Navigating Your Fitness Career: How to Get a Job at Planet Fitness

man working out on a treadmill

Planet Fitness, since its inception, has been dedicated to creating an environment where anyone, regardless of their fitness level, can feel at home. And this approach extends not just to their members but to their employees as well. The company strives to nurture a workspace that promotes growth and encourages free-flowing ideas. 

If this kind of work environment excites you, working at Planet Fitness might just be the right career role for you. 

In this article, we’ll explore the different roles, qualities that can give you an edge, the application process, as well as the benefits of the job, and more. I aim to help equip you with all the information you need and maybe even inspire you to explore a career with Planet Fitness.

What Jobs do They Offer at Planet Fitness?

To get started understanding how to get a job at Planet Fitness, let’s talk about what kinds of jobs you can get there. 

Planet Fitness opens up a whole new world of career opportunities, regardless of where you are in your professional journey. 

From entry-level roles, like a front desk associate greeting gym-goers with a friendly attitude, to fitness trainers who motivate people to achieve their fitness goals, and right up to managerial positions, overseeing the smooth operation of the entire gym — there’s truly a role for everyone. Even if your passion lies behind the scenes, Planet Fitness offers a myriad of support roles, such as marketing or human resources, embedded in its corporate structure. 

No matter which role you’re drawn to, there’s one commonality – each employee at Planet Fitness forms an integral part of an inclusive community, a ‘Judgement Free Zone’ that champions the ethos of acceptance and positivity. 

Let’s check out a few of the different kinds of positions you can get at Planet Fitness. 

Entry-Level Roles

Starting with entry-level roles these are ideal for those who are just kick-starting their career or looking for a part-time job. Positions such as Member Services Representative fall into this category. 

This role basically serves as a cashier for the establishment, helping welcome customers when they walk in the door and handling any questions clients may have.

As a Member Services Representative, you would be the friendly face that greets members and guests, registers new members, and provides excellent customer service. 

Fitness Trainer Roles

For fitness enthusiasts, there are Fitness Trainer roles. In these roles, you’re expected to conduct group fitness classes, provide instruction in using the equipment, and ensure that members follow safety guidelines. This role is the perfect fit if you have a passion for fitness and love interacting with people.

Management Roles

Management roles can range from Assistant Manager and Club Manager to even Multi-Club General Manager. In these roles, you would oversee club operations and ensure a positive and safe environment for club members. For example, as a Club Manager, your duties include recruiting, training, and motivating your team, managing club operations, and driving membership sales.

Maintenance Staff

Last but not least, Planet Fitness also offers support roles like Custodian or Maintenance Staff. These roles play a crucial part in maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the club. If you’re someone who likes working behind the scenes and ensuring that everything runs smoothly, this might be an excellent fit for you.

What Qualities Does Planet Fitness Look For In Its Employees?

Planet Fitness seeks individuals who possess certain key qualities that align with the ethos and culture of the company. They encourage those with a passion for fitness and well-being to join their ranks, considering this an indispensable quality. 

To thrive at Planet Fitness, being a fitness enthusiast is a big plus, but also having a customer-centric mindset, ability to work in a team, willingness to adapt and change, and potent leadership skills (particularly for those seeking management roles) will make you an ideal candidate. 

However, those aren’t the only skills you’ll need if you want to work for this company. Let’s go over a few other skills this potential employer is looking for. 

Passion for Fitness

Planet Fitness is all about encouraging people to live active, healthier lives. As such, they love to see a genuine passion for fitness in their job candidates – a passion you might demonstrate through personal fitness pursuits, a commitment to healthy living, or prior experience in the fitness industry.

Customer-Service Focus

Working with people is at the heart of every role at Planet Fitness, from the front desk helpers to the personal trainers. They look for individuals who truly understand the importance of providing excellent service to their customers. They want to see a natural flair for communication, empathy, and a strong desire to help others achieve their fitness goals.

Teamwork

No one operates alone at Planet Fitness. As an employee, you’ll be expected to collaborate with your colleagues, bringing a positive and cooperative attitude to work each day. Tell them about your previous teamwork experiences, how you’ve contributed, and how you leveraged the combined strength of a team to achieve results.

Flexibility and Adaptability

The world of fitness is exciting because it’s always evolving. New exercise techniques, equipment, and health advice mean you’ll always be learning. Show them that you’re open to new ideas and that you’re not just willing but eager to adapt to change.

Leadership Skills

For those seeking management positions, leadership is a critical quality. At Planet Fitness, they look for leaders who can inspire their teams, set a strong example, and drive everyone toward the company’s goals. 

What are the Requirements to Work at Planet Fitness?

Besides having key skills, you’ll also need to meet a few essential requirements to work at this company. 

The requirements can vary a bit depending on which role you apply for. However, in general, they’ll involve things like education and experience. 

Let’s check out a few of the requirements to work at Planet Fitness. 

Minimum Age Requirement

One of the most basic requirements to work at Planet Fitness is that you need to be at least 18 years old. Aspiring to maintain a safe and secure environment for its clients, the gym prioritizes hiring adults who can add a level of maturity and professionalism to the team.

