Can you use the tanning bed at Planet Fitness if you have a basic membership? No, you need a higher-tier membership, typically the “Black Card” membership, to access the tanning amenities. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using the Planet Fitness tanning booth to achieve a healthy glow.
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Deciphering Planet Fitness Tanning Booths
Planet Fitness offers tanning services as a perk for its Black Card members. These are not traditional, high-pressure tanning beds. Instead, Planet Fitness utilizes lay-down tanning beds that emit UV rays to stimulate melanin production in your skin, giving you a tanned appearance. It’s important to note that the tanning bed at Planet Fitness is designed for casual tanning and not for achieving very dark tans quickly.
Types of Tanning Equipment
Planet Fitness typically offers one type of tanning equipment:
- Lay-down Tanning Beds: These are enclosed beds where you lie down. They are generally considered a more comfortable option than stand-up booths for many users. The intensity and exposure time are usually controlled to promote safer tanning practices.
How Planet Fitness Tanning Works
When you sign up for a Black Card membership, you gain access to the tanning facilities. You’ll need to check in at the front desk and inform them you wish to use the tanning bed. They will guide you through the initial steps and ensure you have the necessary access.
Getting Started: Planet Fitness Tanning Instructions
Using the tanning bed at Planet Fitness is straightforward, but following these Planet Fitness tanning instructions is crucial for a good experience and to minimize risks.
Membership Requirements
As mentioned, you must have a Black Card membership to use the tanning facilities. If you have a standard membership, you won’t be able to access the tanning beds.
Booking Your Session
Planet Fitness does not typically require appointments for tanning. You can usually walk in and use the tanning beds on a first-come, first-served basis. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and the location’s busyness.
What to Bring and Wear
- Swimsuit or Underwear: You can wear a swimsuit, underwear, or go nude in the tanning bed. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you don’t mind getting tanning lotion on.
- Tanning Lotion (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly required, using a Planet Fitness tanning lotion can significantly enhance your tanning results. These lotions help moisturize your skin and can contain bronzers and tanning accelerators to deepen your tan.
- Protective Eyewear: This is MANDATORY. Planet Fitness provides protective eyewear (goggles). You must wear these to protect your eyes from UV radiation. Do not skip this step, even for short sessions.
- Towel (Optional): Some people prefer to bring their own towel for comfort or to lie on.
- Change of Clothes: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to change into after your session.
The Tanning Room
Planet Fitness tanning rooms are typically private, enclosed spaces. Inside the room, you’ll find the tanning bed itself, a place to hang your clothes and belongings, and a timer or control panel for the bed.
How to Use PF Tanning: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to use PF tanning facilities safely and effectively.
Step 1: Check-In and Preparation
- Inform the Front Desk: Let the staff know you’d like to use the tanning bed.
- Get Your Eyewear: Collect your mandatory protective goggles from the front desk or wherever they are stored.
- Locate the Tanning Room: The staff will direct you to the tanning area.
Step 2: Inside the Tanning Room
- Undress: Remove your clothing and any jewelry. Place your belongings in the designated area.
- Apply Tanning Lotion: If you brought or purchased Planet Fitness tanning lotion, apply it evenly to your skin. Avoid applying it to your face, especially if it contains bronzers, as it can cause uneven coloring. If you have sensitive areas or moles, you can cover them with a small piece of tape or a specialized covering.
- Put on Protective Eyewear: Securely place the tanning goggles over your eyes, ensuring a snug fit to block out all light.
Step 3: Using the Tanning Bed
- Enter the Bed: Carefully lie down inside the tanning bed. Position yourself comfortably. Many beds have handholds or straps to help you stay in place.
- Close the Lid: Gently close the lid of the tanning bed.
- Start the Timer: Locate the timer or control panel. Most Planet Fitness tanning beds are pre-set for a specific duration, often 12-15 minutes. If there’s a button to start, press it. If the bed automatically starts when the lid is closed, simply relax.
- Tan: Lie still and relax. You can gently shift your position halfway through if you feel it’s necessary, but avoid excessive movement.
- End of Session: The tanning bed will automatically shut off when the time is up. A light or sound usually indicates the end of the session.
Step 4: After Your Session
- Open the Lid: Carefully open the lid of the tanning bed.
- Exit the Bed: Get out of the tanning bed.
- Remove Eyewear: Take off your protective goggles.
- Wipe Off Excess Lotion: If you used a tanning lotion with bronzers, you might want to gently wipe off any excess with a towel, especially in areas where you applied it heavily.
- Get Dressed: Put on your clean, loose clothing.
- Exit the Room: Leave the tanning room and dispose of any used items appropriately.
Tanning Tips Planet Fitness: Maximizing Your Results and Safety
To get the most out of your experience and ensure safe tanning Planet Fitness, consider these tanning tips Planet Fitness.
Frequency of Sessions
- Start Slow: If you’re new to tanning, begin with shorter sessions and fewer times per week. Allow your skin to adjust.
- Listen to Your Skin: If you experience redness or burning, take a break. Your skin needs time to recover.
- Typical Schedule: For many, tanning 2-3 times a week is sufficient for building and maintaining a tan. However, always consult with your doctor or a dermatologist if you have concerns.
