Planet Fitness tanning beds are available to Black Card members and offer a genuinely convenient way to fit tanning into your gym routine. But there’s a big difference between convenient and good — and when it comes to tanning beds specifically, the quality of the equipment, the session limits, and the hygiene standards matter a lot.

After spending time using the tanning facilities at Planet Fitness as a Black Card member, here’s the honest verdict: they’re decent for maintaining a light-to-moderate base tan, but they’re not going to replace a dedicated tanning salon if results are your main priority. The beds are basic, the session limits are strict, and the UV output is on the lower end of what you’d find elsewhere.

That said, for the price — especially if you’re already paying for a Black Card membership — it’s a solid added bonus that many members genuinely get a lot of use from. Here’s everything you need to know.

Key Takeaways

Planet Fitness tanning beds are available exclusively to Black Card members (currently around $25/month)
They offer both lay-down beds and stand-up booths, depending on the location
Sessions are limited to 9–12 minutes and no more than once per 24-hour period
You must be at least 18 years old and sign a waiver before your first tanning session
The beds use lower-pressure UV bulbs — suitable for building a base tan, not achieving deep or dramatic results quickly
Cleanliness is generally good, but always wipe down the bed yourself before use
Protective eyewear is mandatory and enforced at most locations
For the price point, it’s good value — but dedicated tanning salons offer stronger equipment and better results

What Membership Do You Need for Planet Fitness Tanning?

Tanning at Planet Fitness is exclusive to Black Card members. The standard Classic membership doesn’t include tanning access — you’ll need to upgrade to the Black Card tier, which typically runs around $24.99 per month depending on your location.

The Black Card membership also comes with other perks including guest privileges, access to any Planet Fitness location, and use of massage chairs at select clubs. So if you’re already considering a Black Card for the other benefits, the tanning access is a genuinely useful addition at no extra cost.

One important rule: you must be at least 18 years old to use the tanning beds, and you’ll need to sign a waiver at the front desk before your first session. Some states have additional age or parental consent requirements, so it’s worth checking with your local club before assuming access is automatic.

Types of Tanning Beds at Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness locations typically offer two types of tanning equipment — lay-down beds and stand-up booths. Not every location has both, so it’s worth checking what your specific club offers before making tanning a core part of your decision to upgrade to Black Card.

Lay-Down Tanning Beds

The lay-down beds are the more traditional style — you lie flat inside a clamshell-style unit while UV bulbs above and below tan your body. They’re comfortable and relaxing, and a good option if you prefer a lower-intensity session. The beds at Planet Fitness are generally entry-to-mid-level units, often from brands like Ergoline or Sun Capsule, and use lower-pressure lamps that produce a more gradual result. If you’re new to tanning beds, this is the better place to start.

Stand-Up Tanning Booths

Stand-up booths require you to stand upright in an enclosed unit surrounded by UV lamps. They typically use slightly more powerful bulbs than lay-down beds, which means slightly faster results. They also eliminate the uneven tan lines you can sometimes get where your body presses against the surface of a lay-down bed. If you’ve compared stand-up vs lay-down tanning beds before, you’ll know the tradeoffs — the booths feel less claustrophobic but require standing for the entire session.

My Personal Experience with Planet Fitness Tanning Beds

As a Black Card member, I’ve used the tanning facilities at my local Planet Fitness regularly enough to form a clear picture of what they offer and where they fall short.

The lay-down beds are clean, reasonably comfortable, and easy to use — the process is straightforward and the staff are helpful if it’s your first time. The sessions are capped at around 10–12 minutes, which feels short at first but is genuinely appropriate for the UV output these beds produce. Going longer wouldn’t necessarily speed up your tan — it would just increase your risk of burning without proportional benefit.

The stand-up booth at my location felt slightly more intense, and I found myself getting a more even coverage than with the lay-down bed, which is consistent with what most people report. That said, standing for the full session takes some getting used to if you’re not accustomed to it.

Results-wise, after consistent use over a few weeks I was maintaining a light-to-medium base tan comfortably. It wasn’t the deep, rich color you’d get from a Level 4 or 5 bed at a dedicated tanning salon — but for maintaining a natural-looking glow, it did the job. The key word is maintaining. These beds are excellent for keeping a base tan going, less so for building dramatic color from scratch.

One thing I genuinely appreciated was that the rules were clearly posted in each tanning room and the staff actually enforced them. Eyewear was required, session limits were logged, and the beds appeared to be cleaned between uses. That matters more than most people realise — tanning bed hygiene is a real concern that not every gym takes seriously enough.

