Can you get a tan at Planet Fitness? Yes, if you have a “Black Card” membership, you can access their tanning facilities. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using the Planet Fitness tanning options to achieve a beautiful glow. We’ll cover the Planet Fitness tanning packages, Planet Fitness tanning rules, and provide plenty of Planet Fitness tanning tips for the best results.
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Discovering Planet Fitness Tanning Packages
Planet Fitness offers tanning as a perk for its premium members. The primary way to access the Planet Fitness tanning salon is through their “Black Card” membership.
The Black Card Membership: Your Gateway to a Tan
The Black Card membership is the key to unlocking the tanning beds at Planet Fitness. For a monthly fee, you get access to all the standard gym amenities plus:
- Unlimited HydroMassage: Relax and recover with a water-based massage.
- Guest Pass: Bring a friend for free every time you visit.
- Full Club Access: Use any Planet Fitness location nationwide.
- Tanning Booths and Beds: This is where the magic happens for your tan!
There isn’t a separate Planet Fitness tanning membership; it’s integrated into the Black Card offering. This makes it a cost-effective option if you’re already considering a premium gym membership and want to tan.
Exploring Planet Fitness Tanning Options
Planet Fitness provides two main types of tanning equipment for its members:
The Lay-Down Tanning Beds
These are the more traditional tanning beds you might be familiar with.
- How they work: You lie down inside a bed with tanning lamps on both the top and bottom. This ensures an even tan all over your body.
- Intensity: Planet Fitness typically offers what they call “Level 1” tanning beds. These are designed for gradual tanning and are less intense than some high-pressure beds found in dedicated tanning salons. This is a good option for beginners or those with fairer skin.
- Session Length: Sessions are usually limited to a set time, often around 10-15 minutes, to prevent overexposure.
The Stand-Up Tanning Booths
For those who prefer to stand, Planet Fitness also offers stand-up tanning booths.
- How they work: These are vertical booths where you stand. The tanning lamps are positioned around you.
- Convenience: Many people find stand-up booths more convenient as you don’t have to flip halfway through your session, and some feel it allows for a more uniform tan without pressure points.
- Intensity: Similar to the lay-down beds, the stand-up booths at Planet Fitness are typically Level 1, focusing on a more gradual and controlled tan.
Choosing the Right Option for You
The choice between lay-down beds and stand-up booths often comes down to personal preference.
- For an all-over, deep tan: Many find lay-down beds offer a more thorough tan, especially for areas that might be missed in a stand-up booth.
- For convenience and avoiding tan lines: Stand-up booths can be quicker and easier, especially if you’re in a hurry.
It’s worth trying both to see which you prefer. The Planet Fitness tanning options are designed to be accessible and user-friendly for all members.
Essential Planet Fitness Tanning Tips for Great Results
Achieving a beautiful tan requires more than just lying in a bed. Following these Planet Fitness tanning tips will help you get the best results and stay safe.
Before Your Session
- Exfoliate: This is perhaps the most crucial tip. A day or two before your tanning session, exfoliate your entire body. This removes dead skin cells, allowing the tan to develop more evenly and last longer. Pay extra attention to dry areas like elbows, knees, and ankles.
- Shave (Optional): If you shave, do it before your tanning session. Shaving can exfoliate the skin, and doing it beforehand can help prevent irritation during your tan.
- Avoid Lotions and Perfumes: On the day of your tanning session, do not apply any moisturizers, lotions, perfumes, or deodorants to your skin. These can create barriers that prevent the UV rays from reaching your skin evenly, leading to patchy results. The only exception is Planet Fitness tanning lotion, which we’ll discuss next.
During Your Session
- Use Tanning Lotion: While Planet Fitness may not provide it directly, using a high-quality Planet Fitness tanning lotion is highly recommended. Tanning lotions, also known as tanning accelerators or intensifiers, help to:
- Moisturize your skin: This keeps your skin supple and helps the tan develop more evenly.
- Boost melanin production: Ingredients like tyrosine can help your skin tan faster and deeper.
- Prevent drying: UV exposure can dry out your skin, and lotions counteract this.
- Protect sensitive areas: Some lotions have ingredients that can help protect delicate skin.
- Where to get it: You can purchase tanning lotions from dedicated tanning salons, online retailers, or sometimes at the Planet Fitness front desk, although availability may vary.
- Wear Protective Eyewear: Always wear the protective eyewear provided. Your eyelids are delicate and can be damaged by UV exposure. If you forget yours, ask at the front desk.
- Positioning: In lay-down beds, ensure you are positioned comfortably and evenly. In stand-up booths, try to distribute your weight and move slightly to ensure all areas are exposed to the lamps.
- Follow Session Time Limits: Adhere strictly to the recommended session times. Starting with shorter sessions and gradually increasing them as your skin tans is a good practice.
After Your Session
- Wipe Down: After your tanning session, use the provided wipes or a damp cloth to wipe down any excess tanning lotion from your skin. This helps prevent streaking and stops the tanning process prematurely.
