Planet Fitness Tanning: Everything You Need to Know

In the modern fitness landscape, convenience is paramount. Gym-goers increasingly prefer facilities where they can combine cardiovascular training, resistance exercises, and personal wellness into a single visit. Planet Fitness has successfully capitalized on this demand by positioning itself not merely as a gym, but as an all-inclusive health and wellness hub.

Among the various amenities offered by the franchise, indoor tanning remains one of the most widely utilized privileges available through their premium tier membership. For members looking to maintain a bronze complexion year-round without subscribing to separate tanning salon packages, the convenience of combining a workout with a tanning session is unmatched.

However, navigating the world of indoor tanning equipment—ranging from traditional ultraviolet (UV) beds to specialized light therapy booths—requires an understanding of equipment types, operational rules, safety protocols, and membership restrictions. This comprehensive guide provides an exhaustive breakdown of tanning machines at Planet Fitness, giving you the knowledge required to use these facilities safely and effectively.

PF Black Card Access: Who Can Use the Tanning Amenities?

Before stepping into a tanning suite at Planet Fitness, it is important to understand the membership framework governing access to these services.

Planet Fitness operates on a multi-tiered membership model:

• Classic Membership: Grants access to standard gym equipment (cardio machines, free weights, and weight machines) at a single location. It does not include access to premium amenities such as massage chairs, hydromassage, or tanning booths.

• PF Black Card Membership: Unlocks global franchise access, guest privileges, and full access to the “Black Card Spa” amenities. Tanning services fall under this umbrella.

+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|                       PLANET FITNESS MEMBERSHIP                       |
+------------------------------------+----------------------------------+
|          Classic Member            |        PF Black Card Member      |
+------------------------------------+----------------------------------+
|  - Full Workout Floor Access       |  - Full Workout Floor Access     |
|  - Single Home Location            |  - Access to Any PF Worldwide    |
|  - Standard Gym Amenities          |  - Hydromassage & Massage Chairs |
|                                    |  - Indoor Tanning Machines       |
|                                    |  - Total Body Enhancement (RLT)  |
|                                    |  - Bring a Guest Any Time        |
+------------------------------------+----------------------------------+

Age Restrictions and State Laws

While Planet Fitness allows members aged 13–17 to join with parental consent, age limits for tanning equipment are strictly enforced according to state and federal regulations. In many jurisdictions across the United States and Canada, minors under the age of 18 are prohibited by law from using UV tanning equipment, regardless of parental permission. Members must present valid government-issued identification to front desk staff to confirm eligibility before their first session.

Types of Tanning Machines at Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness locations generally equip their spa zones with two primary styles of UV tanning machines, along with a distinct non-UV light therapy booth that is frequently mistaken for a tanning unit. Equipment manufacturers may vary depending on the franchise owner, but most facilities feature machines from established commercial brands such as Ergoline or Soltron.

                              PLANET FITNESS SPA EQUIPMENT
                                           |
        +----------------------------------+----------------------------------+
        |                                                                     |
   [ UV Tanning ]                                                  [ Non-UV Therapy ]
        |                                                                     |
  +-----+-----------------+                                                   |
  |                       |                                                   |
Lay-Down Beds     Stand-Up Booths                                Total Body Enhancement
(Level 1/2)        (High-Intensity)                                 (Red Light + Vibration)

1. Lay-Down Tanning Beds

Lay-down beds are the classic choice for indoor tanning enthusiasts seeking a relaxing session.

• Mechanism & Light Spectrum: These beds feature an acrylic upper canopy and a contoured lower acrylic sheet. A series of long tubular lamps surround the user, emitting a balanced combination of UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin layers to darken existing melanin, while UVB rays stimulate the production of new melanin in the upper epidermal layers.

• Ergonomics and Comfort: Lay-down beds at Planet Fitness are designed for comfort after an intense workout. They feature integrated cooling fans, headrests, and multi-channel sound systems.

• Session Duration: Session times typically range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the machine’s intensity rating and your skin type. Beginners are usually advised to start with 3 to 5 minutes to test skin tolerance.

2. Stand-Up Tanning Booths (Vertical Tanning)

Stand-up booths (also referred to as vertical tanning units or stand-up hexes) offer a faster, more uniform alternative to traditional lay-down beds.

• Coverage and Efficiency: Because the user stands in the center of a 360-degree cylindrical lamp array, there are no physical pressure points where skin presses against an acrylic surface. This design eliminates the pale spots that can occur on the shoulder blades or lower back when using a lay-down bed. Most units include overhead handrails, allowing users to raise their arms to ensure even exposure along the inner arms and torso sides.

