Yes, you can tan at Planet Fitness, but not anytime. Planet Fitness tanning availability is dependent on specific membership tiers and gym operating hours. While the “Judgement Free Zone” aims to be accessible, tanning services come with specific rules and are generally included with higher membership levels.
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Exploring Planet Fitness Tanning
Many people wonder about the convenience and accessibility of tanning at Planet Fitness. It’s a popular amenity, especially for those who are members of higher-tier plans. Let’s dive deep into what you need to know about Planet Fitness tanning, covering everything from its availability to its costs and rules.
Planet Fitness Tanning Membership Options
Planet Fitness offers a few membership tiers, and tanning is typically a perk of their premium Black Card membership. This is a key factor in determining your Planet Fitness tanning availability.
- Basic Membership: This is the most affordable option. It grants access to the gym floor, cardio equipment, strength training machines, and group fitness classes. However, it does not include tanning or access to other premium amenities.
- PF Black Card Membership: This is the all-inclusive membership. For a higher monthly fee, you get all the benefits of the Basic Membership, plus:
- Access to any Planet Fitness location nationwide.
- Ability to bring a guest for free every time you visit.
- Use of massage chairs.
- Unlimited use of tanning beds and spray tan booths.
So, to answer the question directly: if you have a PF Black Card membership, you can use the tanning facilities. If you have a basic membership, you cannot. This is a fundamental aspect of the Planet Fitness tanning policy.
Planet Fitness Tanning Beds and Spray Tans
Planet Fitness aims to provide a comprehensive tanning experience. They offer two main Planet Fitness tanning options: tanning beds and spray tan booths.
Tanning Beds
Planet Fitness typically has at least one type of tanning bed available. The specific models can vary by location, but they are generally designed for a quick and effective tan.
- Level 1 Tanning Beds: These are often the standard offering. They are designed for users who want a gradual tan or are new to tanning. They provide a good base tan and are less intense than higher-level beds.
- Potentially Higher Level Beds: Some locations might offer higher-level tanning beds as well, though this is less common and can sometimes be an additional cost or only available through specific promotions. It’s always best to check with your local Planet Fitness tanning locations for their exact offerings.
These beds are usually available during gym operating hours, but it’s important to note that there might be specific times when they are reserved for maintenance or are in high demand.
Spray Tan Booths
For those who prefer a sunless tanning experience, Planet Fitness offers spray tan booths. These automated booths provide a quick and even spray tan application.
- Mystic Tan: Planet Fitness often uses Mystic Tan booths, which are known for their automated spray tan process. You typically select your desired shade and enter the booth for a full-body spray tan.
- How it Works: The booth sprays a fine mist of DHA (dihydroxyacetone), the active ingredient in most sunless tanners, onto your skin. DHA reacts with the dead skin cells on your skin’s surface to temporarily darken the skin.
Spray tans are a great alternative for those who want to avoid UV exposure or are looking for a quick tan.
Planet Fitness Tanning Hours and Availability
The question of “Can you tan anytime at Planet Fitness?” is directly tied to their operating hours and the availability of the tanning equipment.
- Gym Operating Hours: Planet Fitness gyms generally have long operating hours, often 24/7 or close to it, especially on weekdays. However, the tanning beds and spray tan booths may not be available during these entire times.
- Tanning Area Hours: The Planet Fitness tanning hours for the tanning beds and spray tan booths are often more restricted than the gym’s main hours. Typically, the tanning areas close earlier than the rest of the gym. For example, if the gym closes at 11 PM, the tanning beds might stop allowing new users at 10 PM or the entire tanning area might close at 10:30 PM.
- Peak Times: During busy periods, there might be a wait to use the tanning beds or spray tan booths. Planet Fitness doesn’t typically take appointments for tanning. You usually have to go and see if a bed is available. This means Planet Fitness tanning availability can fluctuate based on how busy the gym is.
- Maintenance: Like any equipment, tanning beds and spray tan booths require periodic maintenance. This can lead to temporary unavailability.
