Unfreezing the Truth: Can You Freeze Your Planet Fitness Membership?

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many facets of our daily lives have been impacted, including our fitness routines. For those who are members of Planet Fitness, one question that may be on their mind is “Can you freeze your Planet Fitness membership?” With gyms temporarily closing and social distancing measures in place, it’s a valid inquiry that has left many wondering about the fate of their fitness journey. In this article, we will dive into this pressing question and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about freezing your Planet Fitness membership. So let’s get started and find out if putting your gym membership on ice is a feasible option during these unprecedented times.

Introduction

Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing fitness chains in the world, with over 2,000 locations across the United States. With affordable membership rates and a “Judgement Free Zone” philosophy, Planet Fitness has become a popular choice for those looking to start or continue their fitness journey. However, sometimes life circumstances may arise that make it difficult to maintain your regular gym routine. Whether it’s injury, travel, or financial constraints, you may find yourself wondering if you can freeze your Planet Fitness membership. In this article, we will explore the answer to this common question and provide you with all the necessary information you need to know about freezing your membership at Planet Fitness.

Membership Freeze Policy at Planet Fitness

Before diving into the details of how to freeze your membership at Planet Fitness, it’s important to understand their policies regarding membership freezes. Planet Fitness offers members various options for managing their memberships in case they need to take a break from the gym. One of these options is “Freeze/Reactivation”. This service allows members to put their membership on hold for a designated period without any additional fees or penalties.

How Long Can You Freeze Your Membership?

The length of time you can freeze your Planet Fitness membership depends on your specific plan and contract terms. Generally, standard memberships can be frozen for up to three months in a 12-month period. Black Card memberships have more flexibility and can be frozen for up to six months in a 12-month period.

It’s important to note that every member has a maximum limit for freezes over the course of their membership. For example, if your contract is for 12 months, you can only freeze for three months within that time frame before having to pay an additional fee or risk cancellation of your contract.

How Much Does It Cost To Freeze Your Membership?

At Planet Fitness, there is no charge for freezing your membership. However, if you choose to cancel your membership and then rejoin at a later date, you will have to pay the current startup fee. This can range from $1 – $29, depending on the location and current promotions.

How To Freeze Your Membership

Freezing your Planet Fitness membership is a fairly simple process. The first step is to figure out if your membership qualifies for a freeze. As mentioned earlier, standard memberships can be frozen for up to three months, while Black Card memberships can be frozen for up to six months in a 12-month period.

Once you have determined that your membership is eligible for a freeze, you can request it either in person at your local Planet Fitness or by calling their customer service line. When making the request, make sure to have your membership card or barcode number handy.

It’s important to note that you cannot request a freeze online or through the Planet Fitness mobile app. This must be done in person or by phone.

Reasons To Freeze Your Membership

Now that you know how to freeze your Planet Fitness membership and the policies surrounding it, let’s discuss some of the common reasons why people may choose to do so.

Temporary Medical/Emergency Situations

Unfortunately, life can throw unexpected curveballs our way and sometimes these situations may require us to take some time off from our regular routines. If you experience an injury or need surgery that will affect your ability to exercise for an extended period of time, freezing your gym membership may be the best option for you. The same goes for any other emergency situations that may arise.

Traveling/Frequent Work Trips

Many people choose to freeze their gym memberships when they know they will be away from home for an extended period of time. Whether it’s for work or pleasure, traveling can disrupt your gym routine and make it difficult to fully utilize your membership. In these cases, freezing your membership can save you money and avoid any frustration of paying for a service you’re not able to use.

Financial Constraints

Life can be unpredictable, and financial situations can change in an instant. If you find yourself unable to afford your monthly gym dues, freezing your Planet Fitness membership can help alleviate some of that stress. This option allows you to pause your membership without having to cancel and potentially pay a startup fee later on.

Things To Keep In Mind

While freezing your Planet Fitness membership may seem like the perfect solution for temporary disruptions, there are a few things to keep in mind before making the decision.

Maximum Limit For Freezes

As mentioned earlier, every member has a maximum limit for freezes over the course of their membership. So, if you know you have a long-term trip or medical situation coming up in the near future, it’s important to plan accordingly and not use up all of your freeze months before then.

Additionally, if you have already reached your maximum limit but still need to freeze your membership, it will

Understanding the Freezing Process at Planet Fitness

At Planet Fitness, members have the option to freeze their memberships for a certain period of time. This can be a useful feature for those who may need a break from their gym routine or cannot attend due to personal reasons. However, many have questions about this process and wonder if it is possible to freeze their membership. In this article, we will address the commonly asked question: “Can you freeze your Planet Fitness membership?”

Planet Fitness allows its members to freeze their membership for up to three months per year. This means that you can take a break from your membership without having to pay any fees or cancel your membership altogether. But before freezing your membership, it is important to understand the process and its implications.

