The Short Answer About Saunas at Planet Fitness

Here’s the deal: most Planet Fitness locations do not have saunas. I know, I know—it’s not what you wanted to hear. But before you write them off completely, let me explain why and what they offer instead.

Planet Fitness built their entire brand around being the “Judgement Free Zone” that’s super affordable. We’re talking $10-$15 a month for basic membership and around $25-$30 for their Black Card membership. To keep those prices crazy low, they focus on the essentials: cardio equipment, strength training machines, free weights, and a welcoming atmosphere. The fancy spa-like amenities like saunas, steam rooms, and hot tubs? Those typically don’t make the cut at most locations.

Why Most Planet Fitness Gyms Skip the Sauna

Let’s talk about the business side for a second. Running a sauna isn’t cheap. You’ve got:

• High installation costs (we’re talking tens of thousands of dollars)
• Ongoing maintenance expenses that add up fast
• Increased utility bills from heating the sauna daily
• Extra staff time for cleaning and monitoring
• Liability insurance considerations

When you’re trying to keep membership fees at ten bucks a month, these costs just don’t pencil out. Planet Fitness chose to invest in having tons of equipment instead—think multiple squat racks, rows of treadmills, and enough ellipticals that you’re rarely waiting. For the price point, that’s honestly a pretty smart trade-off.

What About Black Card Members?

Now, if you upgrade to the Black Card membership (also called PF Black Card), you get some sweet perks. I’m talking:

• Unlimited guest privileges (bring a friend every time)
• Access to any Planet Fitness location nationwide
• Use of massage chairs (yes, these are amazing after leg day)
• Hydromassage beds at participating locations
• Tanning services if that’s your thing
• Half-priced drinks at the cooler

Notice what’s still missing? Yep, the sauna. Even with Black Card membership, saunas aren’t part of the standard package at most clubs. But those hydromassage beds and massage chairs can be clutch for muscle recovery, so you’re not completely out of luck.

Are There ANY Planet Fitness Locations With Saunas?

Here’s where it gets interesting. While it’s super rare, there are apparently a handful of Planet Fitness locations that do have saunas. These are usually:

• Older facilities that were converted from other gyms (and already had the sauna installed)
• Select premium locations in certain markets
• Franchise-owned clubs where the owner decided to add extra amenities

The catch? These are like unicorns. I’m talking maybe a dozen locations out of over 2,400 clubs nationwide. Your best bet is to call your specific local Planet Fitness directly and ask. Don’t just assume based on what you read online—seriously, just make the call. The front desk staff will know exactly what amenities their location offers.

What Recovery Options Does Planet Fitness Actually Offer?

Okay, so does Planet Fitness have a sauna? Usually no. But they’re not leaving you high and dry for recovery. Here’s what you can typically find:

Hydromassage Beds

These are pretty sweet. You lie down on a bed, and water jets massage your back and body through the surface. No getting wet, just pure relaxation. It’s like a massage without the awkwardness of another person touching you. Perfect for loosening up tight muscles after you’ve destroyed yourself at the gym.

Massage Chairs

Most locations have a few massage chairs that’ll knead your back, shoulders, and legs. They use rollers and air compression to work out those knots. I’ve spent many post-workout sessions in these bad boys, and they legitimately help with soreness.

Stretching Areas

Planet Fitness clubs usually have designated stretching zones with mats, foam rollers, and sometimes even stretching equipment. Proper stretching is honestly underrated for recovery. It won’t give you that sauna heat, but it’ll definitely help prevent injury and reduce muscle tightness.

Clean Locker Rooms and Showers

Every location has locker rooms with showers. They’re clean, they’re functional, and while they won’t replace a sauna session, a hot shower after your workout can still help relax your muscles and wash away the stress of the day.