Using Planet Fitness Tanning Lotion
- Benefits: Planet Fitness tanning lotion can help moisturize your skin, prevent dryness, and accelerate the tanning process. Many also contain bronzers for a deeper, richer color.
- Application: Apply generously and evenly to clean, dry skin. Make sure to cover all exposed areas.
- After Tanning: Some lotions may require you to wait a few hours before showering to allow the bronzers to fully develop.
Exfoliation and Moisturizing
- Exfoliate: Before your first tanning session, gently exfoliate your skin. This removes dead skin cells, allowing for a more even tan. Avoid exfoliating right before a session as it can make your skin more sensitive.
- Moisturize Daily: After tanning, it’s essential to keep your skin moisturized. This helps your tan last longer and prevents peeling.
Tanning Bed Settings Planet Fitness
- Pre-Set Times: The tanning bed settings Planet Fitness uses are generally pre-set for safety and ease of use. You typically won’t have manual control over the UV intensity.
- Session Duration: The standard session length is usually around 12-15 minutes. It’s important to adhere to this duration.
Understanding Skin Types and Tanning
Your skin type will significantly impact how you tan. Those with fairer skin may need to start with shorter exposure times and build up gradually. Darker skin types can typically tan more easily but are still susceptible to UV damage.
Safety First: Safe Tanning Planet Fitness
Safe tanning Planet Fitness is paramount. While tanning beds can offer a way to achieve a tan, it’s essential to be aware of the risks associated with UV exposure.
UV Radiation and Risks
- Skin Damage: UV radiation can damage your skin, leading to premature aging (wrinkles, age spots) and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
- Eye Protection: Always wear the provided protective eyewear. UV rays can cause cataracts and other eye damage.
- Skin Cancer Risk: Excessive tanning, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is linked to an increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.
Planet Fitness Tanning Rules
Planet Fitness has established tanning bed rules Planet Fitness to promote safety and a positive experience for all members.
- Membership Requirement: Only Black Card members can use the tanning facilities.
- Eyewear Mandatory: You must wear the provided protective eyewear during every session.
- Session Limits: Adhere to the designated session times. Do not attempt to extend your session beyond the allotted time.
- No Food or Drink: Keep food and beverages out of the tanning rooms.
- Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness in the tanning room. Dispose of any used items properly.
- Age Restrictions: Typically, you must be 18 years or older to use the tanning beds. Some locations may have additional age verification processes.
- Frequency: While not always strictly enforced by a timer on the bed itself, members are generally advised to limit tanning sessions to avoid overexposure. Planet Fitness may have internal guidelines regarding how frequently a member can use the tanning beds in a given period.
What to Do If You Feel Unwell
If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or experience any discomfort during your tanning session, stop immediately and exit the tanning bed. Notify the front desk staff.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Planet Fitness Tanning
Q1: What is included with the Planet Fitness Black Card membership for tanning?
Answer: The Black Card membership includes unlimited access to the tanning beds during staffed hours, subject to availability.
Q2: Can I use the tanning bed if I have a fever or am feeling unwell?
Answer: No, it is not recommended to use the tanning bed if you are feeling unwell, have a fever, or have any open wounds or skin irritations.
Q3: How long should I wait between tanning sessions?
Answer: It’s best to allow at least 24-48 hours between tanning sessions to give your skin time to recover. Over-tanning can lead to burns and damage.
Q4: Can I bring my own tanning lotion to Planet Fitness?
Answer: Yes, you can bring your own Planet Fitness tanning lotion or any tanning-specific lotion. However, some lotions may not be suitable for tanning beds, so ensure yours is designed for this purpose. Avoid lotions that contain heavy oils or petroleum jelly, as these can damage the tanning bed acrylics.
Q5: Are there stand-up tanning booths at Planet Fitness?
Answer: Most Planet Fitness locations primarily offer lay-down tanning beds. Some may have stand-up units, but it’s best to check with your specific club if this is a preference.
Q6: What are the tanning bed settings Planet Fitness typically use?
Answer: The tanning bed settings Planet Fitness uses are generally pre-programmed for a standard session duration (e.g., 12-15 minutes) and a specific UV output. Members usually don’t have manual control over these settings to ensure consistent and safer tanning practices.
Q7: How do I know if I’m overexposed to UV rays?
Answer: Signs of overexposure include redness, burning, itching, or peeling skin. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop tanning immediately and allow your skin to heal.
Q8: Is tanning at Planet Fitness safe?
Answer: While Planet Fitness provides a controlled environment, all UV tanning carries inherent risks. It’s crucial to follow all tanning tips Planet Fitness and safe tanning Planet Fitness guidelines, including wearing protective eyewear and adhering to session limits. Moderation is key.
Q9: What if the tanning bed doesn’t work?
Answer: If you find a tanning bed is not functioning correctly, please report it to the front desk immediately so it can be serviced.
Q10: Do I need to clean the tanning bed after use?
Answer: Planet Fitness staff typically cleans and sanitizes the tanning beds between uses. However, if you notice any personal items left behind by a previous user, or if the bed appears in need of a quick wipe-down, you can use the provided sanitizing wipes.
By following these comprehensive Planet Fitness tanning instructions and tanning tips Planet Fitness, you can safely enjoy the benefits of the tanning bed at Planet Fitness as part of your Black Card membership. Remember that responsible tanning is the best tanning.