The Shocking Truth: Why Planet Fitness Charged Me $39 Without Warning

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Are you a member of Planet Fitness and were recently surprised by a charge of $39 on your account? If so, you may be wondering, “why did Planet Fitness charge me 39?” Well, fear not as you are not alone in this situation. Many individuals have reported similar experiences and it has caused quite a stir in the fitness community. In this article, we will dive into the possible reasons behind this charge and what steps you can take to rectify the situation. So, whether you’re a loyal Planet Fitness member or just curious about their fees, keep reading to learn more.

Introduction

Planet Fitness is a popular gym chain known for its affordable membership fees and friendly atmosphere. However, many members have recently been surprised by an additional charge of $39 on their credit or debit card statements. If you are one of the many people wondering, “Why did Planet Fitness charge me 39 dollars?” then keep reading to find out the possible reasons behind this charge.

Understanding Planet Fitness Membership Fees

Before diving into why Planet Fitness may have charged you $39, it is important to understand the gym’s membership fees. Planet Fitness offers two types of memberships – a basic membership and a black card membership. The basic membership costs $10 per month and includes access to all Planet Fitness locations, free fitness training, and unlimited guest privileges. The black card membership costs $22.99 per month and includes all the benefits of the basic membership plus access to additional amenities such as tanning, massage chairs, and reciprocal use of other Planet Fitness locations.

Annual Maintenance Fee

The most common reason for a $39 charge from Planet Fitness is the annual maintenance fee. As stated in the gym’s membership agreement, all members are subject to this fee once a year on a designated date. This fee covers unexpected repairs and upgrades to keep equipment in good working condition for members.

If you signed up for your Planet Fitness membership between December 1st and January 31st, your annual maintenance fee will be charged in February. For members who joined between February 1st and March 31st, the fee will be charged in April. Regardless of when you joined, this fee is non-refundable and will be charged each year on your designated date.

Billing Errors

Another possible reason for the $39 charge from Planet Fitness could be due to billing errors. These errors can occur if there is an issue with your credit or debit card on file, such as an expired card or insufficient funds. The gym may also charge this fee if you have made changes to your membership, such as upgrading to the black card membership, which may result in a prorated amount being charged.

To avoid these types of billing errors, make sure that your credit or debit card information is up-to-date and that you have enough funds available for the monthly membership fee. If you notice any discrepancies on your statement, reach out to Planet Fitness’s customer service for assistance.

Annual Enhancement Fee

In addition to the annual maintenance fee, some Planet Fitness locations also charge an annual enhancement fee. This is a one-time charge of $39.99 and is typically used towards upgrades and renovations at the specific location where you signed up for your membership.

Not all Planet Fitness locations charge this fee, so it is important to check with your home gym to see if they do. You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting them directly.

Additional Fees

Apart from the annual maintenance and enhancement fees, there are a few other fees that Planet Fitness may charge its members. These include a start-up fee when you first join the gym (typically around $20), a late cancellation fee for cancelling your membership early (usually $58), and a lost access key replacement fee (varies by location). It is important to familiarize yourself with these fees before joining so that there are no surprises down the road.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several reasons why Planet Fitness may have charged you $39. The most common reason is their annual maintenance fee, which is charged once a year on a designated date. Other possible reasons include billing errors or additional fees such as the annual enhancement fee.

If you still have questions or concerns about the $39 charge from Planet Fitness, it is best to reach out to their customer service team for clarification. Remember to always review your membership agreement and stay up-to-date on any fees associated with your membership.

Understanding Planet Fitness Membership Charges

Planet Fitness is one of the most popular gym chains in the United States, with over 2,000 locations and millions of members. As a member of Planet Fitness, you have access to a wide range of workout equipment, classes, and amenities at an affordable price. However, it is not uncommon for some members to look at their bank statements and wonder why they were charged an extra $39 by Planet Fitness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain everything you need to know about why Planet Fitness may have charged you $39.

The Annual Membership Fee

The $39 charge that you see on your bank statement from Planet Fitness is the annual membership fee. This fee is automatically deducted from your account once a year on the anniversary date of when you joined the gym. This fee is outlined in your membership agreement and is standard across all Planet Fitness locations.

The purpose of this fee is to help cover the costs of maintaining the gym equipment and facilities. As a member of Planet Fitness, you are entitled to use all equipment and facilities without any additional fees or charges. The annual membership fee helps keep these amenities in top condition for all members to enjoy.