To know the exact Planet Fitness tanning hours for your specific location, it’s always best to:
- Check the Planet Fitness website or app for your local club’s hours and amenities.
- Call your local Planet Fitness directly.
- Visit the gym and look for posted hours near the tanning area.
Planet Fitness Tanning Cost: What You Need to Know
The Planet Fitness tanning cost is a significant factor for many potential members. As mentioned, tanning is generally included with the PF Black Card membership.
- PF Black Card Membership Fee: The monthly fee for the PF Black Card membership typically ranges from $22.99 to $24.99, plus an annual fee and a startup fee. This cost provides unlimited access to tanning.
- No Pay-Per-Use Option: Planet Fitness generally does not offer a pay-per-use option for tanning for non-Black Card members. You cannot pay a small fee to use the tanning beds if you only have a basic membership.
- Included Benefit: For Black Card members, tanning is an included benefit, meaning there’s no additional cost beyond your monthly membership fee for using the tanning beds or spray tans. This makes it a cost-effective option for frequent tanners.
Consider the Value: If you were to pay for tanning sessions at a dedicated tanning salon, the cost could easily exceed the monthly fee of a PF Black Card membership, especially if you tan regularly.
Planet Fitness Tanning Rules and Protocols
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all members, Planet Fitness has established Planet Fitness tanning rules. Adhering to these rules is crucial for maintaining the equipment and ensuring everyone gets a fair chance to use the facilities.
General Rules:
- Membership Requirement: You must have an active PF Black Card membership to use the tanning facilities.
- Time Limits: There are usually time limits for tanning sessions to prevent overuse and allow others to use the equipment. These limits can vary by location but are often around 10-15 minutes per session.
- Frequency Limits: Some locations may enforce limits on how often you can tan per day or week to ensure fair access and equipment longevity.
- Protective Eyewear: It is mandatory to wear protective eyewear (goggles) while using tanning beds. These are usually provided in the tanning area, or you may need to bring your own. The Planet Fitness tanning policy strongly emphasizes eye protection.
- Cleanliness: Members are expected to maintain cleanliness in the tanning area. This includes wiping down the beds after use with the provided sanitizing solutions and disposing of any used items properly.
- No Lotions or Oils: Generally, tanning lotions or oils not specifically designed for tanning beds are prohibited. This is because some products can damage the acrylic surfaces of the beds. Specialized tanning lotions are usually allowed.
- Towels: Bring a towel to lie on or wrap yourself in after your session.
- No Food or Drinks: As with the rest of the gym, food and drinks (other than water) are not permitted in the tanning area.
Spray Tan Booth Rules:
- Protective Gear: You might be provided with disposable hair caps, foot covers, and sticky strips for your hands and feet to ensure an even tan and prevent over-coloring.
- Post-Tan Waiting: It’s important to allow the spray tan to dry completely before dressing. Wear loose, dark clothing to avoid ruining your tan or your clothes.
- Exfoliation: For the best results, exfoliate your skin thoroughly before your spray tan session. Avoid applying lotions or deodorants to your skin immediately before tanning.
Understanding the Planet Fitness Tanning Policy
The overall Planet Fitness tanning policy is designed to make tanning accessible and affordable for its Black Card members while managing the usage of the equipment. It’s a benefit that adds significant value to the membership, but it comes with responsibilities for the user.
- One Session Per Day: For many Planet Fitness tanning locations, the policy is typically one tanning session per day. This prevents overuse of the beds and ensures that more members have an opportunity to tan.
- No Reservations: You cannot book a time slot for tanning. It’s first-come, first-served. This means during peak times, you might have to wait.
- Guest Policy: Guests of Black Card members do not get to use the tanning facilities unless they also have a Black Card membership. The tanning benefit is tied to the individual member.
Finding Planet Fitness Tanning Locations
Planet Fitness has a vast network of gyms across the United States and internationally. The Planet Fitness tanning availability can vary slightly from one club to another, but most locations that offer tanning will have the standard equipment.
