Planet Fitness and Blink Fitness are two of America’s most popular affordable gyms—but which one is right for you ? If you want to maximize value, equipment, and your workout experience, it’s essential to know their key differences. This quick guide covers the pros, cons, membership options, and real costs for both gyms. Whether you’re a beginner or a committed lifter, this comparison makes your choice simple and stress-free.
In this review, we’ll look at up-to-date pricing, amenities, rules, equipment, cancellation policies, and expert tips—plus official resource links and answers to your top questions.
Membership Cost & Plan Options: Which Gym Gives You More for Your Money?
Planet Fitness
- Classic Membership: Now $15/month for new members (up from $10), plus a $49 annual fee. Existing members keep their old rate (Business Insider, 2024).
- Black Card: $24.99/month (12-month contract), includes national access, spa perks, and more.
- No hidden sign-up fees for many locations, but always check your local gym.
- Official pricing and details
Blink Fitness
- Gray Plan: From $15/month (single location, month-to-month), plus ~$55 annual maintenance fee.
- Blue Plan: $23/month (multi-location, 12-month commitment).
- Green Plan: $27/month (all locations, best perks).
- Sign-up fee: Usually $49–$99.
- Official pricing and plans
Summary:
Planet Fitness still offers the lowest monthly price for basic membership, but Blink’s plans are flexible and let you access more locations for a bit more per month.
Equipment & Workout Experience: Strength, Cardio, and More
Planet Fitness
- Focus on cardio machines and selectorized strength machines.
- Dumbbells up to 75 lbs. No barbells, squat racks, or Olympic platforms.
- No heavy lifting, chalk, or loud grunting allowed (Lunk Alarm policy).
- Great for beginners, casual users, and people who want a relaxed atmosphere.
Blink Fitness
- Full range of cardio and strength equipment.
- Dumbbells up to 90 lbs, barbells, benches, squat racks, and more.
- Functional training area with kettlebells, ropes, and turf (at many locations).
- Allows chalk, moderate weight dropping, and a more “serious lifter” vibe.
Summary:
If you want to powerlift or use free weights, Blink is the clear winner. Planet Fitness is better for light training and general fitness.
Gym Rules & Atmosphere: Policies, Culture, and Comfort
Planet Fitness
- Marketed as the “Judgement Free Zone.”
- Strict rules: No loud noises, no revealing clothes, no chalk, no heavy weight dropping.
- The famous “Lunk Alarm” deters disruptive behavior.
- Supportive for newcomers but sometimes too restrictive for advanced users.
- Read their Member Policy
Blink Fitness
- More relaxed policies: Chalk and moderate noise allowed, lifting barefoot (with socks) OK.
- Welcoming staff and positive environment.
- Typically less crowded than Planet Fitness, but peak hours can vary.
- Blink Fitness FAQs
Summary:
Choose Planet for a quiet, strictly managed gym; pick Blink for a more flexible, upbeat environment.
Amenities & Extras: Perks, Classes, and Convenience
Planet Fitness
- Black Card members get tanning, massage chairs, hydromassage, red light therapy, and 50% off drinks.
- Showers and locker rooms at all locations.
- Free “PE@PF” group fitness sessions for all members (small group, circuit style).
- No childcare or pools.
- Full amenity list
Blink Fitness
- Clean showers and lockers; towel service at some locations.
- No spa perks, tanning, or saunas.
- Virtual classes and workout programs via Blink App (Blue and Green members).
- Personal training available (for extra fee).
- View available amenities
Summary:
Planet Fitness stands out for Black Card perks. Blink is focused on fitness basics—no frills, but all the essentials.
Contracts & Cancellation: Fees and Flexibility
Planet Fitness
- Classic: Cancel anytime with 30 days’ notice. No long-term contract.
- Black Card: 12-month contract, ~$58 early termination fee.
- Easy cancellation process, but must visit club in person or send a certified letter.
- Cancellation policy
Blink Fitness
- Gray: Month-to-month, 45-day cancellation notice.
- Blue/Green: Annual contract, $50–$60 cancellation fee if ending early.
- Can cancel online or in club (varies by location).
- Cancellation info
Summary:
Both offer flexible options, but Planet Fitness makes it a bit easier to cancel on the basic plan.
Real-World Feedback: What Members Say
- Many Reddit users note Blink’s better strength equipment and less restrictive vibe (Reddit).
- Planet Fitness praised for clean, safe spaces, but criticized for lack of lifting options and the Lunk Alarm.
- Both chains get high marks for value and convenience.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Planet Fitness | Blink Fitness |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $15–$24.99/month | $15–$27/month + fees |
| Equipment | Machines, 75lb DBs | Free weights, racks |
| Perks | Spa, classes (BC) | Virtual classes |
| Policies | Strict, quiet | Flexible, upbeat |
| Cancellation | Easiest on Classic | 45 days notice |
Conclusion
Planet Fitness is best for budget-seekers and beginners who want a clean, safe, low-pressure gym with extra perks (on the Black Card). Blink Fitness is perfect for anyone serious about strength training, wanting less restrictive policies, or preferring a simple gym that covers all the basics.
Check your nearest locations for current deals, and always ask for a free tour before joining! Ready to take your next step? Visit Planet Fitness or Blink Fitness today and find your perfect workout match.