Planet Fitness Tanning Bed Rules You Need to Know

Before you use the tanning beds at Planet Fitness, there are a few firm rules in place that apply across most locations:

Black Card members only — standard Classic membership does not include tanning access
18+ only — no exceptions, and some states have stricter age rules
One session per 24 hours — you cannot tan more than once in any 24-hour window. This is the 24-hour tanning rule followed across most professional tanning environments
Session time limits — typically 9–12 minutes per session depending on the bed and your location
Protective eyewear is mandatory — the UV lamps used can cause serious eye damage without proper protection. Tanning goggles are available at the desk if you don’t have your own
Waiver required — you’ll sign a liability waiver at the front desk before your first session

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Tanning bed hygiene is something that deserves more attention than it typically gets. Research has shown that tanning beds can harbour bacteria including Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas species if not properly cleaned between uses [Brooks et al., Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010].

At Planet Fitness, the cleaning standards are generally solid — wipes and cleaning spray are available in each tanning room, and the staff do cycle through to clean units. That said, I’d always recommend wiping down the bed surface yourself before getting in, regardless of how clean it looks. It takes 30 seconds and eliminates any uncertainty.

Bringing your own protective eyewear is also worth considering if you’re using the beds regularly, rather than relying on shared goggles at the desk.

Tanning Results — What to Realistically Expect

This is where it’s important to be honest. The tanning beds at Planet Fitness are entry-to-mid-level equipment with lower UV output than you’d find at a dedicated tanning salon. They’re not Level 3, 4, or 5 beds — they’re broadly equivalent to a Level 1–2 bed in a traditional tanning salon context.

What this means in practice:

Building a base tan from scratch will take longer than it would at a salon
Maintaining an existing tan is very manageable with regular sessions
Deep, dramatic color is difficult to achieve with these beds alone
Results are gradual and natural-looking rather than intense

If your goal is to go from pale to deeply tanned quickly, Planet Fitness tanning beds alone won’t get you there efficiently. But if you’re looking to maintain a light glow or build a very gradual base tan as part of a regular gym routine, they work perfectly well for that purpose.

Benefits and Risks of Tanning at Planet Fitness

The Benefits

The most obvious benefit is convenience — if you’re already at Planet Fitness for a workout, fitting in a short tanning session adds minimal time to your visit. There’s no separate trip to a tanning salon, no extra membership to juggle, and no additional cost beyond your Black Card subscription.

Some members also use the tanning beds for potential vitamin D production. UVB radiation from tanning beds can stimulate vitamin D synthesis in the skin [Holick et al., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2008], though whether Planet Fitness beds produce meaningful UVB output depends on the specific lamp type used at your location. It’s worth noting that this should never be the primary reason to use a tanning bed, as the risks need to be weighed carefully. Read more about whether tanning beds can give you vitamin D for a fuller picture.

The Risks

Tanning bed use carries real risks that are important to understand before committing to regular sessions. Research has established a clear link between tanning bed use and increased skin cancer risk, including melanoma — the most serious form of skin cancer [IARC Working Group, Lancet Oncology, 2009]. The risk increases with frequency and duration of exposure, and with first use at a younger age.

Other common risks include:

Premature skin aging — UV exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and the appearance of fine lines
Burns and overexposure — particularly for new tanners who misjudge session lengths
Eye damage — UV rays can cause photokeratitis and increase cataract risk without proper eye protection
Skin dryness — regular UV exposure can strip moisture from the skin, making post-session moisturizing essential

Planet Fitness mitigates some of these risks through enforced session limits and the 24-hour rule, but individual responsibility matters too. If you choose to use tanning beds, keeping sessions within the recommended limits and never tanning every single day is important for long-term skin health.

Before or After Your Workout — When Should You Tan?

This is one of the most common questions from Planet Fitness members using the tanning beds. The honest answer is that either works, but tanning after your workout is generally the better choice for a few reasons.

After exercise your skin is warm and your circulation is elevated, which can support melanin production. You’re also already showered (or planning to shower), meaning your skin is clean and free from sweat, sunscreen residue, and makeup — all of which can affect how evenly the UV absorbs. Tanning before a workout means you’ll be sweating on freshly tanned skin, which can cause patchy results or irritation.

One important caveat: avoid tanning while your skin is still overheated or flushed from exercise. Let your body temperature settle for 10–15 minutes before getting into the tanning bed.

Tips for Getting the Best Results from Planet Fitness Tanning Beds

Start short — if you’re new to tanning beds, begin with 6–8 minutes rather than going straight to the maximum. Let your skin adapt gradually before increasing session length
Moisturize after every session — UV exposure dries the skin, and moisturized skin holds a tan better and fades more evenly. Make it a post-tan habit every time
Avoid oils containing mineral oil or petroleum — these can damage the acrylic surface of the tanning bed and affect your session quality. If you want to use a tanning oil, make sure it’s specifically formulated for indoor tanning use
Skip the makeup and heavy perfume — products on your skin can react with UV rays and cause uneven tanning or irritation. Tanning with makeup on can lead to patchy results
Always wear protective eyewear — this is non-negotiable. The UV lamps produce enough radiation to cause real eye damage with repeated unprotected exposure
Be consistent — 2–3 sessions per week over several weeks is far more effective for building a gradual base tan than sporadic intense use
Wipe down the bed before use — take 30 seconds to clean the surface before getting in, regardless of how clean it looks

Is Planet Fitness Tanning Worth It?

