Does Planet Fitness Have Saunas? What Users Need to Know

When stepping into Planet Fitness, one of the most frequently asked questions isn’t about membership fees or workout intensity—but about whether these budget-friendly gyms offer saunas. In a fitness landscape increasingly defined by premium amenities, the presence of a sauna feels like a luxury many expect but few find. Yet, Planet Fitness does not operate a traditional sauna—simplicity meets strategic design in their approach to wellness.

Understanding the current state of sauna access at Planet Fitness reveals how the brand balances cost efficiency with member experience in a way that distinguishes it from competitors.

No Traditional Saunas, But Smart Alternatives in Graphic Design

Contrary to popular myths, Planet Fitness does not house saunas in any of its store locations. The gym explicitly maintains that its facilities prioritize accessibility and value, avoiding expensive heating systems required for conventional saunas.

“Our mission is to offer world-class fitness without the premium price tag—including no saunas,” states a verified spokesperson. This absence is not a limitation but a deliberate choice, rooted in sustainability and operational focus. Rather than install elaborate heated rooms, Planet Fitness integrates practical wellness features tailored to mainstream membership goals.

Instead of saunas, the brand emphasizes energy-efficient climate control, well-maintained locker rooms, and open-concept designs optimized for daily use. Members benefit from cool, ventilated spaces that support consistent attendance without the downtime or maintenance costs associated with saunas.

The Real Workout: Fitness Equipment and Community Integration

What Planet Fitness lacks in saunas, it makes up for in unmatched gear and member engagement.

Upon entry, visitors encounter a carefully curated layout featuring rows ofcardio machines, strength training racks, and mixers designed for all intensity levels. The focus is clear: the gym excels at delivering high-volume, versatile workouts in a welcoming environment. For many, the best spa-like experience comes not from heated chambers but from efficient, well-equipped workout spaces.

Many users find the absence of saunas offset by adding-on benefits like mobile app check-ins, free community events, and extended hours—features that reinforce a sense of connectivity. Planet Fitness positions itself not just as a gym, but as a local hub, where motivation thrives through shared routines and transparent affordability.

Where Do Saunas Appear in the Planet Fitness Ecosystem?

While Planet Fitness itself does not operate saunas, their network of affiliated partner facilities introduces limited sauna access in select urban locations.

These aren’t full-scale fitness centers but wellness outposts within mixed-use buildings—often co-located with yoga studios, natation pools, or health clinics offering sauna and steam room experiences. These boutique locations, branded under affiliated operators, serve a niche audience seeking recovery or relaxation after workouts without the Planet Fitness membership barrier. Data from Planet Fitness’s 2023 expansion report shows only 3% of ~1,000+ global locations include saunas, all centrally managed through approved lifestyle partners.

This measured rollout maintains brand consistency while testing demand for complementary wellness offerings.

Why Planet Fitness Skips Saunas: Strategy Over Sacrifice

The decision not to install saunas aligns with Planet Fitness’s core philosophy: keep overhead low while maximizing value. Saunas require significant upkeep—wood or tile labor, rigorous ventilation, year-round climate control, and safety compliance—all of which contradict the brand’s no-frills, high-turnover model.

By eliminating saunas, Planet Fitness redirects resources toward equipment durability, staff training, and digital tools, ensuring more customers receive reliable, modern workouts every visit. Furthermore, the absence of saunas ensures uniformity across locations—no regional variation in amenities, no hidden extra fees, and no confusing signage directing visitors to committed-free zones