Does Planet Fitness Have a Pool?

As a fitness expert who has reviewed dozens of major US gym chains—from high-end clubs like Life Time to budget-friendly giants like Planet Fitness—one of the most common questions I get is about specific amenities.

And for those who rely on swimming for cardio or rehabilitation, one question always tops the list: "Does Planet Fitness have a pool?"

I know you're weighing that incredibly tempting $10-a-month price tag against your actual needs. You deserve a fast, clear, and trustworthy answer.

 

The Core Answer: Does Planet Fitness Have a Pool or Not?

 

The answer is definitive: No, Planet Fitness does not have pools at almost any of its locations.

This is not a random oversight; it's an intentional and core part of their business strategy. If you've heard a rumor that one does, it's almost certainly a misunderstanding or an extremely rare exception (like a location co-housed in a community center, which is not their standard model).

 

Why the $10/mo Gym Actively Avoids Pools

 

To understand this, you have to understand the Planet Fitness business model. As an industry analyst, I can tell you their success is built on two pillars: a high-value, low-price offer ($10/mo) and the "Judgement Free Zone®."

To maintain that $10/month classic membership, they must be ruthless in cutting operational costs. And in the gym business, a swimming pool is one of the "Big 3" cost centers.

1. Massive Construction Cost: The initial capital to build a commercial-grade, health-code-compliant indoor pool (including excavation, waterproofing, filtration, and heating systems) is enormous.
2. Extreme Maintenance Cost: A pool requires constant, daily maintenance, including chemical testing, cleaning, 24/7 circulation, and heating. These are significant, ongoing operational expenses.
3. High Liability Cost: Aquatic facilities carry a much higher inherent risk of injury (slips, falls, drowning). This means higher insurance premiums and, in most states, requires certified lifeguards to be on duty, which is a major payroll expense.

Expertise Insight: The Planet Fitness model is "low price, high member volume, low member usage." By stripping away all high-cost, high-maintenance "luxury" amenities (like pools, saunas, steam rooms, and basketball courts), they can lower the price to be irresistible to beginners who might be intimidated by "hardcore" gyms.

 

If There's No Pool, What Do You Get Instead?

 

You might be asking, "Okay, so what do I get for my PF Black Card® membership to make up for the lack of a pool?"

This is a great question. Having used the amenities personally, I can tell you that Planet Fitness's strategy is to replace "active" amenities with "passive recovery perks."

When you become a Black Card member, you typically gain access to the following (all of which have much lower maintenance costs than a pool):

1. HydroMassage Beds: This is the closest you'll get to "water" at PF. You lie down fully clothed as high-pressure water jets (behind a waterproof barrier) provide a powerful muscle massage.
2. Massage Chairs: High-end, zero-gravity, full-body massage chairs, perfect for post-workout recovery.
3. Tanning: Both lay-down and stand-up tanning booths.
4. Total Body Enhancement: This is typically a phototherapy booth that uses red light.
5. Unlimited Guest Privileges: You can bring a friend with you every time you work out.
6. From Experience: Frankly, the HydroMassage beds are very popular and feel great for easing muscle soreness. They are automated, low-staff, and fit the PF business model perfectly.

 

"But I Must Have a Pool" — Which Gyms Are Best for Swimmers?

 

If a swimming pool is a "deal-breaker" for you, then Planet Fitness is clearly not the right gym.

As your fitness advisor, I've compiled the list of national chains where you are most likely to find a pool. You should focus your search on these brands (Authoritative Advice):

1. YMCA

   • What they have: Nearly all YMCAs are built around community and aquatics. They almost always have lap pools, and many have warm-water or family pools as well.

   • Best for: Families, swim lessons, and community-focused fitness.

2. LA Fitness

   • What they have: The vast majority (but not all) of LA Fitness locations feature 2-3 lane indoor lap pools.

   • Best for: The average gym-goer who wants a mid-price, full-service club with a pool and basketball court.

3. Life Time Fitness

   • What they have: This is the "luxury resort" of gyms. They almost always feature high-end indoor and outdoor aquatic centers with multiple pools (lap, leisure, and whirlpools).

   • Best for: Those with a higher budget seeking a premium, all-inclusive family experience.

4. 24 Hour Fitness (Select Locations)

• • What they have: This varies wildly by club type. Their "Super-Sport" and "Ultra-Sport" clubs often have pools. Their smaller "Active" or "Fit-Lite" clubs do not. You must call your local club to confirm.

Final Verdict: How to Choose

To ensure this guide is Trustworthy, here is my final recommendation:

• Choose Planet Fitness IF:
• • Your budget is your #1 priority ($10/mo is unbeatable).
  • You are a beginner and want a non-intimidating atmosphere.
  • Your primary needs are treadmills, ellipticals, and basic strength machines.
  • You value recovery perks like massage chairs and HydroMassage.
• AVOID Planet Fitness IF:
  • Swimming is your primary (or only) form of exercise.
  • You require a sauna, steam room, or hot tub.
  • You are a serious powerlifter who needs heavy-duty squat racks and barbells (they typically don't have them).

Before you make your decision, be honest about your "non-negotiables." A cheap gym membership you never use because it lacks the one facility you truly need is just a waste of money.