Get Fitter, Faster: Fitness, Food & Health Hacks

Hey, I'm Julien. I share a weekly newsletter designed to make you fitter. It's short, smart and actionable17k read it, I'd love you to join too. It's free.

I want to get fitter

Pizza and Doughnuts… at the GYM? How Planet Fitness Became The World’s Most Hated Gym

 Written by 

Julien Raby

 Last updated on 


Planet Fitness, a gym chain with over 2,000 locations worldwide, brands itself as a “Judgment-Free Zone” designed to welcome beginners. However, its policies, business practices, and member experiences have sparked widespread criticism, earning it the unflattering nickname “Planet Fatness.”

While Planet Fitness has achieved remarkable financial success, its restrictive rules and controversial marketing strategies have alienated many fitness enthusiasts. Here’s a closer look at why this gym chain is so polarizing.

planet-awful
  • Save

A Gym for Beginners—And No One Else

Planet Fitness set out to create a space that felt approachable to first-time gym-goers. Its marketing promotes an unintimidating environment, standing in stark contrast to traditional gyms like Gold’s Gym, where advanced lifters and bodybuilding culture are more prominent.

To achieve this, Planet Fitness actively discourages intermediate and advanced workouts. Signs in its facilities limit the weight load on machines, such as a leg press notice urging members not to exceed four plates per side. By prioritizing a beginner-friendly atmosphere, the gym also repels anyone who might take their workouts more seriously.

Restrictive Policies on Equipment and Workouts

The absence of key gym equipment like squat racks, deadlift platforms, or free-weight bench presses underscores the company’s focus on cardio and beginner-level workouts. Members looking to perform fundamental strength exercises are often left with only one option: the Smith machine, a controversial piece of equipment that limits natural movement patterns.

To further discourage advanced training, Planet Fitness bans certain exercises, including overhead presses, clean and jerks, and supersets. Additionally, dumbbells are capped at a modest 60-75 pounds, depending on the franchise.

These policies have frustrated countless gym-goers. Many report being reprimanded for lifting heavy weights or creating a perceived “intimidating” environment, as documented in numerous YouTube videos. Even prominent athletes like four-time World’s Strongest Man Brian Shaw have been kicked out of Planet Fitness for attempting heavier lifts.

The Infamous “Lunk Alarm”

One of Planet Fitness’ most controversial features is the “lunk alarm.” This alarm is designed to sound when staff detect someone lifting too intensely, dropping weights, or grunting—behaviors deemed disruptive in their beginner-friendly environment.

Critics argue that the alarm is not only unnecessary but also counterproductive. Startling gym-goers mid-lift could lead to accidents or injuries. Anecdotes abound of the alarm going off for trivial reasons, such as dropping a water bottle or making minimal noise during a workout.

Still, experiences with the lunk alarm vary. Some members report never hearing it during their time at Planet Fitness, while others say it depends entirely on the management at individual locations.

Dress Codes and Water Bottle Rules

Planet Fitness enforces a strict dress code to maintain its non-intimidating image. Banned attire includes string tank tops, do-rags, skull caps, and any outfit deemed too revealing. Members wearing tank tops or athletic shorts have reported being asked to cover up or change into provided t-shirts.

The gym’s policies extend to water bottles as well. Members using gallon jugs, a common sight in other gyms, have been denied entry or told to leave. In one viral video, a member was confronted because their water jug didn’t fit in the designated cup holder.

For many, these rules contradict Planet Fitness’ “Judgment-Free Zone” ethos. Critics see them as judgmental toward anyone who doesn’t fit the mold of a casual, beginner gym-goer.

Junk Food Days: Pizza and Bagels at the Gym

One of Planet Fitness’ most controversial practices is offering free pizza and bagels to its members. The first Monday of each month is “Pizza Monday,” while “Bagel Tuesday” takes place on the second Tuesday.

The gym justifies these events as occasional indulgences, stating that moderation is key and that one treat won’t derail fitness goals. Yet, many see it as counterproductive. The smell of pizza wafting through a gym often feels out of place, and critics argue that offering healthier snacks like protein bars or smoothies would align better with fitness goals.

Some even speculate that these junk food days are part of a larger strategy to keep members in a cycle of gaining and losing weight, ensuring they stay subscribed.

Membership Challenges and Cancellation Hassles

Planet Fitness’ $10-per-month membership is one of its biggest draws, appealing to people who may not use the gym frequently. However, canceling that membership often proves to be a challenge.

Unlike most modern gyms, cancellations must be done in person or via certified mail, which can be inconvenient for members. Reports of unexpected fees for early termination or unresolved billing issues have added to frustrations.

This strategy seems to benefit Planet Fitness financially. By targeting infrequent gym-goers, the gym can maintain high membership numbers without overcrowding facilities. It’s a model built for profit, even if it leaves many customers feeling trapped.

The Ironic “Judgment-Free Zone”

Planet Fitness has cultivated a niche by marketing itself as a safe space for beginners. However, this strategy comes with a significant trade-off: alienating anyone with serious fitness goals.

For a gym that prides itself on being judgment-free, critics argue that Planet Fitness practices heavy judgment—just not toward the demographic it’s trying to attract. Serious lifters, fitness enthusiasts, and even moderately advanced gym-goers often feel unwelcome.

Financial Success, But At What Cost?

Despite the backlash, Planet Fitness remains incredibly successful. Its beginner-focused business model and low membership fees have helped it expand globally.

Still, the gym’s reputation among the fitness community suffers. The restrictions, junk food offerings, and inconsistent policies leave many questioning whether Planet Fitness prioritizes health or profit.

For some, Planet Fitness is a welcoming, affordable option. For others, it represents everything wrong with the modern fitness industry. Ultimately, whether you love or hate it depends on what you’re looking for in a gym.

Share via
Copy link