If you’re a Planet Fitness member or thinking about joining, you might be wondering what kind of treadmills does planet fitness have available for member use. It’s a smart question, as the treadmill is often the most popular piece of cardio equipment in any gym. Knowing what to expect can help you plan your workouts and feel confident when you walk in.
Planet Fitness is famous for its Judgement Free Zone and commitment to providing a non-intimidating environment. This philosophy extends to their equipment selection. They choose machines that are reliable, user-friendly, and can handle constant use from members of all fitness levels. Let’s take a close look at the treadmills you’ll find ready for your next run or walk.
What Kind Of Treadmills Does Planet Fitness Have
Across nearly all Planet Fitness locations, you will find a consistent brand of treadmill: Matrix. Specifically, the club standard is the Matrix T7xe and T5xe models. These are commercial-grade treadmills designed for high-traffic gym environments, meaning they are built to last and offer a smooth, stable experience.
You might see some variation in older clubs or during equipment refreshes, but the Matrix line is the primary treadmill you can count on. They are known for their durability and straightforward functionality, which aligns perfectly with Planet Fitness’s goal of making fitness accessible for everyone.
Key Features of Planet Fitness Treadmills
So, what makes these Matrix treadmills good for your workout? Here are the main features you’ll want to know about:
- Solid Construction: They have a heavy-duty frame that minimizes shaking, even at higher speeds. This provides a secure and comfortable feel.
- Spacious Belt: The running surface is wide and long enough for comfortable strides, whether you’re walking or sprinting.
- User-Friendly Console: The display is clear and easy to read. It shows your time, distance, speed, incline, and calories burned.
- Built-In Programs: You’ll find a selection of preset workouts that automatically adjust speed and incline to keep your routine interesting.
- Quick-Touch Speed & Incline Buttons: These let you jump to a specific speed or incline level with one press, which is very convenient.
- Device Holder & Cooling Fan: A place to prop up your phone or tablet and a small fan to help keep you cool during your session.
How to Use the Planet Fitness Treadmill: A Simple Guide
If you’re new to the gym or just new to this model, here’s a quick step-by-step to get you started safely.
- Start by Mounting Safely: Straddle the belt with your feet on the side rails. Never start with your feet on the stationary belt.
- Press the Quick Start: Look for the large green “Quick Start” button. Press it to begin a manual workout. The belt will start moving at a very slow pace, usually around 1 mph.
- Step Onto the Belt: Carefully place your feet on the moving belt and begin walking.
- Adjust Your Speed: Use the up and down arrow keys or the quick-touch buttons to find your desired walking or running speed.
- Adjust Your Incline: Use the incline buttons to simulate walking or running uphill. A zero incline is flat ground.
- Select a Program (Optional): If you want a guided workout, press the “Program” button and scroll through the options using the arrow keys. Select one and follow the prompts.
- Cool Down Properly: When finished, gradually reduce your speed and incline to a slow walk for 2-3 minutes. This helps your heart rate come down safely.
- Stop and Dismount: Press the red “Stop” button. Wait for the belt to come to a complete stop before stepping off onto the side rails.
Making the Most of Your Treadmill Time
Just walking or running is great, but you can get more from your cardio session. Try incorporating interval training. For example, after a 5-minute warm-up, alternate between 1 minute of faster running and 2 minutes of recovery walking. Repeat this for 20 minutes.
Don’t forget about the power of incline. Even at a slower speed, walking on an incline of 5-10% can significantly boost your heart rate and strengthen your glutes and legs. It’s a fantastic low-impact option.
Planet Fitness Treadmill Rules and Etiquette
To keep things pleasant for all members, there’s some common gym etiquette to follow on the treadmill deck.
- Time Limits: During peak hours, Planet Fitness enforces a 30-minute time limit on cardio machines if others are waiting. Be mindful of your surroundings.
- Clean Your Machine: Always use the provided disinfectant spray and paper towels to wipe down the console, handrails, and belt edges after you finish.