Remember, even though some states may allow workers to get a job at 15 or 16, Planet Fitness has its own policies surrounding age. So, be sure to keep this in mind when applying for a position here. 

Education Requirements

The level of education required can significantly vary depending on the role you’re applying for. For entry-level positions such as Member Services Representative or Custodian, the minimum requirement is usually a high school diploma or equivalent. 

Meanwhile, if you’re eyeing a role as a Fitness Trainer, you might need a degree or certification in a relevant field, such as Physical Education, Sports Science, or a related discipline, to authenticate your knowledge and expertise.

Some clubs will let you get your certification on the job, however, so be sure to read the fine print on the job application. 

Experience Requirements

While the company welcomes fresh talent, certain roles demand some level of work experience. For example, if you’re applying for a job as a Fitness Trainer, you’d probably need at least a year or two of experience in a similar role. If you’re targeting managerial roles, several years of managerial experience, preferably in the fitness or hospitality field, could be indispensable.

Physical and Personal Requirements

Keep in mind that working at Planet Fitness isn’t just about meeting educational or age requirements. It also involves embodying a certain spirit and physicality that aligns with the gym’s culture. 

For instance, since most roles involve interaction with gym-goers, they require exceptional communication and customer service skills. After all, at Planet Fitness, you’re not merely an employee but part of a community focused on creating a welcoming, non-intimidating environment for everyone.

Moreover, some roles might require physical capability, such as being able to stand for long periods, lift heavy weights, or conduct high-intensity training sessions. This aspect can be rewarding for some, as it not only allows you to stay fit but also lets you be a literal example of the health benefits possible through regular workouts at Planet Fitness.

How Do I Apply for a Job at Planet Fitness?

If you’re considering becoming part of the Planet Fitness team, here’s the good news – the application process is straightforward and user-friendly. The first step begins with deciding where you want to apply: online or in-person.

Let’s take a look at the steps you should take if you want to apply for a job at Planet Fitness. 

Applying Through the Company Website

Planet Fitness has made the online application process quite straightforward with its user-friendly job portal. You’ll find available openings listed on the site, categorized by job title, location, and department—making your job hunting easier.

Simply visit the Planet Fitness career website, search for available positions in your desired location, and make a selection that fits your interests and qualifications. After clicking on your chosen job opening, you’ll find the job description and requirements. If you believe it’s the right fit, go ahead and hit the ‘Apply’ button.

You’ll be asked to create an account—that’s if it’s your first time using the platform. Fill out the application form. Most importantly, make sure to thoroughly read each question before providing your answers.

Applying In-person 

If you prefer a more personal touch, you also have the option to walk into your local Planet Fitness branch and hand in your application physically. This gives you the benefit of possibly meeting some of the staff, getting a feel for the environment, and potentially increasing your chances of being remembered when it comes time for the hiring decision.

What is the Hiring Process Like at Planet Fitness?

When it comes to the hiring process of any job, a common concern is: what should I expect? To help you navigate the hiring process, I’ve put together a quick guide on what to expect at Planet Fitness. 

Remember, each Planet Fitness location is unique; hence the hiring process may vary slightly between branches.

Submitting an Application

You can apply either online via the company website or in person at one of their locations by submitting a resume and cover letter.

Whether you opt to apply online or in person, a crucial part of your application is your resume and cover letter. For your resume, highlight your relevant skills and past experiences that make you a fitting candidate for the position you’re applying for. 

As for the cover letter, personalize it to show your genuine interest in working at Planet Fitness. Highlight how you can add value to their team and align with the company’s mission. 

You may also need to fill out an application specific to the job you’re applying for. If so, this will be provided to you at the facility or online when applying. 

Reviewing Stage

Once you’ve submitted your application, keep in mind that patience is key. It’s normal for the reviewing process to take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the position and the number of applicants. If your application piques their interest, congratulations—you’ll be ready to move to the interview phase! 

The Interview

The next step of the process, the interview stage, is generally one-on-one and in-person. Occasionally, a group interview may also be conducted. 

This is an opportunity for both sides to ensure it’s a good fit. For Planet Fitness, it’s a chance to gauge your understanding of the company’s culture, your passion for fitness, and your skillset. 

At the same time, for you, it’s your chance to inquire about the company and role and decide whether it’s a journey you want to embark on. 

Job Offer and Final Checks

After a successful interview, some job seekers may be offered a position immediately, and others within a few days. Be aware that Planet Fitness, like many companies, will conduct a background check before finalizing the contract. 

Finally, once you have cleared the background check and accepted the offer, the onboarding process begins. This typically includes job training to familiarize yourself with the company policies and specific responsibilities of your role.

What are Questions Asked During a Planet Fitness Job Interview?

Whether you’re applying for a frontline role as a fitness instructor or aiming for a position in management at Planet Fitness, you’ll have to do an interview. 

The interview process is where you get to really highlight your skills, present your personality, and demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the Planet Fitness brand. It’s crucial to be prepared for any questions that might come your way. 

