What is Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is the largest fitness chain in the United States, with over 2,600 locations worldwide and counting. The company built its empire on one revolutionary concept: making gym membership affordable and accessible to everyone. Their “Judgement Free Zone” philosophy specifically targets people who feel intimidated by traditional gym environments, and their pricing structure removes financial barriers that keep many people from exercising regularly.
What makes Planet Fitness unique is their commitment to accessibility. At just $15/month for a Classic membership (or $24.99 for Black Card), they’ve made consistent exercise financially possible for almost anyone. Every location provides cardio equipment, strength machines, free weights, and 30-minute circuit training areas. Black Card members unlock additional perks like nationwide access to all 2,600+ clubs, HydroMassage beds, massage chairs, tanning, and the ability to bring a guest anytime.
This isn’t just about having an affordable place to work out. The CDC reports that regular physical activity can prevent an estimated 110,000 deaths per year among U.S. adults and reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and eight types of cancer. A 2024 meta-analysis published in the British Medical Journal analyzed 218 randomized controlled trials and found that exercise is an effective treatment for depression, with walking and jogging showing particularly strong effects. An accessible, judgment-free gym removes the barriers that prevent millions of Americans from getting the physical activity they need.
Why Planet Fitness Qualifies for HSA/FSA
According to IRS regulations, gym memberships can qualify as eligible medical expenses with a Letter of Medical Necessity under specific circumstances outlined in Publication 502.
IRS Publication 502 states that medical expenses are “the costs of diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and for the purpose of affecting any part or function of the body,” but “must be primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental condition or illness.”
Research published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation found that meeting physical activity guidelines is associated with a 14% reduced risk of coronary heart disease and approximately 40% reduction in cardiovascular disease mortality. With over 40% of American adults having obesity according to the CDC, affordable gym access represents a clinically meaningful intervention for a significant portion of the population.
This means Planet Fitness membership can qualify for HSA/FSA reimbursement for prevention or treatment of:
- Obesity and weight management disorders
- Cardiovascular disease and hypertension
- Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- Chronic back pain and musculoskeletal conditions
- Arthritis and joint disorders
- Osteoporosis and bone density issues
- Metabolic syndrome
The key requirement is that your healthcare provider must document the gym membership as medically necessary for managing your specific health condition, not just for general wellness. This documentation comes in the form of a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
How to Assess Your Eligibility
Traditional Route: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician, discuss your health conditions and fitness goals, and request a Letter of Medical Necessity if exercise is recommended as part of your treatment plan. This typically requires an office visit, potential wait times, and can cost $50-100+ depending on your insurance.
Faster, Smarter Route: Use Crates Health to get your Letter of Medical Necessity online in just a few minutes. Our platform connects you with licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate your conditions remotely and issue the appropriate documentation if you qualify. No office visits, no waiting weeks for appointments, and no surprise medical bills.
Planet Fitness Membership Options and Pricing
Planet Fitness keeps things simple with two membership tiers. Here’s what you can expect to pay and potentially reimburse through your HSA/FSA:
| Membership Tier | Monthly Cost | Access Level | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | $15/month | Single club only | Cardio and strength equipment, free fitness training, 30-min circuit |
| Black Card | $24.99/month | All 2,600+ locations | All Classic amenities + HydroMassage, massage chairs, tanning, guest privileges, 50% off drinks |
Additional Fees to Know About:
- Startup Fee: $1 (often waived during promotions)
- Annual Fee: $49 (billed 6-8 weeks after enrollment, then annually)
- Note: Black Card increasing to $29.99/month after 2026 for new members
If you signed up for a Classic membership before mid-2024 at the original $10/month rate, you’re grandfathered in at that price. New members pay the updated $15/month rate. All of these costs can potentially be reimbursed through your HSA/FSA with proper documentation.
What Makes Black Card Worth It
The Black Card membership costs about $10 more per month than Classic, but the added benefits can make it worthwhile:
- Nationwide Access: Use any of the 2,600+ Planet Fitness locations across the country
- HydroMassage: Unlimited access to water-based massage beds for recovery
- Massage Chairs: Relax after workouts in full-body massage chairs
- Tanning: Access to UV tanning equipment
- Guest Privileges: Bring a friend to work out with you anytime at no extra cost
- Cooler Drinks: 50% off select drinks and beverages
Free Teen Summer Pass
Planet Fitness offers a High School Summer Pass program that allows teens ages 14-19 to work out for free during the summer months (typically June through August). This is a great way to establish healthy exercise habits early.
