Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Sam Coleman, Co-founder
FACT CHECKED
Have you ever signed up for a gym only to realize it wasn't the right fit, and now you have to deal with the headache of trying to cancel and switch gyms? We have, that's why we want to help you avoid being in the same 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 business. We'll look at cost, amenities, the gym environment, and other factors to help you make the best decision possible. Without any further ado…
24 Hour Fitness Overview
24 Hour Fitness (24HF) was founded in 1983 by Mark Mastrov in California. Since the original gym, 24 Hour Fitness has expanded to 287 locations throughout the United States.
24HF sites are known to be expansive, with amenities not found in your standard gym. Although the name states "24 Hour", only select locations are actually open 24/7. There are several different membership tiers to choose from, which we'll get into later.
Check out our in-depth 24 Hour Fitness Review
Planet Fitness Overview
If you own a TV, there's almost a non-zero chance that you've seen a Planet Fitness (PF) commercial ("I pick things up and put them down" is the one that springs to mind).
The first PF opened in 1993 as a place for non-bodybuilders to get a workout without feeling intimidated. Since then, the number of PFs has exploded to over 2,400 locations. You can't throw a rock without hitting one. The main focus of the gym is to create a place where beginners can feel comfortable without the judging eyes found in "more serious" gyms.
Membership Costs
24 Hour Fitness Pricing:
24HF offers three different membership tiers, one of which is only available in select clubs. Prices vary based on location and whether you decide to pay monthly or lock 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 each tier?
- Silver - Free weights and machines, cardio equipment, functional training area, TRX suspension training, Olympic rigs, WiFi, locker room access
- Gold - Everything above plus: 24GO fitness app, GX24 studio classes, GX24 Cycle classes, Basketball court, Racquetball court, Lap pool, Sauna, Steam room, Whirlpool
- Platinum - Everything in the above tiers plus 24GO Premium digital, GX24 Virtual classes, Buddy pass
It should be noted that there are usually initiation and annual maintenance fees, so plan on throwing down some extra cash on these fees. Always check for promotions!
Planet Fitness Pricing:
PF is known for having some of the lowest prices around for a gym membership. They are grouped into two tiers, both 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 home 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
*There are taxes and fees that aren't included in these prices.
Verdict
If you're looking for the lowest-cost option, PF is the go-to, without question. There are some cases where the Silver membership for 24HF is cheaper, but it requires a yearly commitment, and not 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 offer pretty much everything you could hope for in a gym.
Planet Fitness:
PF, on the other hand, offers dumbbells, Smith machines, cardio machines, TRX suspension training, massage chairs, red light therapy, and tanning. That's pretty much it. There are no Olympic barbells, so if you're looking to train as a powerlifter, this may not be the best option. If you're a beginner, though, there is more than enough to get started with.
Verdict
24HF takes this one by a mile. Serious lifters will get frustrated with PF's lack of free weights, and those looking to do anything but the basics will find a lot left to be desired. If you are a beginner or know how to adjust your workout on the fly, PF isn't a terrible choice, but 24HF undoubtedly offers way more options.
Classes and Training Options
24 Hour Fitness:
Most 24HF members can take advantage of the numerous group fitness classes offered. Ranging from strength classes, cycle classes, dance classes, cardio and HIIT classes, yoga and Pilates classes, and active aging classes, 24HF has something for everyone.
Personal training is also offered at 24HF. Pricing depends on location and how often you plan 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 following categories:
- Orientation
- 30-Minute Express Circuit
- Chest and Biceps
- Back and Triceps
- Legs and Shoulders
- Core
- Stretch
A certified trainer runs each class, but the classes are not personalized.
Verdict
24HF takes the cake on their offerings. If you like group training or want to work one-on-one with a personal trainer who considers your specific needs, 24HF is a no-brainer. PF will still be a good option if group classes and personal training don't appeal to you.
Gym Culture and Atmosphere
24 Hour Fitness:
24HF is a pretty good mix of serious gym junkies and those who like to dabble in working out. You can expect to feel supported as well as challenged. If you're a competitor, this is the kind of environment you'll thrive in.
Planet Fitness:
PF is notorious for its "Judgement Free Zone," meaning you won't catch anyone snickering if someone is doing an exercise wrong or lifting very lightweight. There's a welcoming atmosphere, with most people understanding that everyone is there to improve their health and not 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 used to be true to its name, after the pandemic, hours of operation changed in almost all locations. While some have returned to being open 24/7, others have stayed on the adjusted hours. You'll have to check for your local 24HF hours to be sure.
Planet Fitness:
Planet Fitness also offers 24/7 access at many locations, though hours can vary, especially in slower locations. Just like 24HF, you'll have to do some research on your local PF.
Verdict
Split right down the middle on this one, you could run a 7 Day Gym Workout Plan at both!
Pros and Cons
24 Hour Fitness:
Pros
- Comprehensive equipment and a variety of amenities
- Wide range of classes and personal training options
- 24/7 access for most locations
Cons
- Higher membership costs compared to budget gyms
- It can 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 personal training options
Who Should Join Which Gym?
24 Hour Fitness:
If you want a gym that offers heaps of amenities, classes, and equipment, 24HF is an excellent option. Someone who doesn't mind shelling out some extra cash for an all-encompassing gym experience will find 24HF a great match for their needs. Those looking to get serious about their fitness goals and want to have access to a myriad of workout options should seriously consider 24HF.
Planet Fitness:
PF is a great option for those looking to begin their fitness journey, casual gym-goers, and people on a budget. If you want to increase your overall health rather than just your bench press, PF is a welcoming environment to get you on the path to fitness.
Virtual Tour
You can read all about what the gyms are like, but how about a peek inside?
24 Hour Fitness Virtual Tour
This playlist, brought to you by the official 24 Hour Fitness website, lets you check out 57 different 24HF locations. Who knows? Your local gym might be on here!
Planet Fitness Virtual Tour
This official Planet Fitness channel video is a great way to get a sneak peek of the tour you normally take when visiting a PF for the first time.
Wrap-Up
Both 24 Hour Fitness and Planet Fitness offer something unique to the fitness world. Whether you want a gym that has a ton of amenities and training options or a wallet-friendly, more basic experience, you have two great options to choose from.
Pick the gym that matches up with your health goals and training preferences. I advise you to watch for free trials or day passes, so you can see how you like when you're actually working out. Another pro tip: visit the gym during your planned workout hours so you can see how busy it is during that time. Whichever gym you choose, congratulations on wanting to become the best version of yourself!
Check out more head-to-head gym comparisons:
Tyler DiGiovanni
Author