Does Planet Fitness Only Have a Smith Machine? The Truth About Their Equipment

Planet Fitness is one of the most popular gym chains in the U.S., known for its budget-friendly memberships, Judgement Free Zone policy, and beginner-friendly atmosphere. But one question that often pops up among gym-goers is: Does Planet Fitness only have a Smith machine?

If you’re looking for free weights, barbells, squat racks, or a traditional bench press, this guide will help you understand what equipment Planet Fitness offers and whether it’s the right fit for your fitness goals.

🔥 Quick Answer: Does Planet Fitness Only Have a Smith Machine?

Yes, Planet Fitness primarily uses Smith machines instead of traditional squat racks and free-weight bench presses. The gym does not offer barbells or traditional power racks, as it focuses on machine-based workouts to align with its beginner-friendly model. However, it does provide dumbbells, cable machines, and other resistance training equipment.

If you’re looking for free-weight bench presses or Olympic squat racks, Planet Fitness may not be the best option. But if you prefer guided resistance machines and a relaxed environment, it’s a solid choice.

🏋️ What Strength Equipment Does Planet Fitness Offer?

While Planet Fitness does not have barbells or squat racks, it does offer various machines to help with strength training. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find:

✅ Smith Machine

The Smith machine is a staple at Planet Fitness. It allows you to perform squats, bench presses, and shoulder presses with added stability. The barbell on a Smith machine is fixed to rails, making it easier for beginners to lift safely.

✅ Dumbbells (Up to 75 lbs)

Planet Fitness offers dumbbells up to 50-75 lbs, depending on the location. While these are great for basic strength training, heavy lifters may find the weights insufficient for their needs.

✅ Cable Machines

Cable machines at Planet Fitness are perfect for lat pulldowns, tricep pushdowns, cable rows, and other exercises. They allow a good range of motion and are excellent for isolation exercises.

✅ Resistance Machines

Planet Fitness provides a variety of machine-based exercises, including:

Leg press
Chest press
Shoulder press
Lat pulldown
Seated row
Leg curl/extension

❌ No Traditional Bench Press or Squat Rack

Planet Fitness does not have a standard bench press with a barbell or a squat rack. If you’re looking for free-weight compound lifts, you might need to consider another gym.

💪 Smith Machine vs. Free Weights: Pros and Cons

Feature	Smith Machine	Free Weights
Stability	Fixed bar path, great for beginners	Requires balance and core engagement
Versatility	Limited to guided movements	Allows for natural range of motion
Muscle Engagement	Less stabilizer muscle activation	Engages stabilizer muscles
Safety	Safer for solo training	Requires spotter for heavy lifts
Availability at PF	✅ Yes	❌ No

The Smith machine can be a useful tool for beginners, but free weights provide a more functional and natural movement.

🔍 How Much Does the Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weigh?

The Smith machine bar at Planet Fitness typically weighs 15-20 lbs due to the assisted nature of the machine. This is lighter than a standard Olympic barbell, which weighs 45 lbs.

Type of Bar	Weight
Smith Machine Bar (Planet Fitness)	15-20 lbs
Standard Olympic Barbell	45 lbs
Powerlifting Barbell	55 lbs

If you’re used to lifting a regular barbell, keep this weight difference in mind when transitioning to a Smith machine workout.

❓ Why Doesn’t Planet Fitness Have Barbells or Squat Racks?

There are a few reasons why Planet Fitness avoids barbells and squat racks:

Beginner-Friendly Atmosphere – Many beginners feel intimidated by heavy lifting equipment.
Safety Concerns – Without squat racks and barbells, there’s a lower risk of injury.
Lunk Alarm Policy – Planet Fitness discourages heavy lifting and grunting.
Space and Cost Efficiency – Machines require less supervision and take up less space than squat racks.

For powerlifters or serious strength trainers, a traditional gym like Gold’s Gym, LA Fitness, or a local powerlifting gym might be a better fit.

🔥 FAQs About Planet Fitness Equipment

1. Does Planet Fitness Have Bench Press?

No, Planet Fitness does not have a traditional barbell bench press. You can use the Smith machine or dumbbells instead.

2. Does Planet Fitness Have Free Weights?

Yes, but only dumbbells up to 75 lbs. There are no barbells or plate-loaded free weights.

3. Does Planet Fitness Have Squat Racks?

No, Planet Fitness does not have squat racks. You can use Smith machines for squats.

4. How Heavy Are Dumbbells at Planet Fitness?

Dumbbells typically go up to 50-75 lbs, depending on the location.

5. Does Planet Fitness Have Deadlifting Platforms?

No, Planet Fitness does not allow traditional deadlifts.

6. Can You Do Olympic Lifts at Planet Fitness?

No, Olympic lifts like cleans, snatches, and jerks are not permitted.

7. Can You Use Barbells at Planet Fitness?

No, barbells are not available at Planet Fitness locations.

8. Does Planet Fitness Have Kettlebells?

Some locations may offer kettlebells, but it’s not standard.

9. Does Planet Fitness Have Resistance Bands?

Yes, some locations provide resistance bands.

10. Can You Bring Your Own Barbell to Planet Fitness?

No, outside equipment is not allowed in Planet Fitness gyms.

11. Does Planet Fitness Have TRX Suspension Training?

Some locations may offer TRX bands, but it’s not guaranteed.

12. