A Comparison Between Anytime Fitness And Planet Fitness [Differences, Pros, And Cons]

Last Updated on September 6, 2023 by Chase Reiner

Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness are popular gym chains. Anytime Fitness has 4,000+ locations worldwide, emphasizing 24/7 access. Planet Fitness has 2,400+ locations, offering budget-friendly memberships and a “Judgment Free Zone” atmosphere, but with fewer amenities compared to Anytime Fitness.

What Are The Differences Between Anytime Fitness And Planet Fitness?

Let’s start by appreciating that the two chains of gyms are separate entities under separate management. On the other hand, we must accept that businesses are run differently; hence, regardless of offering the same services, Anytime Fitness gyms and Planet Fitness gyms have glaring differences. The outstanding difference is that while Anytime Fitness facilities are small, Planet fitness Facilities boasts larger facilities.

The Differences Between Anytime Fitness And Planet Fitness

	Anytime Fitness	Planet Fitness
Cost	The membership fee varies from location to location. The average cost is $27-$30, and bi-weekly taxes.	The classic plan costs $10 a month and taxes, while the Black card plan goes for $22.99.
Contract Duration	Duration varies according to location. Some locations offer 12 and 24-month plans, while others offer monthly contracts.	Offers monthly plans, but the black card requires a 12-month commitment.
Equipment	Treadmills, Stationary bikes, rowers, bikes, elliptical, and rogue echo	Cardio and resistance machines.
Policies	Membership is transferable.No strict dress cord. You may terminate your membership by providing a 30-days notice.No dropping of weights is allowed.	No weight dropping.No working out on a crop top or sports bra and minimalist shorts. No membership transfer You are allowed to cancel membership subject to terms and conditions.
Group Training	Availability of group training sessions.	No group classes
Personal training	All personal trainers must be certified by an accredited institution	All personal trainers must have certification.
Amenities	Smoothie bars, Lockers, red light therapy, massage chairs, and tanning booths.	Has smoothie bars, lockers. Massage chairs, tanning booths, and red light therapy.
Gym Atmosphere	Welcoming environment.	Serene atmosphere
Operating Hours	Accessible any time.	Open 24/7
Locations	Gyms are distributed in 4500 locations in Europe, North America, Oceania, and Asia.	Has presence in 2000 locations, mainly in the USA.

Overview Of Anytime Fitness And Planet Fitness

Enrolling for a gym membership is a strenuous process, bearing in mind that you have to pay the registration fee and meet a few other requirements. It isn’t worth registering in a gym and realizing later that it doesn’t meet your needs. Let’s walk together so that you can get an in-depth understanding of these two chain gyms.

Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness facilities boast exceptional strength and cardio machines and are open to members 24/7, meaning you can access your favorite gym any time of the day. The facilities are small, but they offer free weights and other functional training equipment to meet the goals of all members.

Anytime Fitness clubs ensure members are motivated by organizing challenges and events that enable them to interact, hence fostering friendship among members. The interaction grows too strong communities knitted together for a common purpose, thus a robust support system. 

Pros Of Anytime Fitness Gyms

1. The clubs have certified personal trainers with a positive reputation.

2. The clubs have a welcoming and positive environment.

3. Gyms are open 24/7. Thus, you can access the facility at any time of the day.

4. If your membership is 30 days and above, you are free to use it to access any of their facilities globally.

5. The facilities are suitable for newbies and veteran gym-goers.

6. Anytime Fitness allows you to transfer your membership.

7. You have an option to cancel your membership at any time.

Cons

1. Expensive membership fee.

2. You are prohibited from dropping weights.

Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is renowned for its budget-friendly gyms, primarily based in the USA. The gyms’ primary aim is to offer a non-intimating environment that is judgmental-free.

According to their slogan, all are welcome to the gym. However, it is unfortunate that cross-fitters, Powerlifters, and bodybuilders have no place in the gyms as they don’t have equipment befitting them.

It is important to note that Planet Fitness doesn’t have barbells and heavy dumbbells. If you enjoy doing overhead presses, Planet Fitness isn’t your gym. No overhead presses are allowed at the facilities.

Planet Fitness facilities don’t have deadlift platforms and squat racks.

What’s Prohibited At Planet Fitness?

