Why Isn’t Planet Fitness Open 24 Hours Anymore? The Real Story

The simple answer? The pervasive changes in consumer behavior and operational realities brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. While some locations have returned to 24/7 operations, the vast majority of Planet Fitness gyms have not fully reinstated their pre-pandemic hours, prioritizing cost savings and adapting to a “new normal.”

The Pandemic Pivot: A Seismic Shift in Gym Operations

Before 2020, 24/7 access was a cornerstone of Planet Fitness’s appeal. It catered to shift workers, night owls, and anyone with an unconventional schedule. The pandemic, however, threw a wrench into this model. Mandatory shutdowns forced gyms to close, and when they reopened, numerous factors made a full return to 24/7 operations impractical and, in many cases, unsustainable.

Reduced Demand: The Rise of Home Workouts

One of the most significant shifts was the decrease in demand for late-night and early-morning gym access. With many people working from home, the flexibility to exercise at any time of day increased. This led to a decline in gym usage during traditionally off-peak hours, making it difficult to justify the expense of keeping facilities open 24/7. People invested in home gyms or found other alternative fitness solutions, which further diluted the demand for the midnight-to-dawn crowd.

Staffing Shortages: A Nationwide Challenge

Another crucial factor was the nationwide labor shortage. Finding and retaining staff willing to work overnight shifts became increasingly difficult. Increased wages, signing bonuses, and other incentives were necessary to attract employees, significantly increasing operating costs, making it difficult to sustain a 24-hour operation.

Enhanced Cleaning Protocols: Prioritizing Hygiene

The pandemic also brought about heightened awareness of hygiene. Increased cleaning and sanitization protocols became essential to reassure members and maintain a safe environment. These protocols required additional staff and time, making it difficult to integrate seamlessly into a 24/7 schedule, particularly with reduced staffing levels.

Cost Considerations: Bottom Line Realities

Ultimately, the decision to reduce operating hours boils down to cost. Running a gym 24/7 incurs significant expenses, including utilities, staffing, and maintenance. With reduced demand and increased operating costs, many Planet Fitness locations found that 24/7 operations were no longer financially viable. Franchisees, who own the vast majority of Planet Fitness locations, have the autonomy to adjust their hours based on local market conditions and profitability.

The Fragmented Return: A Location-by-Location Decision

It’s important to note that the decision to reinstate 24/7 hours is not uniform across the entire Planet Fitness chain. Individual franchisees are empowered to make decisions based on their specific market conditions and member needs. Some locations in areas with high demand for late-night access have indeed resumed 24/7 operations, while others have opted for reduced hours to optimize profitability. The best way to confirm the operating hours of a specific Planet Fitness location is to check its website, use the Planet Fitness mobile app, or contact the gym directly.

Beyond the Pandemic: Long-Term Strategies

While the pandemic undoubtedly triggered the shift away from 24/7 operations, it’s also prompted Planet Fitness to re-evaluate its long-term strategies. The company is exploring ways to enhance its offerings and attract new members, including expanded class schedules during peak hours, upgraded equipment, and improved digital experiences. They’re also likely collecting data on gym usage patterns to inform future decisions about operating hours. It’s a calculated gamble that could eventually see a return to a more consistent 24/7 model in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 12 frequently asked questions about Planet Fitness’s operating hours:

1. Will all Planet Fitness locations ever go back to being open 24 hours?

It’s unlikely that all Planet Fitness locations will return to 24/7 operations. The decision rests with individual franchisees and depends on local market conditions, demand, and profitability. While some may revert, others may permanently adopt reduced hours.

2. How can I find out the specific hours of my local Planet Fitness?

The most reliable methods are to: check the Planet Fitness website, use the Planet Fitness mobile app, or call the gym directly.

3. Does my Planet Fitness Black Card membership still give me access to any Planet Fitness anytime?

No. The Black Card membership allows you to visit any Planet Fitness location, but it doesn’t guarantee 24/7 access. Access is still subject to the operating hours of the specific gym you are visiting.

4. Why do some Planet Fitness locations have different hours than others?

Because the vast majority of Planet Fitness locations are owned and operated by individual franchisees, each has the autonomy to set its own operating hours based on local factors such as demand, staffing availability, and profitability.

5. Is Planet Fitness planning to offer more classes or programs to compensate for reduced hours?

Planet Fitness is actively exploring ways to enhance its offerings, which could include expanded class schedules during peak hours, upgraded equipment, and improved digital experiences to better serve members. Check with your local gym for specific class schedules.

6. What factors influence a Planet Fitness franchisee’s decision to change operating hours?

Several factors influence a franchisee’s decision, including local demand for late-night/early-morning access, staffing availability, operating costs, and the overall profitability of maintaining 24/7 operations.

7. Are there any benefits to Planet Fitness reducing its hours?

While it might seem counterintuitive, reduced hours can allow for more efficient cleaning and maintenance, potentially leading to a better gym experience during open hours. It also helps ensure profitability so the business can remain open.

8. Will Planet Fitness memberships be discounted if gyms aren’t open 24/7?

Generally, membership prices remain the same regardless of whether a particular location offers 24/7 access. Planet Fitness’s value proposition extends beyond just operating hours, encompassing affordable pricing, a judgment-free environment, and a range of equipment and amenities.

9. What is the future of the 24/7 gym model in general?

The future of the 24/7 gym model is uncertain. The rise of home workouts and flexible work schedules may lead to a permanent shift in demand for late-night gym access. However, some gyms may find success catering to specific niches, such as shift workers or athletes with unconventional training schedules.

10. Is Planet Fitness offering any alternative solutions for members who previously relied on 24/7 access?

While not always feasible, some Planet Fitness locations may offer extended hours during peak periods or explore alternative class schedules to accommodate members who previously utilized 24/7 access.

11. How can I provide feedback to Planet Fitness about their operating hours?

You can provide feedback to Planet Fitness through their website, mobile app, or by contacting your local gym directly. Your feedback can help franchisees make informed decisions about operating hours.

12. Are other gym chains also moving away from 24/7 operations?

Yes, many other gym chains are also re-evaluating their operating hours in light of the changes in consumer behavior and economic realities brought on by the pandemic. This is a widespread trend across the fitness industry.