Image Source: www.tiktok.com
How To Turn On Planet Fitness Tanning Bed Step-by-Step
Can you use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness? Yes, Planet Fitness offers tanning beds as part of its Black Card membership. This guide will walk you through precisely how to turn on and use the Planet Fitness tanning bed, covering everything from the initial activation to the correct settings and safety precautions. This is a beginner’s guide to PF tanning, designed to make your indoor tanning at Planet Fitness a smooth and enjoyable experience.
When you join Planet Fitness as a Black Card member, you gain access to various perks, including the use of their tanning equipment. This typically includes both tanning beds and tanning booths. Knowing how to operate the PF tanning bed is key to getting the most out of this membership benefit. This guide is your comprehensive Planet Fitness sunbed guide, detailing PF tanning bed operation for a safe and effective tan.
Getting Ready for Your Tan
Before you even think about turning on the tanning equipment, there are a few essential steps to take. These ensure your safety and help you achieve the best possible results from your indoor tanning at Planet Fitness.
Pre-Tanning Essentials
- Membership Verification: Ensure your Black Card membership is active and current. You’ll typically need to scan your membership card or provide your information at the front desk.
- Tanning Area Access: Locate the designated tanning area. It’s usually separate from the main gym floor for privacy.
- Hygiene and Preparation:
- Cleanliness: Planet Fitness expects members to maintain cleanliness. You should wipe down the tanning bed before and after use with the provided sanitizing wipes. This is crucial for hygiene and maintaining the equipment.
- Remove Jewelry and Accessories: All metal jewelry, watches, and any other accessories that could block UV rays or cause uneven tanning must be removed.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: This is non-negotiable. Always wear the protective eyewear provided or approved by Planet Fitness. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient. Extended UV exposure can damage your eyes.
- Skin Preparation: For the best results, ensure your skin is clean and free of lotions, perfumes, or deodorants. These can interfere with the tanning process and potentially cause skin reactions. Some members prefer to exfoliate before tanning to remove dead skin cells for a more even tan.
Understanding the Different Tanning Options
Planet Fitness typically offers two main types of tanning equipment:
- Tanning Beds: These are enclosed units where you lie down. They usually have bulbs on both the top and bottom.
- Tanning Booths: These are stand-up units. You stand inside a booth, and the UV bulbs surround you.
While the exact operation might have slight variations, the core principles of turning on and setting the PF tanning equipment are similar. This guide focuses on the common tanning bed operation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Turn On a Planet Fitness Tanning Bed
Turning on a Planet Fitness tanning bed is usually a straightforward process, designed for ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of the typical PF tanning bed operation:
Step 1: Enter the Tanning Room
- Once you’ve gathered your essentials (towel, eyewear, membership card), head to the tanning area.
- Most Planet Fitness locations have a sign-up sheet or a system where you can reserve your spot, especially during busy times. Check with the front desk if you’re unsure.
- Enter the private tanning room.
Step 2: Prepare the Tanning Bed
- Wipe Down: Use the provided sanitizing wipes to clean the surfaces of the tanning bed. Pay attention to the areas where your body will make contact.
- Open the Bed: Most tanning beds have an acrylic lid that opens upwards. Gently lift it to expose the interior.
- Position Yourself: Lie down inside the tanning bed. Make sure you are comfortably positioned. Some beds have adjustable headrests.
- Close the Lid: Carefully close the acrylic lid. It should latch securely.
Step 3: Activate the Tanning Bed
This is where the actual “turning on” happens. Planet Fitness tanning bed instructions PF are generally clear within the tanning room itself, but here’s a common method.
- Locate the Control Panel: The control panel is typically located inside the tanning bed, often near your head or by your side.
- Insert Your Membership Card: You’ll usually find a card reader slot. Insert your Planet Fitness Black Card membership card. The bed will read your membership status and, if valid, initiate the activation sequence. This is a key step in how to activate PF tanning.
- Start Button: After inserting your card, look for a “Start,” “On,” or a similar button. Press this button to begin the tanning session.
- Timer Display: A digital display will likely appear, showing the duration of your session. This is usually pre-set based on your membership and the type of bed, or it might have a default setting for beginners.
Step 4: Adjusting Planet Fitness Tanning Bed Settings (If Applicable)
While many Planet Fitness tanning beds are set to a standard session length, some might offer minor adjustments.
- Fan Speed: Some beds have controls for the internal fan, which helps with cooling. You can usually adjust this by pressing buttons labeled “Fan Up” or “Fan Down.”
- Music/Audio: Some older or more advanced models might have basic audio controls. However, this is less common, and most Planet Fitness tanning beds focus solely on the tanning function.
- Session Duration: It’s rare for members to manually adjust the session duration. This is typically controlled by the system that reads your membership card. If you wish to extend or shorten a session, you would need to speak with the front desk staff.
Step 5: The Tanning Process
- UV Bulb Activation: Once you press start, you’ll hear a humming sound as the UV bulbs inside the bed begin to glow and emit UV light.
- Relax and Tan: Lie still and relax. The bed will operate for the pre-determined time.
- Cooling Fan: The internal fan will operate throughout the session to help keep you comfortable.
Step 6: Session End and Exit
- Automatic Shut-off: The tanning bed will automatically shut off once your session time is complete. You’ll usually hear a beep or a change in the sound to indicate the session has ended.
- Open the Lid: Gently lift the acrylic lid.
- Exit the Bed: Carefully stand up and exit the tanning bed.
- Clean Up: Use the provided sanitizing wipes to clean the tanning bed again, especially where you made contact. Dispose of the wipes properly in the designated trash bin.