- Moisturize: Immediately after showering (wait at least 4-6 hours after tanning before showering), apply a good quality moisturizer. Keeping your skin hydrated is key to making your tan last longer.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
- Continue Exfoliating (Gently): Once your tan has developed, you can gently exfoliate every few days to help it fade evenly. However, avoid harsh scrubbing.
Navigating Planet Fitness Tanning Rules and Etiquette
To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, Planet Fitness has specific rules regarding their tanning facilities. Familiarizing yourself with these Planet Fitness tanning rules is important.
Membership Requirement
- As mentioned, only Black Card members can use the tanning beds. If you are a basic member, you will need to upgrade your membership.
Booking and Availability
- First-Come, First-Served: Generally, tanning beds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Planet Fitness typically does not offer a reservation system for tanning.
- Busy Times: During peak gym hours, you may have to wait for a tanning bed. Consider going during off-peak times for quicker access.
Cleanliness and Hygiene
- Sanitization: Planet Fitness provides cleaning supplies and wipes. It is your responsibility to wipe down the tanning bed or booth before and after your use. This helps maintain a clean environment for all members.
- Attire: Wear appropriate attire. Some people choose to tan nude for an all-over tan, while others wear swimwear or underwear. Ensure whatever you wear is clean and suitable for the tanning bed.
Time Limits
- Strict Adherence: The time limits for tanning sessions are strictly enforced to ensure fairness and safety. The machines automatically shut off after the set duration.
No Tanning Lotions or Sprays Allowed (Except Specific Types)
- Planet Fitness Tanning Lotion: This is a common point of confusion. You generally cannot use your own self-tanning lotions, spray tans, or bronzers in the tanning beds. These can damage the equipment.
- Approved Tanning Accelerators: However, specialized tanning lotions designed specifically for use in UV tanning beds (often referred to as “tanning lotions” or “accelerators” rather than “self-tanners”) are usually permitted. These lotions are formulated to work with UV rays and are often sold at tanning salons or sometimes at Planet Fitness. Always check with the club manager if you are unsure about the type of Planet Fitness tanning lotion you can use.
Other Important Rules
- No Food or Drink: Keep food and drinks outside the tanning area.
- Towels: Bring your own towel to wipe down and protect yourself.
- Respect Other Members: Be considerate of others waiting and maintain a quiet atmosphere in the tanning area.
The Pros and Cons of Planet Fitness Tanning
Like any service, there are Planet Fitness tanning pros and cons to consider.
Pros
- Affordability: If you’re already a Black Card member, the tanning benefit is essentially free. It’s much cheaper than paying for individual tanning sessions or salon memberships.
- Convenience: Having tanning facilities at your regular gym means you can combine your workout with your tan.
- Accessibility: With numerous locations nationwide, you can often find a Planet Fitness with tanning beds, even when traveling.
- Beginner-Friendly: The lower-intensity beds are good for those new to tanning or those who want to build a base tan slowly.
- Cleanliness (When Maintained): When members follow the cleaning rules, the facilities are generally well-maintained.
Cons
- Limited Intensity: The Level 1 beds may not be sufficient for experienced tanners or those seeking a very dark tan quickly. High-pressure beds in dedicated salons offer more intense tanning.
- Limited Equipment: With only a few beds or booths per club, availability can be an issue, especially during busy periods.
- No Personalization: You don’t have access to personalized tanning advice or a wider variety of equipment types (e.g., high-pressure, cosmetic beds) as you might in a specialized salon.
- Potential for Overuse: The affordability and accessibility might tempt some members to tan too frequently, increasing the risks associated with UV exposure.
- Rules on Lotions: The restrictions on using your own tanning lotions can be a drawback if you have a preferred brand or type of product.
Maximizing Your Tan: Advanced Planet Fitness Tanning Tips
Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are some advanced Planet Fitness tanning tips to help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, even tan.
Stagger Your Sessions
- Don’t try to get super dark in just one or two sessions. Build your tan gradually.
- Start with one session every 2-3 days.
- As your tan deepens, you might be able to reduce the frequency, but always listen to your skin.
The Importance of Skin Prep and Aftercare
We’ve touched on this, but it’s worth reiterating for maximum impact.
- Pre-Tan Hydration: While you shouldn’t moisturize right before tanning, ensure your skin is well-hydrated in the days leading up to your session. Drinking plenty of water is key.
- Post-Tan Shower Timing: The “development time” for a UV tan is crucial. Wait at least 4-6 hours, and ideally longer (8-12 hours if possible), before showering after your tanning session. This allows your skin to fully absorb the UV light and produce melanin.
- Gentle Cleansing: When you do shower, use a mild, moisturizing body wash. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip your tan.
Choosing the Right Tanning Lotion
Investing in a quality tanning lotion designed for UV beds can make a significant difference. Look for lotions that contain:
- Melanin Stimulators: Ingredients like L-Tyrosine help your skin tan more efficiently.