The Process of Freezing Your Planet Fitness Membership

Freezing your Planet Fitness membership is a simple process that can be done either online or in person at your local club. To start the freezing process, login to your member account on the Planet Fitness website and select the “Freeze” option under “Membership Info.” Alternatively, you can visit your local club and speak with a staff member who will assist you in freezing your membership.

During the freezing period, your account will be put on hold and you will not have access to any of the gym facilities. This means that any payments linked to your account will also be stopped until the end of the freeze period. It is important to note that once your membership is frozen, it cannot be canceled until after the completion of the freeze period.

Why Freeze Your Membership?

There are various reasons why someone may choose to freeze their Planet Fitness membership. One main reason is due to travel or temporary relocation where access to a Planet Fitness location may not be available. Additionally, if you are unable to use gym facilities due to an injury or medical issue, freezing your membership can be a viable option.

Another reason to freeze your membership is if you are on a tight budget and need to cut back on expenses temporarily. Freezing your Planet Fitness membership will allow you to hold onto your membership benefits without having to pay the monthly fee.

What Happens After the Freeze Period?

Once the freeze period has ended, your membership will automatically be reactivated and payments will resume as normal. You will receive an email reminder a week before the end of the freeze period, giving you ample time to decide whether you want to extend the freeze or reactivate your membership.

If you choose to reactivate your membership, simply visit the Planet Fitness website or local club and select the “Reinstate Membership” option under “Membership Info.” Your account will be reactivated immediately and you will have access to all gym facilities and services once again.

Is There a Fee for Freezing Your Membership?

Unlike canceling a membership, there is no fee associated with freezing your Planet Fitness membership. However, there are limitations on how long you can freeze your account. As mentioned earlier, members are allowed to freeze their accounts for up to three months per year. If you wish to extend the freeze period beyond three months, there is a small fee of $5 per month that must be paid during each additional month of hold.

Can You Freeze Your Black Card Membership?

If you have a Black Card membership at Planet Fitness, you can still freeze your account but with some limitations. As mentioned earlier, during the freeze period, you will not have access to any gym facilities. This includes any exclusive benefits that come with having a Black Card membership such as tanning beds, massage chairs, and guest passes.

However, if you wish to extend the freeze period beyond three months for your Black Card membership, there is an additional fee of $10 per month. This will allow you to continue utilizing your Black Card benefits even while your membership is on hold.

In conclusion, yes, you can freeze your Planet Fitness membership for up to three months per year without incurring any fees. The process is simple and can be done either online or in person at your local club. This feature can be useful for those who may need a break from their gym routine or are unable to use gym facilities due to personal reasons. However, it is important to understand the limitations and implications of freezing your membership. Overall, freezing a Planet Fitness membership can be a convenient option for members who need a temporary break from their fitness journey without having to cancel their membership altogether.

1. Can you freeze your Planet Fitness membership?
Yes, you can freeze your Planet Fitness membership if you need to take a break from working out for a specific period of time.

2. How long can I freeze my Planet Fitness membership for?
You can freeze your Planet Fitness membership for up to three months at a time. After three months, your membership will automatically unfreeze.

3. Is there a fee for freezing my Planet Fitness membership?
According to the Planet Fitness website, there is a $10 fee per month to freeze your membership. However, this may vary depending on your location and specific membership plan.

4. Can I freeze my membership online or do I have to go to a gym location?
You can freeze your Planet Fitness membership online through the Member Services section of their website. You do not have to go into a gym location to process the freeze request.

5. What happens to my billing while my Planet Fitness membership is frozen?
During the time that your membership is frozen, you will not be charged your monthly dues. If you have an annual prepaid membership, the term will be extended by the amount of time that it was frozen.

6. How do I unfreeze my Planet Fitness membership?
To unfreeze your Planet Fitness membership, simply log into your Member Services account and select ‘Unfreeze Membership’. Keep in mind that this will reactivate your billing cycle and payments will resume as usual.

In conclusion, the decision to freeze your Planet Fitness membership ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and goals. If you know that you will be away from the gym for an extended period of time or are experiencing financial difficulties, freezing your membership may be a viable option. However, it is important to carefully consider the terms and conditions outlined by Planet Fitness before making this decision.

Additionally, it is important to note that freezing your membership may not be the most effective solution in the long run. It is always beneficial to actively communicate with the staff at Planet Fitness and explore other options such as downgrading your plan or taking advantage of their flexible cancellation policy.

Furthermore, maintaining a consistent exercise routine is crucial for achieving fitness goals and staying healthy. If possible, finding alternative ways to stay active during a time when regular gym access is not available can be beneficial. This could include outdoor activities, home workouts, or virtual fitness classes.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual to carefully weigh their options and make the best decision for their personal situation. While freezing memberships can provide temporary relief, it is important to consider the potential impact on fitness goals and overall health. With proper communication and planning, members can navigate potential freezes while still prioritizing their physical well-being at Planet Fitness.

Author Profile

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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.