally get it. Juggling work, childcare, and social obligations often leaves little room for regular exercise.

That's why finding a gym that can fit your busy schedule is so important when trying to make time to work out! Flexible-hour fitness centers provide the same benefits as traditional gyms but offer the freedom to work out whenever it suits your schedule.

Joining a gym can create a lifestyle that works for you-making your needs a priority. Find a local club with flexible hours for all schedules.

The Freedom to Choose Your Schedule

Life can be undeniably hectic-with work, family, and social commitments all demanding your time. That's why choosing a gym you can visit at all hours can be a significant game-changer. 24-hour gyms provide the freedom to work fitness seamlessly into your life.

And this isn't just about having extended hours; it's about allowing you the best time to work out for your schedule and unique lifestyle. Whether you're an early riser, a night owl, or someone who prefers the middle of the day, a gym with flexible hours caters to your needs.

Best Time to Work Out: Early Birds & Night Owls

Planet Fitness knows that preferred workout times and fitness routines come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you're an early bird who likes to seize the day with a morning workout or a night owl who finds an energy peak later in the evening, our convenient-sometimes 24-hour-gym access caters to all types.

Getting active is tough enough, and the truth is that any time is a good time to work out. However, studies show that the time of day you choose to work out may affect your health differently. So, if you have flexibility in your schedule, map out your fitness goals and how your preferred workout time aligns with those goals to find the best time that works for you.

Benefits of Morning Workouts

Morning workouts offer several advantages for those who are energized by the idea of starting the day with a bang. Research suggests that stress levels are typically higher in the morning for both men and women. Getting in some cardio exercises early in the day can help shake off that stress, contributing to improved mood, healthier food choices throughout the day, and a major boost in energy levels.

Benefits of Night Workouts

On the flip side of the day, nighttime workouts have been shown to increase muscle strength, thanks to fluctuating hormone levels throughout the day. Plus, late-night sessions may come with the advantage of the gym being less crowded, providing those who appreciate a quieter environment with an ideal setting.

Muscle function also tends to peak at night, which could enhance your overall workout performance. And contrary to popular belief, night workouts might even contribute to improved sleep quality, making it a great choice for those who prefer evening exercise.

Whether you're an early riser or a night owl, PF's inclusive and accommodating environment allows members to pursue their fitness goals in whatever way possible.

Consistency Through Varied Schedules

Workout consistency is a constant challenge. But members at gyms with flexible hours have the freedom to experiment with different workout times and find the best time to work out, especially when schedules are tight.

With a varied gym schedule, you can try it all. See how evening workouts can be balanced with your job commitments, social engagements, and overall well-being. Then, explore the benefits of morning workouts. Kickstart your day with a positive tone and harness that early energy to achieve a sense of accomplishment before the sun comes up. Take notice of how your body responds to morning workouts differently than evening sessions to determine what's ultimately right for you.

Switching up workout times may also come in handy when you feel stuck in a rut. Experimenting with various workout times can keep your fitness routine exciting and help you hit your stride in an ever-evolving calendar of other commitments, ensuring that exercise becomes a lifelong habit.

Remember, it's not about when you show up-it's just about showing up!

Balancing Work, Fitness, and Social Life

Remember, fitness is not just about workouts. It's about making healthier choices in all areas of life. We get it: balancing things like work, fitness, and your social life is hard!

Here’s a few tips for finding stability:

• Start Slow: Rome wasn't built in a day, nor is a sustainable fitness routine. Avoid the temptation to force yourself into long, intense workouts if your schedule doesn't allow for it. Instead, start with manageable routines that you can incorporate consistently. Even just 30 minutes in the gym—or finding other ways to move your body throughout the day—can provide you plenty of benefits!

• Plan a Schedule: Dedicate time to working out. Carve out space for it in your schedule like you would an appointment, meeting, or event. You could even consider combining it with your social life by inviting a friend for a hike or bike ride. 

• Prioritize Relaxation: Recognize that rest is important to any balanced fitness routine. Don't push yourself to work out every single day. Overexertion leads to burnout, so relaxation must be a priority to achieve balance.

• Combine Activities: There’s no denying the efficiency of multi-tasking. Consider combining fitness in creative ways. Want to get some quality time in? Find a friend to explore an active new hobby with. Can’t wait to catch the latest episode of your favorite show? Work out while you’re watching. Love scrolling on social media for the latest trends? Find a type of workout on YouTube you’ve never tried before. 

Searching for balance is an ongoing process. You’ll be making micro-adjustments for the rest of your life. There’s no rush—just take small steps every day!

Strategic Timing & Avoiding Crowds

As you begin your fitness journey, consider what is essential for you to enjoy a positive and motivating workout experience.

When you opt for 24-hour gyms or one with flexible hours, you can make intentional choices about how you exercise. Some people thrive in the bustling energy of a crowded gym, feeling motivated by fellow fitness enthusiasts. Others feel more comfortable in a quieter setting, preferring to navigate their workout routine with fewer people around. 

Think about your preferences and what works for you. If you're motivated by the buzz of activity and the sight of others committed to their fitness goals, you might choose peak hours when the gym is alive with energy. On the other hand, if you prefer a more focused workout, selecting slower hours can provide a quieter, more private setting. With a Planet Fitness membership, you can pick the best time to visit by checking out the Crowd Meter in the PF App.

What About 24-Hour Flexibility?

While not all Planet Fitness locations offer 24-hour gym access, many provide extended hours to suit varying schedules*.  

Embarking on a fitness journey doesn't mean sacrificing your schedule or disrupting daily life. Finding a gym with flexible hours gives you the support and guidance to take your journey head-on and work fitness seamlessly into your routine. From early-morning workouts to late-night sessions, these clubs allow you to choose when and how you prioritize your health. 

Experience a fitness journey that aligns with your lifestyle and leads you to a healthier, happier you. Get started now for free on the PF App.

*Amenities and Perks are subject to availability and restrictions. See home club for details.