Planet Fitness Tanning Machines: Types, Rules, Safety, and Results

Achieving a golden, sun-kissed complexion year-round is a popular feature among gym-goers. At Planet Fitness, tanning options rank among the top perks available through the PF Black Card® membership. Rather than paying separate monthly memberships at dedicated tanning salons, members can pair their cardiovascular and strength routines with convenient, on-site tanning equipment.

Whether you are seeking a bronzed baseline before heading on vacation or want to maintain a subtle glow, navigating indoor tanning equipment can feel intimidating if you are a beginner. From understanding machine configurations to following local safety guidelines, getting the most out of your session requires preparation.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about tanning machines at Planet Fitness, including machine varieties, usage protocols, safety considerations, step-by-step procedures, and expert maintenance tips for long-lasting results.

The Essentials: How Tanning Works at Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness provides access to high-grade commercial tanning equipment inside the PF Black Card Spa® area. Before scheduling your first session, it helps to understand the membership prerequisites, check-in requirements, and local policy limits.

Membership Requirements

Tanning privileges are exclusively reserved for PF Black Card® holders. While standard Classic members have full access to workout floors, locker rooms, and group training, the tanning area requires the upgraded tier.

Key Rule: Under federal guidelines and state-level safety laws, Planet Fitness strictly limits members to one tanning session per 24-hour period.

Equipment Check-In Process

Front Desk Check-In: Scan your keytag or digital pass at the reception counter.
Staff Assignment: Request a tanning session with the front desk team.
Eyewear Verification: Staff will ask to inspect your approved UV safety goggles.
Room Allocation: You will be assigned a specific private room equipped with a delay timer (usually 3 to 5 minutes) to prepare before the lamps ignite automatically.

Types of Tanning Machines at Planet Fitness

Depending on the facility layout, Planet Fitness locations typically feature three primary equipment formats:

+-------------------------------------------------------------------+
|               PLANET FITNESS TANNING OPTIONS                       |
+---------------------------------+---------------------------------+
|   LAY-DOWN TANNING BEDS         |   STAND-UP TANNING BOOTHS       |
|   - Lower UV intensity          |   - Higher UV intensity         |
|   - Relaxing, 10-12 min limit   |   - Quick, 9 min limit          |
|   - Gradual color development   |   - 360-degree streak-free color|
+---------------------------------+---------------------------------+
|             SPRAY TAN / HYBRID & AUXILIARY BOOTHS                 |
|   - UV-Free Automated Sprays / Red Light Total Body Enhancement   |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------+

1. Lay-Down Tanning Beds (Horizontal)

Lay-down beds feature acrylic shells with high-output UV lamps surrounding the user from top to bottom.

Session Duration: Max session times typically range from 10 to 12 minutes.
Best For: Members seeking a relaxing session after a strenuous workout.
Pros: Offers a cozy, restful experience; bulbs feature lower wattage than stand-up units, allowing longer exposure with a lower immediate burn risk for fair skin types.
Cons: Pressure points (shoulder blades, tailbone) pressed against the acrylic surface can receive less light, occasionally leading to slight unevenness if you do not shift positions.

2. Stand-Up Tanning Booths (Vertical)

Stand-up booths are vertical, 360-degree enclosures equipped with high-intensity bulbs and overhead handles.

Session Duration: Max session times are shorter, usually capped at 7 to 9 minutes.
Best For: Fast, even, streak-free coverage without physical contact with acrylic surfaces.
Pros: Highly hygienic; eliminates pressure-point spots (underarms, inner arms); ideal for busy schedules.
Cons: High-intensity bulbs deliver strong UV exposure quickly, requiring strict time management to prevent skin redness or irritation.

3. Spray Tanning & Red Light Units

Spray Tanning Booths: Select locations feature automated, UV-free spray tan systems that apply a fine bronzing mist in under two minutes for instant color without UV radiation.
Total Body Enhancement (Beauty Angel): Frequently mistaken for a traditional tanning bed, this machine uses red light therapy (630–660nm) combined with a vibrating plate. It does not emit UV rays and will not tan the skin, but it helps promote skin rejuvenation and muscle warm-up.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Planet Fitness Tanning Bed

To ensure a safe, efficient, and sanitary session, follow this step-by-step workflow:

1.Pre-Session Preparation:At Home.

Exfoliate your skin using a gentle scrub 12 to 24 hours before tanning. Avoid applying heavy oil-based perfumes, deodorants, or outdoor sunscreens right before your session.

2.Check-In & Room Entry:At Reception.