- Exit the Room: Leave the tanning room and return to the main gym area.
Important Considerations for Using Planet Fitness Tanning Equipment
Using indoor tanning at Planet Fitness is a convenient perk, but safety and responsible use are paramount.
Safety First
- Frequency of Use: It’s crucial to avoid over-tanning. Consult with your doctor or a tanning professional about safe tanning frequencies. Generally, it’s recommended to allow at least 24-48 hours between tanning sessions.
- Skin Type: Planet Fitness tanning equipment, like all tanning beds, emits UV radiation. People with very fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or those who burn easily should exercise extreme caution or avoid indoor tanning altogether. This tanning bed instructions PF guide strongly emphasizes safety.
- Medications: Certain medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV light, leading to burns or rashes. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any medications before using a tanning bed.
- No Hot Tanning Beds: Planet Fitness tanning beds are designed to be cool and comfortable. If you notice the bed is excessively hot, report it to the staff immediately.
Tanning Booth vs. Tanning Bed
While both offer a tan, there are differences in the experience and potential results:
- Tanning Booths:
- Pros: Can provide a more all-over tan with less risk of “white spots” from pressure points. Some find standing more comfortable.
- Cons: Can feel more enclosed for some people.
- Tanning Beds:
- Pros: Allows you to lie down and relax. Top and bottom bulbs can offer a more intense tan if used correctly.
- Cons: You might experience slight “pressure points” where your body contacts the bed, potentially leading to lighter spots if not repositioned.
Choosing between them often comes down to personal preference. The process for turning on either is generally similar: scan your card and press start.
Maximizing Your Tan
- Consistency: For a gradual and even tan, consistent tanning sessions are key.
- Moisturize: After your tanning session, moisturize your skin. This helps keep your skin hydrated and can prolong the life of your tan.
- Exfoliation: As mentioned, exfoliating a day or two before tanning can help remove dead skin cells, leading to a smoother, more even tan. Avoid exfoliating immediately before or after a tanning session.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planet Fitness Tanning
Here are some common questions regarding using the PF tanning equipment:
Q1: Do I need a Black Card membership to use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness?
A1: Yes, access to the tanning beds and booths is a perk exclusively for Black Card members.
Q2: How long is a tanning session at Planet Fitness?
A2: The session length is typically pre-set and managed by the system that reads your membership card. It’s usually around 8-10 minutes, but this can vary slightly. You cannot manually adjust the time on most Planet Fitness tanning beds.
Q3: Can I use tanning lotions from other places?
A3: Planet Fitness strongly recommends using lotions specifically designed for indoor tanning beds, often referred to as “tanning intensifiers” or “accelerators.” These lotions contain ingredients that help your skin achieve a deeper tan and can also moisturize your skin. Avoid using regular sunblock or outdoor tanning lotions in tanning beds, as they are not designed for that purpose and can damage the equipment or your skin. Planet Fitness may sell their own brand of tanning lotions, or you may be permitted to bring your own, provided they are approved for indoor tanning use. Always check the club’s specific policy.
Q4: What if the tanning bed doesn’t turn on after I scan my card?
A4: If the PF tanning bed operation fails after you scan your card, double-check that your card is inserted correctly and that your membership is indeed active. If it still doesn’t work, inform the staff at the front desk. There might be a technical issue with that specific unit.
Q5: Is it safe to use tanning beds at Planet Fitness?
A5: Indoor tanning involves exposure to UV radiation, which carries inherent risks, including premature skin aging and an increased risk of skin cancer. Planet Fitness, like any facility offering indoor tanning, requires members to adhere to safety guidelines, including the use of protective eyewear. It’s crucial to tan responsibly, avoid overexposure, and be aware of your skin’s reaction. Consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
Q6: How often can I use the Planet Fitness tanning bed?
A6: While your membership may allow unlimited access to tanning, it’s generally recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours between sessions to allow your skin to recover and reduce the risk of burning. Listen to your body and avoid tanning if your skin is already red or irritated.
Q7: Are there different strengths of tanning beds at Planet Fitness?
A7: Planet Fitness typically offers one type of tanning bed and one type of tanning booth. They are generally considered “low-pressure” or moderate-intensity tanning equipment. Higher-intensity beds are usually found in dedicated tanning salons.
Q8: Do I need to book a time slot for the tanning bed?
A8: While not always mandatory, it’s a good idea to check with your local Planet Fitness. Some clubs might have a sign-up sheet or a system to manage demand, especially during peak hours.
Q9: What should I wear in the tanning bed?
A9: You can choose what to wear. Many people tan nude for a more even tan without tan lines. However, you can wear a swimsuit or underwear if you prefer. Just remember to remove all jewelry.
Q10: What if I feel dizzy or unwell during a tanning session?
A10: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or unwell at any point during your tanning session, press the stop button (if available) or wait for the automatic shut-off. Exit the bed and inform the staff immediately. It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid tanning if you’re not feeling well.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Tan Responsibly
Turning on a Planet Fitness tanning bed is a simple process when you follow these steps. From ensuring your Black Card membership is active to properly preparing yourself and the equipment, each step contributes to a safe and effective indoor tanning experience. Remember that responsible use is key. Pay attention to your skin’s response, follow recommended frequencies, and always prioritize your health by using protective eyewear and being aware of any medications you’re taking. With this comprehensive guide to PF tanning bed operation and this beginner’s guide to PF tanning, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the benefits of indoor tanning at Planet Fitness. Happy tanning!