Planet Fitness Pay: 6 Shocking Facts You Need to Know About Salaries!
If you’re wondering how much Planet Fitness pays its employees, you’re not alone. Whether you’re considering applying for a job at the gym or are simply curious, you’ll be surprised by some of the facts about Planet Fitness salaries. In this blog, we’re breaking it down, from pay rates to benefits and more.
Here are 6 surprising facts you need to know about how much Planet Fitness pays its staff!
1. Hourly Pay Varies by Role
At Planet Fitness, your role largely determines your paycheck. Most of their entry-level positions, such as front desk associates, tend to make between $10 and $13 per hour, depending on the location. Personal trainers, on the other hand, can earn up to $20 per hour, especially in larger markets.
The hourly wage varies based on the state and the specific Planet Fitness franchise, so check the local rates if you’re curious about a specific gym location.
2. Management Positions Offer Higher Salaries
While the front desk staff might start at minimum wage, management positions are where the bigger bucks come in. Assistant managers typically make around $14 to $16 per hour, while general managers can earn anywhere from $35,000 to $60,000 annually.
The experience, job location, and size of the facility often influence this pay range.
3. Planet Fitness Employees Get Free Gym Memberships
While not a direct cash benefit, one of the perks of working at Planet Fitness is free access to the gym. Employees receive complimentary gym memberships, so if you love staying active, this could be a huge bonus.
Imagine getting paid and staying fit for free—it’s a win-win!
4. Most Locations Offer Minimal Benefits
Unfortunately, for entry-level employees, benefits at Planet Fitness can be somewhat limited. Many part-time workers don’t receive health insurance or paid time off. However, full-time staff and management positions generally come with health benefits, paid vacations, and retirement plans, depending on the franchise.
If benefits are a dealbreaker for you, make sure to inquire during the interview process, as packages vary widely between locations.
5. Bonuses Can Boost Paychecks
Depending on the franchise and role, some Planet Fitness employees, especially managers, may have the opportunity to earn bonuses. These can be based on sales, new member sign-ups, or overall gym performance.
For general managers, performance bonuses could range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand annually, making it a nice salary booster.
6. Growth Opportunities Lead to Higher Pay
One of the great things about working at Planet Fitness is the opportunity for career growth. Many employees who start at entry-level positions work their way up to management roles over time, leading to significant pay increases.
The company often promotes from within, so if you’re looking to grow your career in fitness, Planet Fitness might be a good long-term option.
7. Planet Fitness Pay vs. Competitors
When comparing Planet Fitness pay to its competitors in the fitness industry, the salaries are generally on par with similar positions at other large gym chains. For example, front desk associates at LA Fitness and Gold’s Gym make around $10 to $12 per hour, which is comparable to Planet Fitness. However, Equinox and Lifetime Fitness, which are considered more premium gyms, tend to offer slightly higher wages for similar roles.
For personal trainers, the salary at Planet Fitness may be on the lower end compared to gyms that focus more on personal training services, like Crunch Fitness. But for those looking for entry-level fitness industry experience, Planet Fitness offers a solid starting point.
8. Wages Depend on Location
Where you work plays a significant role in how much you’ll earn at Planet Fitness. Gyms located in urban areas or high-cost-of-living regions such as New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco tend to pay higher wages to match the local cost of living. In contrast, employees at rural or suburban locations may find the pay to be on the lower end.
It’s also important to note that many Planet Fitness gyms operate as franchises, meaning individual owners have control over the pay rates, benefits, and bonuses. This can result in different pay scales depending on which franchise you work for, even if it’s the same company brand.
9. Planet Fitness Prioritizes Work-Life Balance
Another aspect of working at Planet Fitness that can be appealing is the work-life balance. Many employees, especially those in part-time positions, appreciate the flexible schedules that can fit around other commitments like school or family. While the pay might not be the highest, the flexibility of shifts and the casual work environment make it an attractive option for many workers.