• High-Intensity Bulbs: Stand-up booths typically feature higher-wattage bulbs or a higher percentage of UVB light compared to lay-down models. Consequently, session times are significantly shorter, usually capped at 9 to 12 minutes.

3. Total Body Enhancement (Beauty Angel) – Not a UV Tanning Machine

A common source of confusion among new Planet Fitness members is the Total Body Enhancement unit (frequently manufactured by Beauty Angel). It is important to clarify that this machine does not tan your skin.

+-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------+
|               UV TANNING BEDS vs. TOTAL BODY ENHANCEMENT (BEAUTY ANGEL)          |
+--------------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Feature                  | UV Tanning Beds (Lay-Down / Stand-Up)                  |
+--------------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Light Technology         | Ultraviolet Rays (UVA & UVB)                           |
| Primary Purpose          | Skin Pigmentation / Darkening                          |
| Skin Exposure Impact     | Increases Melanin; Risks Sunburn / UV Damage           |
| Secondary Features       | Cooling Fans, Facial Lamps                             |
| Session Limits           | Max 10-20 mins; Strictly Once per 24 Hours             |
+--------------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Feature                  | Total Body Enhancement (Beauty Angel)                  |
+--------------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+
| Light Technology         | Red Light Therapy (620nm–700nm Visible Wavelengths)    |
| Primary Purpose          | Collagen Production, Skin Texture, Muscle Recovery     |
| Skin Exposure Impact     | Non-UV, Zero Tanning; Gentle Warming                   |
| Secondary Features       | Vibra-Shape Vibrating Footplate                        |
| Session Limits           | Standard 12-Minute Program; Non-Burning Wavelengths    |
+--------------------------+--------------------------------------------------------+

• Red Light Therapy: Total Body Enhancement utilizes non-UV red light technology operating in the ~620nm–700nm wavelength spectrum. This visible light reaches the epidermal layers to stimulate cellular energy (ATP production), encourage collagen synthesis, and promote improved blood circulation.

• Vibration Plate Integration: The unit includes a motorized platform (Vibra-Shape technology). As red light surrounds the user, the footplate vibrates at varying frequencies to stimulate muscle tone, enhance lymphatic drainage, and relieve post-exercise soreness.

Essential Rules, Regulations, and Etiquette

To maintain hygiene standards and protect member safety, Planet Fitness enforces strict policies around its tanning equipment.

                       PLANET FITNESS TANNING PROTOCOL
                       
  [ 1. Check-In ]  --->  [ 2. Preparation ]  --->  [ 3. The Session ]  --->  [ 4. Clean-Up ]
  - Front desk scan      - Show goggles            - Max time set            - Spray solution
  - Assigned room        - Apply lotion            - Secure door             - Wipe surfaces
  - 24-hr timer check    - Strip down              - Eye protection ON       - Trash towels

1. The 24-Hour Rule

Under federal FDA guidelines and corporate policy, members are permitted to use UV tanning equipment only once every 24 hours. The computerized check-in system tracks session timestamps; if you tanned at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, the system will prevent you from booking a session before 3:01 PM on Wednesday.

2. Mandatory Protective Eyewear

Closing your eyes or placing a towel over your face is not adequate protection against intense UV radiation. The eyelids are too thin to block ultraviolet rays, and exposure without specialized eyewear can lead to painful corneal burns, night blindness, and long-term ocular damage like cataracts.

• Staff Verification: Planet Fitness staff are required to verify that you have approved tanning goggles before assigning a room.

• Goggles Availability: If you do not own protective eyewear, UV-blocking goggles or single-use disposable eye shields can be purchased at the front desk.

3. Cleaning and Sanitation Protocols

While staff members perform routine sanitization throughout the day, primary hygiene rests on individual user etiquette:

• Inside every tanning room, you will find a spray bottle containing a hospital-grade disinfectant cleaner along with paper towels.

• Before Use: Wipe down the acrylic bed or stand-up handles if desired.

• After Use: Spray down all touched surfaces—including the acrylic sheet, headrest, and control panel—and wipe them clean for the next user.

How to Prepare for a Tanning Session: Step-by-Step

Following a structured preparation routine ensures even pigmentation while minimizing skin stress.

Step 1: Exfoliate Your Skin (24 Hours Prior)

Dead skin cells can absorb light unevenly, leading to a splotchy tan. Use an exfoliating scrub or body brush in the shower the day before your session to create a smooth surface.

Step 2: Avoid Makeup and Outdoor Sunscreens

Remove all makeup, perfumes, deodorants, and body lotions before entering the tanning machine. Certain cosmetic ingredients contain blockages that produce uneven results, while others contain photo-reactive chemicals that cause skin rashes or dark spots when exposed to UV light.