The best way to succeed in a Planet Fitness interview is to be authentic, positive and prepared. Demonstrate your skills and experience confidently, and remember, you’re also interviewing them to make sure it’s a good fit for you.

However, you can also give yourself a head start by getting familiar with some common interview questions. Let’s go over a few of these.

Standard Interview Questions 

The hiring manager is likely to start with some of the standard interview questions that you’re likely to encounter in any job interview. These questions are more about getting to know you as a person. Examples include:

  • Tell me about yourself: To answer this question, introduce yourself by focusing on your educational background, work experience, and briefly mention your interests, especially those related to fitness.
  • What makes you interested in working at Planet Fitness: Here, focus on how the company’s values align with your personal and professional goals. 

Role-specific Interview Questions

Some interview questions will vary depending on the exact role you’re applying for. 

For a fitness instructor position, you might be asked: “Can you describe your experience with creating and implementing fitness programs?”. Elaborate on your experiences, achievements, and any challenges you faced and how you tackled them.

For a customer service representative, they might inquire: “Describe a situation where you had to handle a difficult customer and how you resolved it?”. Be honest and detailed in your answer, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and how you maintain professionalism under pressure.

Behavioral Interview Questions

You may also be asked behavioral interview questions. The goal of these questions is to gauge how you react in certain situations. For example, they might ask:

 “Have you ever had to adapt to a sudden change in your job? Can you give an example?”

Your response should show your adaptability and your ability to handle changes as they occur. 

You can use the STAR interview method when answering this question to help you provide a clear and detailed response.

How Much is the Salary of an Employee at Planet Fitness?

Money matters, doesn’t it? We all want a career that fulfills us not only emotionally but also financially. 

To help you make sure you’re getting a financially fulfilling role at Planet Fitness, it pays to know what kinds of salary expectations you should have.

While these figures provide a general idea of what you might expect, it’s important to note that each Planet Fitness franchise is independently owned and operated, meaning pay rates and benefits may differ slightly from one location to another.

Pay Scale for Entry-Level Roles

As a beginner stepping into the work sphere, the initial pay may not be extravagant but certainly substantial to thrive. For instance, entry-level positions, such as a Member Services Representative at Planet Fitness, can expect to make around $15 per hour. This number can vary depending on your location and the specific demands of the job.

Earning Potential for Fitness Roles

As a fitness trainer, your paycheck can be more substantial. If you have the requisite qualifications and passion for fitness, you could earn an average of $25 per hour as a Fitness Trainer. Remember, you can always earn more in this role by gaining more certificates or becoming specialized in a certain area of fitness.

Salaries for Management Positions 

For those who aspire to leadership positions, Planet Fitness rewards managerial roles accordingly. As an Assistant Manager, one can expect to earn around $33,000 to $49,000 annually

And if you aim to become a Club Manager, your salary could range from $50,000 to $80,000 a year. In addition to the base salary, managers may also be eligible for bonuses based on the performance of their club.

Factors Affecting Pay 

Several factors can influence these payment scales, including but not limited to

  • your experience
  • the location of the gym
  • the hours you work (Some clubs may offer higher pay rates for late-night or early morning shifts)

Keep these factors in mind when thinking about what you’re likely to earn at a Planet Fitness position. 

Are there Benefits to Working at Planet Fitness?

We often think about the salary when evaluating a job offer, but the reality is that there’s so much more to employment than just the paycheck. Benefits can significantly impact both your personal and professional life, boosting job satisfaction and overall well-being. 

At Planet Fitness, they’re not just about helping you lead a healthier life; they also take care of their team the best way they can. Here are a couple of the benefits of working for Planet Fitness.

Health and Wellness Benefits

To start with, Health and Wellness Benefits are a significant part of employee perks. Planet Fitness provides comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, to ensure you and your dependents’ well-being. This is a crucial aspect of their benefits package that demonstrates how much they value your health.

Employee Discounts and Perks

Planet Fitness offers employee discounts and perks that are admittedly hard to resist. As an employee of Planet Fitness, you’re given a free gym membership, allowing you access to their workout facilities and classes. There could also be occasional discounts on fitness products and wellness programs, supplementing your fitness journey.

Work-Life Balance

Achieving a work-life balance is also a priority at Planet Fitness. They offer a flexible work schedule, paid time off, and vacation days, ensuring you have time to relax and recharge. Not to mention, they also respect parental rights, offering maternity and paternity leave options.

Next Steps

Getting a job at Planet Fitness, much like any career move, requires thoughtful preparation and confidence in your abilities. It’s not just about getting hired; it’s about finding a place where you can grow, contribute and be proud of what you do. 

The good news is that Planet Fitness offers a wide variety of roles, from entry-level positions to fitness instructors to management roles. Whatever your background or career aspirations, there’s likely to be a position that matches your skill set and passion.

Navigating your career journey can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to take this path alone! Engage with our experienced career coaches for personalized advice and guidance to craft your resume specifically for the opportunities at Planet Fitness. 

Don’t just tailor your resume, tailor your career for success and fulfillment.

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