For most Black Card members, yes — but with realistic expectations attached.

If you’re already paying for a Black Card membership and you want to maintain a light base tan without paying separately for a tanning salon, Planet Fitness tanning beds offer genuine value. The convenience of combining your workout and tanning session into one trip is hard to argue with, and the beds are clean, functional, and managed responsibly.

Where it falls short is for anyone expecting salon-level results. The beds are basic equipment, the session limits are strict, and the UV output won’t deliver deep or dramatic color as efficiently as dedicated tanning salon beds will. If fast, strong tanning results are your priority, a proper tanning salon with higher-level beds will serve you better.

The sweet spot for Planet Fitness tanning is maintenance — keeping a base tan going between holidays, or building a very gradual glow over weeks as a complement to your gym routine. For that purpose, it’s a solid and convenient perk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Planet Fitness locations have tanning beds?

Not all locations offer tanning. Tanning beds are available at most Planet Fitness clubs, but availability varies by location. It’s always worth calling or checking the Planet Fitness app to confirm your local club has tanning before upgrading to a Black Card specifically for that reason.

How often can you tan at Planet Fitness?

You’re limited to one tanning session per 24-hour period. This is consistent with the 24-hour tanning rule used across most professional tanning environments. Most regular tanners find that 2–3 sessions per week is sufficient for building and maintaining results without overexposure.

How long are tanning sessions at Planet Fitness?

Session limits typically range from 9 to 12 minutes depending on the bed type and your location. Stand-up booths often allow slightly shorter sessions due to their stronger bulb output. Always stick to the recommended limit, especially as a beginner.

What level tanning beds does Planet Fitness have?

Planet Fitness beds are generally considered entry-to-mid-level equipment — broadly equivalent to Level 1–2 beds at a dedicated tanning salon. They’re suitable for building and maintaining a light-to-moderate base tan but won’t produce the deep, intense results that higher-level salon beds can.

Should I tan before or after working out at Planet Fitness?

Tanning after your workout is generally the better choice. Your skin will be clean, your pores will be open from the warmth of exercise, and you can shower after your tan rather than sweating on freshly tanned skin. Just wait 10–15 minutes after your workout before getting in the bed so your body temperature has settled.

Can you get a good tan from Planet Fitness tanning beds?

Yes, with consistent use over time. The beds are entry-to-mid-level equipment, so results build gradually rather than dramatically. For maintaining a base tan or achieving a light natural glow, they work well. For deep, intense color fast, a dedicated tanning salon with higher-level beds would serve you better.

Are Planet Fitness tanning beds safe?

All UV tanning beds carry inherent risks, including increased skin cancer risk with cumulative use [IARC Working Group, Lancet Oncology, 2009]. Planet Fitness reduces risk exposure through enforced session limits, the 24-hour rule, and mandatory eyewear. If you choose to tan, following these limits and avoiding daily use are the most important steps you can take to protect your skin over the long term.

Are Planet Fitness tanning beds clean?

Generally yes — cleaning supplies are available in the tanning rooms and staff maintenance is consistent at most locations. That said, it’s always worth wiping down the bed surface yourself before use. Research has found bacteria can be present on tanning bed surfaces if cleaning is inconsistent [Brooks et al., Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010], so it’s a sensible precaution regardless of the gym.

Conclusion

Planet Fitness tanning beds offer genuine value for Black Card members who want a convenient way to build or maintain a base tan as part of their regular gym routine. The equipment is clean, the rules are well-enforced, and for the price — which is essentially included in your Black Card membership — it’s hard to complain.

Just go in with the right expectations. These are entry-level beds with strict session limits, and they’re best suited for gradual, natural-looking results rather than deep or dramatic color. If that fits your goals, Planet Fitness tanning is a convenient and cost-effective perk worth using.

If you want stronger results or higher-level equipment, a dedicated tanning salon will serve you better — but for everyday glow maintenance alongside your workouts, Planet Fitness gets the job done.

References

Tanning Beds and Skin Cancer Risk:
IARC Working Group on artificial ultraviolet (UV) light and skin cancer. (2009). Lancet Oncology. “The association of use of sunbeds with cutaneous malignant melanoma and other skin cancers: a systematic review.” Comprehensive review confirming that tanning bed use is associated with increased risk of melanoma and other skin cancers, with risk rising with frequency of use.

Tanning Bed Hygiene and Bacterial Contamination:
Brooks, G. F., et al. (2010). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. “Bacterial contamination of tanning beds.” Study identifying bacterial species including Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas on tanning bed surfaces, highlighting the importance of proper cleaning protocols between uses.

Vitamin D Synthesis and UV Exposure:
Holick, M. F., et al. (2008). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. “Vitamin D deficiency: a worldwide problem with health consequences.” Review covering the role of UVB radiation in vitamin D synthesis in the skin and the broader health implications of vitamin D status.