Present your PF Black Card®, show your eyewear to the staff, request your preferred equipment type, and enter the assigned private lockable booth.

3.Application & Attire:3-5 Min Timer.

Undress fully or wear a swimsuit based on personal preference. Apply an indoor-certified tanning lotion evenly across your body. Put on certified UV protective eyewear.

4.Tanning Session:3-12 Minutes.

Step into the booth or lie down in the bed. Press the main START button on the control interface if the lamps have not ignited automatically. Adjust fan controls for comfort.

5.Post-Session Clean-Up:Immediate.

When the lamps shut off, put on your clothes and use the provided sanitizing spray and microfiber towel to thoroughly wipe down the bed or handles for the next member.

Essential Tanning Prep and Aftercare Tips

Indoor tanning requires careful skincare management before, during, and after UV exposure.

Indoor Lotion vs. Outdoor Sunscreen

Indoor Tanning Accelerators: Specifically formulated for indoor bulbs, these lotions hydrate the skin, boost melanin production, and contain acrylic-safe ingredients.
Avoid Outdoor Sunblock/Oils: Products containing mineral oil, petrolatum, or broad-spectrum SPF block intended tanning rays and can permanently damage machine acrylic surfaces.

Aftercare for Long-Lasting Color

Hydrate Internally: Drink plenty of water before and after your session to keep skin plump and prevent dryness.
Moisturize Daily: Apply alcohol-free, deeply hydrating lotion after showering to maintain smooth skin and extend your color.
Space Out Sessions: Start slowly with short intervals (e.g., 3–4 minutes for beginners) and allow at least 48 hours between sessions so melanin can develop naturally without burning.

Safety Guidelines, Rules, and Best Practices

Indoor UV radiation requires sensible handling to minimize health risks such as premature aging and skin damage.

Rule / Parameter	Policy / Recommendation	Why It Matters
Eyewear Requirement	Must wear FDA-compliant goggles.	Closing eyes is insufficient; UV light penetrates eyelids and causes corneal damage.
24-Hour Restriction	1 session per 24 hours max.	Prevents cellular overexposure and skin tissue damage.
Sanitation Protocol	Wipe equipment before and after use.	Maintains hygienic standards across shared gym facilities.
Age Limits	18+ in most jurisdictions.	Complies with local and federal minor-protection laws.

Should You Tan Before or After a Workout?

A common question among fitness enthusiasts is how to sequence tanning around workouts.

Tanning After a Workout (Recommended)

Better Absorption: Post-workout circulation and open pores allow moisturizers and accelerators to absorb efficiently.
Muscle Relaxation: The gentle warmth of lay-down beds helps soothe tired muscles following resistance or cardio training.

Tanning Before a Workout

Sweat Risk: Heavy sweating during exercise immediately after tanning can wash off accelerators and dry out delicate skin tissue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are tanning beds included with the standard Planet Fitness membership?

No. Tanning amenities are exclusively available to PF Black Card® members. Basic Classic membership tiers do not include access to the spa amenities.

2. Do I need to bring my own goggles and lotion to Planet Fitness?

Yes. While Planet Fitness provides towels and cleaning solutions for equipment maintenance, members must supply their own FDA-approved eye protection and indoor-certified tanning lotion. Most front desks sell approved goggles if needed.

3. How long should a beginner stay in a Planet Fitness tanning machine?

Beginners—especially those with fair skin—should start with 2 to 4 minutes in a stand-up booth or 4 to 5 minutes in a lay-down bed. Gradually increase session length by 1-minute increments over several weeks as skin adapts.

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

Total Body Enhancement uses red light therapy (non-UV light) paired with a vibrating footplate for muscle warm-up and skin conditioning. It does not produce a tan. Tanning beds emit UV rays specifically designed to darken skin pigment.

5. Can I tan naked at Planet Fitness?

Yes, because tanning rooms are private, lockable single-occupancy spaces. Members can choose to tan fully nude for seam-free coverage or wear a swimsuit.

6. How often can I use the tanning machines at Planet Fitness?

By policy and safety regulation, members may tan once every 24 hours. However, dermatologists recommend limiting sessions to 2–3 times per week to reduce UV-related skin damage.

For a visual walkthrough of the PF Black Card Spa setup and amenities, watch this video guide on Planet Fitness Spa Amenities Explained.

This video helps demonstrate how to navigate and operate the Black Card recovery and spa equipment at Planet Fitness locations.

Planet Fitness Tanning Machines: Types, Rules, Safety, and Results