- Website and App: The easiest way to find Planet Fitness tanning locations is to use the Planet Fitness website or their mobile app. You can search for gyms near you and view their amenities. Look for the “Tanning” or “Spray Tan” icons.
- Club Finder: On the Planet Fitness website, there’s usually a “Locations” or “Find a Club” section where you can enter your zip code or city to find nearby gyms. Once you select a club, you can often see a list of available amenities.
- Check Before You Go: While most Black Card memberships grant access to all clubs, it’s always a good idea to verify that a specific club you plan to visit has tanning facilities, especially if you’re traveling.
Maximizing Your Tanning Experience at Planet Fitness
To get the most out of the Planet Fitness tanning options, consider these tips:
- Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water before and after your tanning session, both in the bed and for your skin.
- Exfoliate Regularly: Before using a tanning bed or spray tan booth, exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells. This will help you achieve a more even and longer-lasting tan.
- Moisturize: Keep your skin well-moisturized, especially in the days leading up to and following your tanning session. This helps maintain the tan.
- Use Tanning Lotions: For tanning beds, using lotions specifically designed for tanning beds can enhance your results and protect your skin. These lotions help your skin absorb UV rays more effectively.
- Rinse After Spray Tan: Some spray tans require you to rinse off after a certain period (usually 4-8 hours). Follow the instructions provided by the spray tan booth.
- Protect Sensitive Areas: Use the provided sticky pads or small towels to cover sensitive areas like nipples if desired, especially in spray tan booths.
- Be Patient: Tanning takes time. Don’t expect dramatic results from a single session. Consistent, moderate tanning is key.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planet Fitness Tanning
Here are some common questions people have about tanning at Planet Fitness:
Q1: Do I need a Black Card membership to use the tanning beds?
A1: Yes, you absolutely need a PF Black Card membership to access the tanning beds and spray tan booths. Basic members do not have this privilege.
Q2: Can I bring a guest to use the tanning facilities?
A2: No, your guest can only use the tanning facilities if they are also a PF Black Card member. The tanning benefit is for the individual member only.
Q3: Are tanning beds available 24/7 at Planet Fitness?
A3: While many Planet Fitness locations are open 24/7, the tanning beds and spray tan booths usually have their own specific operating hours, which are often shorter than the gym’s main hours. Always check the specific hours for your local club.
Q4: What types of tanning options does Planet Fitness offer?
A4: Planet Fitness typically offers tanning beds (often Level 1) and automated spray tan booths (like Mystic Tan).
Q5: Can I pay for tanning sessions without a Black Card membership?
A5: No, Planet Fitness does not offer pay-per-use tanning for members without a Black Card. Tanning is an exclusive benefit of the premium membership.
Q6: Is there a limit to how often I can use the tanning beds?
A6: Yes, most Planet Fitness locations enforce a limit of one tanning session per day to ensure fair access and equipment longevity.
Q7: What should I bring for tanning?
A7: You should bring protective eyewear (though often provided), a towel, and possibly tanning lotions approved for bed use. For spray tans, wear loose, dark clothing to wear afterward.
Q8: Can I tan if I have a sunburn?
A8: It is not recommended to tan if you have a sunburn. Allow your skin to heal completely before exposing it to UV rays or spray tanning solutions.
Q9: How do I find out if my local Planet Fitness has tanning facilities?
A9: You can check the Planet Fitness website, use their mobile app, or call your local club directly to confirm the amenities offered at that specific location.
In conclusion, while you cannot tan anytime at Planet Fitness in the sense of unrestricted access regardless of membership, if you are a PF Black Card member, you have excellent Planet Fitness tanning availability during their designated tanning hours. The Planet Fitness tanning cost is effectively built into your membership, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option for those who enjoy tanning. Always familiarize yourself with the specific Planet Fitness tanning rules and Planet Fitness tanning policy at your local club to ensure a safe and satisfying experience.