Alternatives If You Really Want That Sauna Experience

Look, if sauna access is non-negotiable for you, I totally get it. Saunas have legit benefits like improved circulation, stress relief, and helping flush out toxins through sweating. Here are your options:

Check Out Other Gym Chains

Some gyms specifically cater to people who want more amenities:

• LA Fitness – Many locations have saunas and steam rooms
• 24 Hour Fitness – Select locations offer saunas
• Lifetime Fitness – Premium option with saunas, steam rooms, pools, and more
• YMCA – Many locations have saunas included with membership
• Equinox – High-end gyms with full spa amenities (but you’ll pay for it)

Just know that these memberships will cost you significantly more—anywhere from $40 to $200+ per month depending on the gym and location.

Standalone Sauna Studios

Infrared sauna studios have been popping up everywhere lately. Places like Perspire Sauna Studio or local wellness centers offer sauna-only memberships or drop-in sessions. You’d pay separately for this, but if you keep your Planet Fitness membership for workouts and add occasional sauna visits, it might still be cheaper than joining a full-service gym.

Home Sauna Options

If you’re really committed, portable infrared saunas have gotten way more affordable. You can find decent ones for $200-$500 online. They’re not the same as a traditional dry sauna, but they’ll get you sweating in the comfort of your own home.

Day Spas and Public Facilities

Some day spas, Korean spas, or even public facilities like community centers offer day passes for sauna use. It’s not as convenient as having it at your gym, but it’s an option if you just want the occasional sauna session.

How to Find Out What Your Local Planet Fitness Offers

Don’t just guess—here’s exactly what you should do:

1. Call your local club directly. Google the phone number for your nearest Planet Fitness and just ask: “Do you have a sauna?” Simple as that.
2. Visit in person. Most Planet Fitness locations offer free tours. Walk in, check out the facilities, and see what amenities they actually have.
3. Ask about the guest pass. They usually let you try the gym for free for a day. Use that trial to scope out everything they offer.
4. Check their specific location page. The Planet Fitness website lets you look up individual clubs. Sometimes they’ll list amenities, though this info isn’t always complete or up-to-date.
5. Read recent Google reviews. Other members often mention what amenities exist (or don’t exist) at specific locations.

Is Planet Fitness Still Worth It Without a Sauna?

Real talk? For most people, yes—absolutely. Here’s why I still think it’s a solid choice:

The Price Point Is Unbeatable

Where else are you getting gym access for $10-15 a month? That’s less than two fancy coffees. Even if you add the Black Card for $25, you’re still paying less than most gyms charge for basic membership.

Equipment and Availability

Planet Fitness locations are usually spacious with tons of equipment. The Judgement Free Zone atmosphere means you’re not dealing with gym bros hogging equipment or people grunting obnoxiously. It’s genuinely welcoming for beginners.

Convenient Locations

With over 2,400 locations, there’s probably one near your house, your work, or both. That convenience factor matters way more than you think when it comes to actually sticking with a gym routine.

Open 24/7 (Most Locations)

Many Planet Fitness clubs are open 24 hours on weekdays, which is clutch if you work weird hours or just prefer working out when it’s quiet.

Clean Facilities

From what I’ve seen, Planet Fitness locations are consistently clean. They take hygiene seriously, which became even more important post-pandemic.

The Bottom Line on Planet Fitness and Saunas

So, does Planet Fitness have a sauna? The honest answer is: probably not at your location. It’s just not part of their standard business model. They’re focused on providing affordable, no-frills fitness access rather than spa-like amenities.

But here’s the thing—that doesn’t mean it’s a bad gym. If your main goal is to lift weights, do cardio, and maybe enjoy some massage chairs afterward, Planet Fitness delivers. The price-to-value ratio is tough to beat, especially for casual gym-goers or people just starting their fitness journey.

If sauna access is genuinely important to your workout routine and recovery strategy, you’ll need to look elsewhere or supplement your Planet Fitness membership with sauna access from another source. But for the vast majority of people? The lack of a sauna won’t make or break their fitness goals.

My advice? Take advantage of that free trial, check out your local Planet Fitness, and see if what they offer meets your needs. And hey, if you really miss the sauna, those massage chairs might just surprise you. They’re not the same, but they’re pretty damn nice for post-workout recovery.

At the end of the day, the best gym is the one you’ll actually go to consistently—and at ten bucks a month with no sauna but plenty of equipment, Planet Fitness makes it pretty easy to show up and do the work.