Large water bottles, excessive noise, and chalk used are not entertained at Planet Fitness. If the facilities’ employees deem your action to be intimidating to other members, they can ring the alarm for you.

If you are a weightlifting enthusiast, please stay away from Planet Fitness facilities. The gyms are ideal for treadmill fanatics, light dumbbell lifters, people not interested in strength training, and beginners.

Pros Of Planet Fitness Gyms

1. The facilities provide members with free Wi-Fi connectivity.

2. Black card members have the freedom to use their membership at any facility regardless of the location.

3. The gyms provide affordable and pocket-friendly membership plans.

4. Black card membership affords you discounts at Reebok.com

5. There are no hidden charges.

Cons

1. The facilities don’t have squat racks, barbells, or deadlift platforms.

2. You are not allowed to carry large water bottles.

3. No chalk is allowed in the facilities.

4. The facilities allow light dumbbells with a maximum of 50 lbs.

5. You are not allowed to transfer membership to another individual.

Choosing Between Anytime Fitness And Planet Fitness

Making a decision between Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness can be challenging, considering both have unique offerings and benefits. The following listicle provides an extensive, side-by-side comparison to make the selection process easier. 

1. Price

• Anytime Fitness: This gym operates on a contractual basis with monthly rates that vary, predominantly between $35 and $60. The cost usually includes joint or family memberships.
• Planet Fitness: Known for being highly affordable, Planet Fitness offers membership at $10 per month via its no-commitment plan, and $22.99 for its PF Black Card membership, which comes with several perks.

2. Operating Hours

• Anytime Fitness: As the name suggests, Anytime Fitness operates 24/7. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals having fluctuating schedules or who prefer to workout at unconventional times.
• Planet Fitness: While many locations operate 24/7, hours can vary depending on the specific location. Be sure to check with your local club for their timings.

3. Equipment

• Anytime Fitness: Anytime Fitness clubs typically have a variety of cardiovascular and resistance training equipment, plus free weights and a functional training area.
• Planet Fitness: While also well-equipped with cardio and strength training machinery, it’s worth noting that Planet Fitness places restrictions on heavy lifting and grunting, catering to more beginner-level fitness goers.

4. Classes

• Anytime Fitness: Many Anytime Fitness locations offer instructor-led classes, including spinning, Zumba, and more. Some facilities also offer virtual classes.
• Planet Fitness: Planet Fitness doesn’t provide traditional group fitness classes. However, it does offer individual training sessions as part of the membership package.

5. Facilities and Perks

• Anytime Fitness: Anytime Fitness provides private showers, wellness programs, and a global access card that allows members to utilize any of the 4,000+ locations worldwide.
• Planet Fitness: Planet Fitness often includes locker rooms, showers, and perks such as unlimited use of massage chairs and tanning facilities for PF Black Card members.

6. Community

• Anytime Fitness: Anytime Fitness places significant emphasis on community, with many locations fostering close-knit communities that host events and challenges to motivate members.
• Planet Fitness: Upholding a “Judgement Free Zone” that emphasizes a non-intimidating atmosphere, Planet Fitness targets those new to fitness or looking for a low-key workout environment.

Deciding between Anytime Fitness and Planet Fitness primarily comes down to personal preferences, workout goals, and budget. While Anytime Fitness offers a community-oriented, flexible model with comprehensive equipment, Planet Fitness delivers a budget-friendly, beginner-centric model, focusing on comfortable and non-intimidating workout experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Should I Pay To Be A Member Of Planet Fitness Or Anytime Fitness?

To be a member of Anytime Fitness, you have to pay a fee ranging between $27-$30 and bi-weekly taxes. Joining for the first time requires paying dues worth two weeks and an initiation fee of $99 used for administrative purposes. Additionally, you are required to pay $25 for the key fob.

On the other hand, Planet Fitness comes with two membership plans; Classic and black card. The classic plan goes for $10 per month plus taxes, whereas a black card is worth $22.9 per month. Both memberships require that you pay a $39 annual fee.

The Takeaway

Gym clubs all over provide different services. While Anytime Fitness offers strength training, Planet fitness focuses on light training suitable for beginners and treadmill runners. Both facilities are fantastic, but your choice primarily depends on the kind of training you desire. If you have doubts about the best gym that meets your requirements, this page has analyzed them for you to make an informed choice.