Choosing a gym can be tough, especially when comparing two of the biggest names. Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness is a decision many people face, but the right answer depends on your goals. This guide looks at memberships, equipment, culture, and reviews to help you pick the gym that matches your needs.Choosing between Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness isn’t just about price. Both gyms serve different audiences, and the right fit depends on your goals. This article compares Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness memberships, facilities, and reviews to help you decide.
Table of Contents
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness Overview
What Makes Planet Fitness Stand Out?
Planet Fitness is designed for beginners and casual gym-goers. With low-cost memberships and a “Judgment Free Zone” atmosphere, it focuses on creating a comfortable space. While its equipment is limited, many appreciate the simplicity of a Planet Fitness membership.
Why LA Fitness Appeals to Many
LA Fitness, by contrast, offers a full-service experience. Members gain access to pools, basketball courts, racquetball, group classes, and heavy lifting areas. In a gym comparison, LA Fitness feels more complete, attracting a wide range of users from families to serious lifters.
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness Cost Comparison
Planet Fitness Membership Options
A key part of the Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness cost discussion is affordability.
- Classic Plan: $10/month, one location access
- Black Card Plan: $24.99/month, includes all locations, massage chairs, tanning, and guest privileges
This makes a planet fitness membership one of the cheapest options in the U.S.
LA Fitness Membership Cost
Comparing LA Fitness membership cost vs Planet Fitness, LA runs higher:
- Monthly Rate: $30–$60/month
- Initiation Fees: $50–$100 upfront
- Family Add-Ons: Discounted multi-member options
While pricier, LA Fitness includes pools, racquetball, and more advanced weight training gear.
Equipment and Facilities in Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness
What You Get at Planet Fitness
In a gym comparison, Planet Fitness emphasizes cardio and light resistance training. Equipment includes treadmills, ellipticals, and dumbbells usually capped at 75 lbs. Heavy lifting tools like squat racks or Olympic benches are absent.
What LA Fitness Provides
LA Fitness excels in equipment variety. With squat racks, barbells, dumbbells up to 120 lbs, swimming pools, and saunas, it suits lifters and athletes who want a more complete environment.
Locations and Accessibility – Planet Fitness / LA Fitness
Planet Fitness Near Me
With over 2,400 gyms, Planet Fitness is one of the most widespread chains in the U.S. Many locations operate 24/7. Searching “planet fitness near me” usually brings several options within a short drive.
LA Fitness Near Me
LA Fitness runs about 700 locations. While not as common as Planet Fitness, each gym tends to be larger and more full-service. A quick “LA Fitness near me” search often reveals facilities with pools, courts, and a broader class schedule.
Community and Culture in Planet Fitness / LA Fitness
Inside Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is known for its non-intimidating environment. Features like the “lunk alarm” discourage loud lifting or dropping weights. This makes it popular among beginners, though some advanced lifters feel restricted.
Inside LA Fitness
LA Fitness offers a more traditional gym culture. Members include athletes, bodybuilders, and families. Group fitness classes and basketball courts create community energy, while strength training areas attract dedicated lifters.
Member Reviews
Planet Fitness Reviews
Feedback often highlights affordability and accessibility. However, many Planet Fitness reviews note crowded peak hours and limited lifting options. On Reddit, members often say Planet Fitness is ideal for beginners but not suited for heavy strength training.
LA Fitness Reviews
In LA Fitness reviews, positives include extensive equipment, pools, and group classes. Common complaints focus on higher costs and customer service inconsistencies. Serious lifters, however, usually consider LA Fitness a better long-term option.
City-Specific Planet Fitness / LA Fitness
LA Fitness vs Planet Fitness Chicago
Chicago gym-goers often weigh Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness by convenience. PF has more locations, but LA Fitness facilities include courts and pools. Beginners lean Planet Fitness, while athletes prefer LA.
LA Fitness vs YMCA
Another gym comparison is LA Fitness vs YMCA. YMCA brings child care and community programs, while LA Fitness focuses on fitness amenities. (See Lifetime Fitness vs YMCA).
Alternatives to Planet Fitness / LA Fitness
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness vs Anytime Fitness
In the Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness vs Anytime Fitness comparison, Anytime provides 24/7 access with squat racks and barbells. It balances between PF’s affordability and LA’s full-service setup. (See Anytime Fitness vs Gold’s Gym).
Other Comparisons Worth Checking
If Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness doesn’t suit you, explore:
- Retro Fitness vs Planet Fitness
- Snap Fitness vs Anytime Fitness
- Edge Fitness vs Crunch Fitness
- YMCA vs Gold’s Gym
Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness
At the end of the day, the Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness decision depends on your fitness style:
- Budget + beginner = Planet Fitness
- Full-service + serious training = LA Fitness
Trying both with a day pass is the smartest way to make your Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness choice.
FAQs
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness Reddit – what do real members say?
On Reddit, people often compare the two gyms, noting Planet Fitness works for beginners while LA Fitness suits lifters.
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness Cost – which is cheaper?
In Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness cost, PF wins with $10–25/month compared to LA’s $30–60 plus fees.
Planet Fitness vs LA Fitness vs Anytime Fitness – which is better?
Planet Fitness = cheapest and beginner-friendly.
LA Fitness = best for full-service training.
Anytime = flexible 24/7 lifting access.
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