- Bronzers (Low Level): Some lotions have very low levels of cosmetic bronzers that give an instant color boost. These are different from self-tanners. Ensure they are designed for UV beds.
- Moisturizers: Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and natural oils keep your skin hydrated.
- Antioxidants: Vitamins A, C, and E can help protect your skin.
When in doubt, ask a staff member at Planet Fitness if they have any recommendations or if specific types of Planet Fitness tanning lotion are allowed.
Targeted Tanning for Specific Areas
- Pressure Points: For lay-down beds, try to shift your weight slightly halfway through your session to avoid “pressure points” where the tan might be lighter due to pressure.
- Uneven Tanning: If you notice certain areas aren’t tanning as well, you can try holding a slightly longer distance from the lamps or adjusting your position.
Maintaining Your Tan
- Moisturize Daily: Apply a good quality, fragrance-free moisturizer twice a day. This is the single best thing you can do to make your tan last.
- Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure: Long, hot baths and swimming pools (especially those with high chlorine levels) can fade your tan faster.
- Gentle Exfoliation: As mentioned, gentle exfoliation helps your tan fade evenly, preventing patchy skin.
The Benefits of Tanning (With Caution)
The Planet Fitness tanning benefits are primarily aesthetic – achieving a sun-kissed glow without the sun. However, it’s crucial to remember the inherent risks of UV exposure.
Aesthetic Benefits
- Improved Appearance: A tan can make your skin look smoother, more even-toned, and can even subtly mask minor imperfections like blemishes or scars.
- Vitamin D Production: UV radiation from tanning beds does stimulate Vitamin D production in the skin. However, this can also be achieved through sensible sun exposure or supplements.
- Psychological Boost: For some, a tan provides a feeling of health and confidence.
Important Considerations and Risks
It’s vital to be aware of the risks associated with any form of UV tanning, including Planet Fitness tanning beds.
- Skin Cancer: UV radiation is a known carcinogen. Excessive exposure, regardless of the source, increases the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.
- Premature Aging: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and leathery skin over time.
- Eye Damage: Without proper eye protection, UV rays can damage the eyes, leading to conditions like cataracts.
- Burns: Even with lower-intensity beds, it’s possible to get a sunburn if you exceed recommended times or have very sensitive skin.
Planet Fitness provides these amenities as part of their membership, but the responsibility for safe and responsible use lies with the member. Moderation is key.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planet Fitness Tanning
Here are some common questions people have about tanning at Planet Fitness.
Q1: Do I need a special membership for tanning at Planet Fitness?
A: Yes, you need a “Black Card” membership to access the tanning beds and booths. Basic memberships do not include this perk.
Q2: Can I use my own tanning lotion at Planet Fitness?
A: Generally, you cannot use self-tanners, bronzing lotions, or lotions with shimmer. However, specialized tanning lotions (accelerators/intensifiers) designed for use in UV tanning beds are usually permitted. It’s best to check with the specific Planet Fitness club if you are unsure about the product you wish to use.
Q3: How often should I use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness?
A: For beginners, start with one session every 2-3 days. As your skin develops a base tan, you can adjust the frequency, but always listen to your skin and avoid overexposure. It’s recommended to limit tanning sessions to avoid excessive UV exposure.
Q4: What if the tanning bed is dirty?
A: Planet Fitness provides cleaning supplies. It is expected that all members clean the tanning beds or booths before and after use. If you find a bed is excessively dirty and not properly cleaned by the previous user, report it to the staff.
Q5: Are the tanning beds at Planet Fitness safe?
A: Tanning beds use UV radiation, which carries inherent risks, including increased chances of skin cancer and premature aging. Planet Fitness beds are typically Level 1, meaning they are less intense than some salon beds, but they still emit UV rays. Always follow session time limits and use protective eyewear. Moderation and informed use are crucial for safety.
Q6: Can I tan nude at Planet Fitness?
A: While Planet Fitness doesn’t explicitly prohibit tanning nude, the focus is on maintaining a clean and respectful environment. Members typically wear swimwear or underwear. If you choose to tan nude for an all-over tan, ensure you clean the bed thoroughly afterward and be mindful of privacy.
Q7: How long do I have to wait before showering after tanning?
A: It’s recommended to wait at least 4-6 hours, but ideally 8-12 hours, before showering after a UV tanning session. This allows your skin to continue producing melanin and fully benefit from the UV exposure.
Q8: Can I buy tanning lotion at Planet Fitness?
A: Some Planet Fitness locations may sell tanning lotions at the front desk, but availability can vary. It’s often easier and offers a wider selection to purchase tanning lotions from dedicated tanning salons or online retailers.
By following these guidelines and tips, you can make the most of the tanning facilities available with your Planet Fitness tanning membership, achieving a nice glow while being mindful of your skin’s health.