Additionally, employees report that Planet Fitness tends to have a laid-back, friendly atmosphere compared to some of the more high-pressure gyms in the industry. This relaxed environment could be a trade-off for lower wages, especially if you’re looking for a stress-free job in a fitness environment.
10. Is Planet Fitness Worth Working At?
So, is Planet Fitness the right place for you? If you’re seeking a job that offers flexibility, free gym access, and the potential for career advancement, it could be. For those who are more concerned about high wages or comprehensive benefits right out of the gate, it may not be the best fit.
However, for fitness enthusiasts who enjoy helping others achieve their health goals and don’t mind starting at a lower pay scale, Planet Fitness can be a stepping stone to bigger opportunities in the fitness industry.
11. Employee Reviews: What Do Planet Fitness Workers Say?
To get a well-rounded perspective on Planet Fitness pay, it’s essential to look at what current and former employees have to say. Reviews on sites like Glassdoor and Indeed often mention that while the pay isn’t always the highest, employees appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to gain experience in the fitness industry.
Some workers mention that promotions and raises can be slow, depending on the franchise owner, but that the free gym membership is a nice perk. Others praise the company for being flexible with schedules, especially for those balancing school or other jobs. However, employees in higher-cost areas sometimes feel the pay doesn’t fully align with the cost of living.
Overall, the consensus is that while Planet Fitness may not offer top-tier wages, it’s a solid option for those seeking a balance between work and life, especially if you’re passionate about fitness and want to build experience in the industry.
12. How to Negotiate Your Pay at Planet Fitness
If you’ve landed a job offer at Planet Fitness and feel the pay is lower than expected, there are ways to negotiate a better salary. Here are a few tips:
- Research Local Rates: Find out what similar positions in your area are paying. If you can show that competitors are offering higher wages for the same role, you’ll have leverage in your negotiations.
- Emphasize Your Skills: Highlight any relevant skills or experience that make you an asset to the gym. Whether it’s prior customer service experience or personal training certification, proving your value can help justify a higher pay rate.
- Negotiate Benefits: If the base pay is non-negotiable, consider asking for better benefits, such as more paid time off, flexible hours, or a higher bonus structure.
Remember, each Planet Fitness location operates independently, so negotiations may vary depending on the franchise owner.
13. Are There Bonuses and Other Perks?
One thing that can enhance your overall compensation at Planet Fitness is the availability of bonuses. Some locations offer performance-based bonuses for employees who hit certain membership or sales goals. This could be a nice supplement to the hourly wage and add to your overall income.
In addition to bonuses, Planet Fitness employees receive other perks, like a free Black Card membership, which includes access to all Planet Fitness locations and perks like free tanning, massage chairs, and more. For fitness enthusiasts, this can be a major benefit, helping to offset the sometimes lower hourly pay.
14. Career Advancement Opportunities at Planet Fitness
For those looking to grow within the company, Planet Fitness offers several pathways for advancement. Many employees start as front desk associates and work their way up to management roles like assistant manager or general manager. While the starting pay may not be high, management roles offer a more competitive salary and come with additional benefits like health insurance, paid vacation, and retirement plans.
If you’re interested in personal training, you can also transition to a role as a certified personal trainer, which can come with a higher hourly rate depending on your qualifications and experience.
Final Takeaway: Is Planet Fitness Pay Right for You?
In conclusion, Planet Fitness offers a friendly and flexible work environment, making it an appealing option for fitness enthusiasts looking to gain experience in the industry. While the pay might not be as high as other gyms, the career growth opportunities, free gym membership, and laid-back atmosphere make it an attractive choice for many.
If you’re passionate about fitness and looking for a job that offers work-life balance, Planet Fitness could be a great fit. However, if you’re primarily focused on earning a higher wage right away, you may want to consider looking at other fitness chains or roles within the industry.
Are you ready to apply? If you’re considering a job at Planet Fitness, be sure to do your research, negotiate your pay, and see if the perks and benefits align with your personal and professional goals.
Good luck!