- Personal Space: Avoid dramatically swinging your arms into the space of the person next to you. It can be distracting and unsafe.
- Noise Level: Keep your personal audio at a level where it doesn’t leak from your headphones. Not everyone wants to listen to your podcast.
Comparing to Other Gym Treadmills
You might be curious how Planet Fitness treadmills stack up against those at other gym chains. The Matrix T7xe is a solid mid-tier commercial treadmill. It may not have the massive touchscreens or extensive virtual training found on premium brands like Life Fitness or Woodway at higher-end clubs, but it gets the job done reliably.
For the monthly fee, the quality is excellent. They are more robust and offer more features than basic home treadmills. The focus is on functionality and durability over high-tech entertainment, which keeps membership costs low for everyone.
What If a Treadmill is Out of Order?
With heavy use, machines occasionally break down. If you encounter a treadmill with an “Out of Order” sign, please respect it and choose another one. You can politely inform the front desk staff on your way out so they can schedule a repair. The maintenance teams work hard to keep all equipment in good working order.
Accessibility and Modifications
Planet Fitness treadmills are designed to be accessible. The controls are large and clearly labeled. For members who may need stability, the handrails are always available. Remember, you can always modify any workout. There is no rule that says you have to run. A brisk walk at an incline is an incredibly effective workout that’s easier on the joints.
If you have specific concerns about using the equipment, the staff at the front desk can provide a basic orientation. They can show you how to start and stop the machine safely.
Integrating Treadmill Workouts into Your Routine
The treadmill shouldn’t be your only exercise, but it’s a fantastic tool. Here’s how to fit it into a balanced week:
- Cardio Days: Dedicate 2-3 days per week to 20-30 minutes of steady-paced walking or running.
- Warm-Up: Use 5-10 minutes on the treadmill at a slow pace to warm up before lifting weights.
- Cool-Down: Similarly, a 5-minute slow walk after strength training helps with recovery.
- Active Recovery: On your off days from intense training, a gentle 20-minute walk can aid muscle repair.
Mixing your treadmill workouts with the strength machines and free weights at Planet Fitness creates a well-rounded fitness plan. This approach builds endurance, strength, and overall health.
A Note on Safety and Listening to Your Body
Always start your session gradually. Jumping on a fast-moving belt is a common cause of gym injuries. Let your body adjust. If you feel dizzy, overly short of breath, or experience pain, slow down or stop immediately. It’s okay to hold onto the handrails if you need balance, but try not to lean on them constantly, as it can alter your posture and reduce the workout’s effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are the treadmills at Planet Fitness good for running?
Yes, absolutely. The Matrix T7xe models have a powerful motor and a long belt deck suitable for running at various speeds. They are a favorite for both joggers and regular runners.
Do Planet Fitness treadmills have TVs or screens?
Most do not have built-in TVs. However, many clubs have multiple wall-mounted televisions around the cardio area. You can use the integrated audio jack or Bluetooth to listen to the TV audio through your headphones by tuning to the correct channel on the treadmill console.
What is the maximum speed and incline?
The Matrix T7xe treadmill typically goes up to 12 miles per hour and offers an incline up to 15%. This is more than sufficient for high-intensity interval training and steep hill workouts.
Can I use the treadmills if I’m not a member?
No, treadmill use is for Planet Fitness members only. Guests can tour the club but cannot use equipment without a membership or a paid day pass, if offered by that specific location.
Are the treadmills the same in every Planet Fitness?
For the most part, yes. The company strives for consistency. You will find the same Matrix treadmills in nearly every location, so you’ll know exactly what to expect no matter which club you visit.
In conclusion, Planet Fitness provides high-quality, commercial-grade Matrix treadmills that are perfect for members of any ability. They are built for durability and offer all the essential features you need for an effective walk, jog, or run. By understanding how to use them properly and following simple gym etiquette, you can make the treadmill a cornerstone of your fitness journey. So next time you head to the gym, you can step on with confidence and put those miles in.