Planet Fitness Study Finds Fear Of Judgement Prompts Majority Of Americans (nearly Two Thirds) To Try To Get In Shape Before Ever Stepping Foot Into A Gym

HAMPTON, N.H., April 2, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Planet Fitness, Inc., one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the U.S., reveals that fear of judgement directly impacts Americans’ confidence to pursue a healthy lifestyle. A national study* commissioned by Planet Fitness uncovers that 62 percent of Americans (nearly two thirds) have attempted to get into shape before ever stepping foot into a gym, noting that fear of being judged keeps them away from fitness facilities altogether (45 percent).

When it comes to heading to the gym, 42 percent noted they feel specifically judged for their body type while working out. In fact, just during this past year alone, millions of Americans admitted that they have been talked about behind their back (16 million), pointed or laughed at (11 million) or even insulted to their face (10 million) inside a gym. And interestingly, more than half (54 percent) would do something to make sure they had an area of their gym that was completely free from judgement, a sentiment that has risen considerably since 2017 (47 percent).

Fortunately, that space exists. Planet Fitness invites everyone to join the Judgement Free Zone®, a safe and encouraging place where people can feel comfortable and not intimidated, for just 25 cents down (enrollment fee), and then $10 a month with no commitment. The promotion runs through April 10 at any of its more than 1,700 clubs throughout the United States.

“There’s no need for anyone to feel like they need to get in shape before joining a gym,” said Roger Chacko, Chief Commercial Officer at Planet Fitness. “At Planet Fitness, our priority is making our members feel welcome and comfortable no matter what – regardless of their size, shape or fitness level. It’s less about working out to the max every day of the week and more about feeling good about what you do at your own pace. In fact, based on new national physical activity guidelines**, people can significantly improve their health just by moving. All activity counts.”

Planet Fitness offers extremely low prices and a variety of benefits, including a hassle-free environment, brand name cardio and strength equipment, fully equipped locker rooms, flat screen televisions and much more. The Planet Fitness Black Card®*** membership for $21.99 a month includes additional perks such as access to any club at no additional charge, the ability to bring a guest anytime, and additional amenities like unlimited use of massage chairs, HydroMassage beds, and more.

Planet Fitness also provides members with an opportunity to connect and support each other with “Planet of Triumphs,” an online community that celebrates all accomplishments and inspirational stories of Planet Fitness members. Planet of Triumphs provides an online platform for members to recognize their triumphs (big or small), share their stories and encourage others, reinforcing the Company’s belief that ‘everyone belongs’. Check out real Planet Fitness member stories and accomplishments at PlanetofTriumphs.com.

To locate the nearest Planet Fitness club and take advantage of this limited time offer for new members, please visit PlanetFitness.com/Local-Clubs.

*Online survey conducted by Kelton Global to 2,217 nationally representative Americans ages 18 and over, with a margin of error of +/- 2.1 percent.

**U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (2018, November 18). HHS Releases Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition. Retrieved from https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2018/11/12/hhs-releases-physical-activity-guidelines-americans-2nd-edition.html

***Black Card membership fees and amenities may vary by location.

About Planet Fitness
Founded in 1992 in Dover, NH, Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States by number of members and locations. As of December 31, 2018, Planet Fitness had more than 12.5 million members and 1,742 stores in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, the Dominican Republic, Panama and Mexico. The Company’s mission is to enhance people’s lives by providing a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment, which we call the Judgement Free Zone®. More than 95% of Planet Fitness stores are owned and operated by independent business men and women.

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SOURCE Planet Fitness, Inc.