Do Planet Fitness Have Scales and Why Do They Hide Them in the Locker Room?

Do Planet Fitness Have Scales and Why Do They Hide Them in the Locker Room?

When it comes to fitness centers, Planet Fitness has carved out a unique niche in the industry. Known for its “Judgment Free Zone” philosophy, the gym chain has become a haven for beginners and those who feel intimidated by traditional gyms. However, one question that often arises among members and potential members is: Do Planet Fitness have scales? The answer is yes, but with a twist. Planet Fitness does provide scales, but they are not prominently displayed in the workout areas. Instead, they are often tucked away in locker rooms or restrooms. This decision has sparked a lot of discussion and debate, and in this article, we’ll explore the reasoning behind it, the pros and cons, and what it means for gym-goers.


The Philosophy Behind Hiding the Scales

Planet Fitness is all about creating a non-intimidating environment. The gym’s founders wanted to break away from the traditional gym culture, which often emphasizes weight loss, muscle gain, and physical appearance. By hiding the scales, Planet Fitness sends a clear message: Your worth is not determined by a number on a scale. Instead, the focus is on overall health, well-being, and enjoying the process of getting fit.

This approach aligns with the gym’s broader mission to make fitness accessible to everyone, regardless of their current fitness level or body type. For many people, stepping on a scale can be a source of anxiety or discouragement, especially if they don’t see the results they were hoping for. By keeping scales out of sight, Planet Fitness aims to reduce this pressure and encourage members to focus on how they feel rather than how much they weigh.


The Pros of Hiding Scales

  1. Reduces Anxiety and Pressure
    For many people, stepping on a scale can be a stressful experience. By keeping scales in less visible areas, Planet Fitness helps members avoid unnecessary stress and focus on their workouts.

  2. Encourages a Holistic Approach to Fitness
    Fitness is about more than just weight loss. By de-emphasizing the scale, Planet Fitness encourages members to pay attention to other aspects of their health, such as strength, endurance, and mental well-being.

  3. Promotes a Judgment-Free Environment
    The absence of scales in common areas reinforces the gym’s “Judgment Free Zone” philosophy. Members are less likely to compare themselves to others based on weight, creating a more inclusive atmosphere.

  4. Supports Long-Term Goals
    Weight loss can be a slow and nonlinear process. By shifting the focus away from the scale, Planet Fitness helps members stay motivated and committed to their fitness journey, even when the numbers don’t change as quickly as they’d like.


The Cons of Hiding Scales

  1. Lack of Accountability
    For some people, regular weigh-ins are an important part of tracking progress. Without easy access to scales, members may feel like they’re missing a key tool for monitoring their fitness goals.

  2. Inconvenience
    Having to go to the locker room or restroom to use a scale can be inconvenient, especially for those who prefer to check their weight before or after a workout.

  3. Mixed Messages
    While Planet Fitness aims to de-emphasize weight, some members may feel that the gym is avoiding an important aspect of health. After all, weight can be a useful metric for tracking progress, particularly for those with specific weight loss goals.

  4. Potential for Misuse
    By hiding scales, Planet Fitness may inadvertently create a sense of mystery or obsession around weight. Some members might become more fixated on the scale precisely because it’s not readily available.


What Do Members Think?

Opinions among Planet Fitness members are divided. Some appreciate the gym’s efforts to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment, while others feel that the lack of visible scales is a missed opportunity to provide a valuable tool for tracking progress. Here are a few perspectives from real members:

  • Positive Feedback:
    “I love that Planet Fitness doesn’t shove scales in your face. It’s refreshing to go to a gym where the focus is on how you feel, not how much you weigh.”

  • Constructive Criticism:
    “I wish the scales were more accessible. I like to track my weight as part of my fitness journey, and having to go to the locker room every time is a hassle.”

  • Neutral Perspective:
    “I don’t really care either way. I go to the gym to work out, not to weigh myself. But I can see why some people might want easier access to scales.”


Alternatives to the Scale

For those who miss having scales readily available, there are other ways to track progress at Planet Fitness:

  1. Body Measurements
    Taking measurements of your waist, hips, arms, and other areas can provide a more comprehensive picture of your progress than weight alone.

  2. Progress Photos
    Regularly taking photos can help you see changes in your body that the scale might not reflect.

  3. Fitness Assessments
    Many Planet Fitness locations offer free fitness assessments, which can include measurements of body fat percentage, muscle mass, and more.

  4. How You Feel
    Pay attention to how your clothes fit, your energy levels, and your overall sense of well-being. These are often better indicators of progress than the number on a scale.


Conclusion

So, do Planet Fitness have scales? Yes, but they’re not front and center. This decision reflects the gym’s commitment to creating a supportive and non-intimidating environment for all members. While the approach has its pros and cons, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you love the idea of a scale-free workout space or wish the scales were more accessible, Planet Fitness offers a unique fitness experience that prioritizes inclusivity and well-being over numbers.


Q: Can I bring my own scale to Planet Fitness?
A: Yes, you can bring your own scale if you prefer to track your weight during your workouts. Just be mindful of the gym’s policies and etiquette.

Q: Does Planet Fitness offer body composition analysis?
A: Some locations offer free fitness assessments that include body composition analysis. Check with your local gym for availability.

Q: Why does Planet Fitness have a “no judgment” policy?
A: The policy is designed to create a welcoming environment for people of all fitness levels, particularly those who may feel intimidated by traditional gyms.

Q: Are there other gyms that hide scales?
A: While Planet Fitness is known for this approach, other gyms may also de-emphasize scales as part of their philosophy. It’s always a good idea to research a gym’s culture before joining.

Q: How can I track my progress without a scale?
A: Consider using body measurements, progress photos, fitness assessments, or simply paying attention to how you feel and how your clothes fit.