Does Planet Fitness Have Classes?

One of the most common questions from prospective and current members is does Planet Fitness have classes?

The short answer is yes, but the format is different from what you might find at other gyms.

Planet Fitness offers group fitness instruction through a program it calls PE@PF, which is included with certain membership tiers at no extra cost.

Key Highlights

Planet Fitness does offer fitness classes through its PE@PF program, but only for Classic Card and PF Black Card members.
Classes are led by certified trainers and cover strength training, stretching, and cardio in small group formats.
The class structure is more beginner-friendly and less intense than what you’d find at boutique studios or larger traditional gyms.

What Is the PE@PF Program?

PE@PF stands for “Physical Education at Planet Fitness.”

PE@PF

It’s the gym’s version of group fitness classes, designed to be approachable for people of all fitness levels. The program includes small group training sessions led by a certified trainer on the gym floor.

These sessions are not held in a separate studio or classroom like you might see at gyms such as 24-Hour Fitness or Lifetime. Instead, they take place right on the main workout floor using the equipment already available. Each session typically lasts about 30 minutes.

Types of PE@PF Classes

Planet Fitness structures its PE@PF sessions around a few core categories:

Strength Training

The strength training focuses on resistance exercises using machines, dumbbells, and bodyweight movements.

Cardio

The cardio session involves treadmill, elliptical, or other cardio equipment with guided intervals.

Stretching and Recovery

This session targets flexibility and cool-down techniques, often using the stretch area.

Circuit Training

It combines cardio and strength stations in a timed rotation.

The exact schedule and class types vary by different Planet Fitness location. You can check what’s available at your local club through the Planet Fitness website or the PF app.

Who Can Take Planet Fitness Classes?

Access to PE@PF sessions depends on which membership plan you have.

Note

Planet Fitness currently offers a few membership tiers, and both the Classic Card and PF Black Card memberships include PE@PF sessions.

➤ Previously, these sessions were only available to Black Card holders. However, Planet Fitness expanded access so that Classic Card members can also participate. This is a notable change because it means even members on the lower-cost plan can attend group training.

Do You Need to Sign Up in Advance?

At most locations, you do need to sign up for PE@PF sessions ahead of time.

You can do this through the Planet Fitness app or by speaking with a trainer at your club. Space in each session is limited to keep the groups small, so booking early is a good idea, especially during peak hours.

➤ Walk-ins may be accepted if spots are open, but this varies by location and time of day.

How Planet Fitness Classes Compare to Other Gyms

If you’re used to the group fitness experience at gyms like Equinox or even your local YMCA, the PE@PF format will feel quite different.

Most traditional gyms offer dedicated group exercise rooms with scheduled classes like spinning, yoga, Zumba, or HIIT. Planet Fitness does not offer these types of classes.

Here’s a straightforward comparison:

✦ Traditional gyms often have 20+ class types. Planet Fitness sticks to a handful of core formats.
✦ Most gyms have separate rooms for classes. Planet Fitness runs sessions on the main floor.
✦ PE@PF sessions are deliberately beginner friendly. Other gyms often offer advanced and high-intensity options.
✦ Planet Fitness memberships start around $15/month. Gyms with extensive class schedules typically charge $40 to $100+ monthly.

This trade-off is intentional. Planet Fitness positions itself as a “Judgement Free Zone” aimed at casual gym-goers and beginners, not competitive athletes or experienced lifters looking for advanced programming.

Are the Trainers at Planet Fitness Qualified?

Yes. Planet Fitness requires its trainers to hold nationally recognized certifications.

Many hold credentials from organizations like ACE (American Council on Exercise), NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine), or similar accredited bodies.

The role of a PE@PF trainer is somewhat different from a personal trainer at a boutique studio. They’re guiding a small group through a general workout, not building individualized programs.

If you need a fully customized training plan, you’ll likely need to look outside of Planet Fitness or work with an independent personal trainer.

Benefits of PE@PF Sessions

Even though the classes are simpler than what other gyms offer, they serve a real purpose for certain members.

✦ If you’re new to the gym and don’t know where to start, a guided session removes the guesswork.

✦ The sessions are included with your membership. You don’t pay anything above your monthly dues.

✦ Small groups and a relaxed atmosphere make it easy to ask questions without feeling self-conscious.

✦ Having a scheduled session to attend can help you stay on track with your routine.

For members who are just starting their fitness journey, these sessions can be the bridge between doing nothing and building a solid habit.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

The PE@PF program is not for everyone. If you’re looking for high-energy group classes, specialty formats like kickboxing or barre, or advanced programming, Planet Fitness won’t meet those needs.

A few specific limitations worth noting:

Limitations

Class types
Difficulty level
Class availability
Class environment

Details

No yoga, Pilates, cycling, dance classes
Beginner; may feel too easy for regulars
Inconsistent; varies by location
On-floor format; no separate quiet space

If group fitness classes are a top priority for you, a gym with a dedicated group exercise schedule may be a better fit. But if you want affordable access to a gym with some guided training options, Planet Fitness delivers solid value.

Does Planet Fitness Have Virtual or On-Demand Classes?

Planet Fitness has expanded into digital fitness content through its app. The Planet Fitness app includes workout routines and exercise tutorials that members can follow on their own, either at home or in the gym.

Note

These aren’t live virtual classes in the way that Peloton or Apple Fitness+ operates, but they’re useful for guided workouts outside of PE@PF sessions.

The app is free to download for all members and includes content organized by muscle group, fitness goal, and difficulty level.

How to Get the Most Out of Planet Fitness Classes

If you decide to try PE@PF, a few practical steps will help you have a better experience:

Reserve your spot through the app as soon as sessions are posted for the week.
Let them know your fitness level and any injuries before the session starts.
Attending regularly helps you build familiarity with the exercises and track your progress.
Once you feel confident with the basics, you can branch out and create your own routines.

Frequently Asked Questions