Why Was I Not Informed About This Fee?

When signing up for a membership at Planet Fitness, it is important to carefully review all aspects of the membership agreement. The annual membership fee is outlined in this agreement, as well as any other fees or charges that may be associated with your membership.

It is also worth noting that Planet Fitness sends out email reminders about upcoming charges, including the annual membership fee. If you did not receive these emails or they ended up in your spam folder, it may be worth updating your contact information with the gym.

What Happens if I Cancel My Membership Before My Anniversary Date?

If you cancel your membership before your anniversary date, you will still be charged the annual membership fee. This is stated in the membership agreement and is non-negotiable. The only way to avoid this charge is to cancel your membership after your anniversary date.

However, if you are unable to continue your membership due to unexpected circumstances, such as a medical condition or financial hardship, you may be able to freeze or cancel your membership without incurring the annual fee. It is best to reach out to your local Planet Fitness location for assistance in this situation.

What Other Charges Should I Be Aware Of?

Aside from the annual membership fee, there are a few other charges that you should be aware of as a Planet Fitness member. These include:

– Monthly Membership Fee: This is the standard fee that is charged each month for access to Planet Fitness facilities and amenities.
– Start-Up Fee: When you initially sign up for a membership at Planet Fitness, you may be required to pay a one-time start-up fee.
– Late Fees: If you miss a payment on your monthly membership fee, a late fee may be applied.
– Cancellation Fee: If you choose to cancel your membership before the end of your contract term, there may be a cancellation fee.

It is important to carefully review all fees and charges in your membership agreement and contact Planet Fitness if you have any questions or concerns.

Conclusion

It is understandable why seeing an extra $39 charge from Planet Fitness may come as a surprise. However, it is important to remember that this charge is clearly outlined in the membership agreement and helps cover the costs of maintaining the gym facilities. If you have any further questions or concerns about this charge or any other fees associated with your Planet Fitness membership, do not hesitate to reach out to your local gym for assistance. Remember, being an informed member will help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience at Planet Fitness.

Q: Why did Planet Fitness charge me $39?
A: The $39 charge is most likely your annual fee, which all members are required to pay on top of their monthly membership fees. This fee covers gym maintenance and upgrades.

Q: Can I opt-out of the $39 charge from Planet Fitness?
A: No, the annual fee is non-negotiable and is mandatory for all members. However, you can contact your gym to discuss any financial hardship or concerns you may have.

Q: When will I be charged the $39 fee from Planet Fitness?
A: The $39 charge from Planet Fitness will typically occur around the same month as when you first signed up for your membership. It will be charged on the annual date of your enrollment.

Q: Do I have to pay the $39 fee every year as a Planet Fitness member?
A: Yes, all members are required to pay the annual fee every year as part of their membership. This ensures that our facilities remain clean, well-maintained, and equipped with modern equipment for our members.

Q: Can I get a refund for the $39 charge from Planet Fitness if I cancel my membership?
A: No, the annual fee is non-refundable even if you choose to cancel your membership. However, if you are within your 5-day cooling-off period, you may be eligible for a full refund of any fees paid.

Q: What happens if I am unable to pay the $39 charge from Planet Fitness on time?
A: If you are unable to pay by your scheduled date, late fees may incur. It is important to contact your local gym as soon as possible if you are facing financial difficulties that may affect payment.

In conclusion, Planet Fitness charging its members a $39 annual fee has been a topic of discussion and confusion for many individuals. Through the analysis of various factors, including the terms and conditions of membership, the company’s business model, and the experiences of customers, it can be understood that this charge is legitimate and serves a purpose in maintaining affordable gym membership prices.

Many customers may have been caught off guard by this fee due to a lack of understanding or awareness of their membership agreement. It is crucial for individuals to carefully read through all terms and conditions before signing up for any service to avoid any unexpected charges in the future.

Furthermore, Planet Fitness’ pricing strategy aims to provide an affordable fitness option for all individuals. By keeping the monthly fees low and incorporating an annual fee, they are able to cover operational costs while still providing quality equipment and facilities. This approach has allowed them to attract a large and diverse member base.

On a positive note, this annual fee also serves as an incentive for members to stay active and utilize their membership throughout the year. This aligns with the company’s mission of promoting a healthy lifestyle and encouraging consistent gym attendance.

In conclusion, while some may feel frustrated or confused by the $39 annual fee charged by Planet Fitness, it is ultimately a legitimate business

Author Profile

Avatar
Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.