Important: Do not use outdoor sunscreens containing SPF in indoor tanning beds. These formulations are designed for sunlight and can break down or cloud the acrylic panels over time.

Step 3: Use an Approved Indoor Tanning Accelerator

Indoor tanning lotions are specifically formulated to hydrate the skin, assist light absorption, and accelerate melanin production without damaging machine acrylics. Apply lotion evenly right before stepping into the booth.

Step 4: Time Your Session Conservatively

If you have fair skin or have not exposed your skin to UV rays recently, start with conservative session durations.

• Beginners: 3 to 5 minutes.

• Intermediate: 6 to 8 minutes.

• Maintenance: 10 to 12 minutes (or machine maximum).

Avoid pushing session lengths to the maximum limit too early; building base coloration gradually prevents redness and peeling.

Health and Safety Considerations

While indoor tanning remains popular, users must consider the health factors associated with artificial UV exposure.

+------------------------------------------------------------------------------------+
|                       UV TANNING: RISKS & MITIGATION STRATEGIES                    |
+-------------------------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| Risk Factor                   | Mitigation Strategy                                |
+-------------------------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| Premature Photoaging          | Keep sessions brief; moisturize after sessions.    |
| Photokeratitis / Eye Damage   | Wear certified FDA-compliant goggles at all times. |
| Skin Erythema (Sunburn)       | Increase exposure gradually; never burn intentionally.|
| Photosensitive Reactions      | Check medications for UV sensitivity warnings.     |
+-------------------------------+----------------------------------------------------+

Understanding UV Radiation Risks

The ultraviolet radiation emitted by indoor tanning beds mimics natural sunlight. Overexposure to UVA and UVB rays contributes to premature skin aging (loss of elasticity, fine lines, and age spots) and increases the long-term risk of skin malignancies, including melanoma.

Photosensitizing Medications

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications significantly increase skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light, leading to severe burns in a fraction of the normal exposure time. Avoid UV tanning if you are taking:

• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones)

• Acne treatments containing isotretinoin or topical retinoids

• Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., naproxen)

• Certain antihistamines or diuretic blood pressure medications

Always review medication inserts or consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding photosensitivity side effects before using UV equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is tanning included in the standard Planet Fitness membership?

No. Indoor tanning amenities are reserved exclusively for PF Black Card members. Standard Classic membership holders do not have access to the Black Card Spa area, where the tanning beds, massage chairs, and Total Body Enhancement machines are located.

2. Can I use the tanning machines at Planet Fitness every day?

No. Planet Fitness strictly enforces a 24-hour waiting period between UV tanning sessions, in accordance with FDA safety guidelines. You cannot tan multiple times within a single calendar day or within 24 hours of your previous session timestamp.

3. What should I wear during my tanning session?

Because tanning rooms at Planet Fitness are fully private with locked doors, attire choice is at your discretion. Many members tan completely nude to avoid tan lines, while others choose swimsuits or underwear. Shoes must be removed before entering any tanning booth or stand-up unit.

4. What is the difference between Total Body Enhancement and a tanning bed?

Total Body Enhancement uses red light therapy (~620nm–700nm) combined with a vibrating footplate to support skin elasticity, collagen production, and muscle recovery. It emits no UV radiation and will not darken your skin. Tanning beds emit UVA and UVB rays to alter skin pigmentation.

5. Do I need to bring my own eye protection?

Yes, protective UV eyewear is mandatory for all UV tanning sessions. Planet Fitness staff members are required to confirm you have goggles before activating the machine. If you do not bring your own, approved eye protection can be purchased at the front desk.

6. Do Planet Fitness tanning beds have self-timers?

Yes. When you check in at the front desk, the staff member will program your requested time into a central control console. Once inside the private room, you have a 3- to 5-minute grace period to prepare before the bed turns on automatically. You can also start the session manually using the buttons on the bed’s control panel.

Summary Checklist for Planet Fitness Tanning

BEFORE YOUR SESSION:
[ ] Upgrade to or verify PF Black Card membership status
[ ] Exfoliate skin 24 hours in advance
[ ] Ensure at least 24 hours have elapsed since your last session
[ ] Pack FDA-compliant protective goggles and indoor tanning lotion
[ ] Cleanse skin of all makeup, perfumes, and heavy oils

DURING YOUR SESSION:
[ ] Lock the private tanning room door
[ ] Apply indoor tanning lotion evenly
[ ] Put on protective eyewear before starting the lamps
[ ] Keep knees slightly bent (if using stand-up or red light units)

AFTER YOUR SESSION:
[ ] Wipe down all machine acrylics and contact handles using provided disinfectant
[ ] Apply an post-tan moisturizer to preserve skin hydration
[ ] Rehydrate by drinking water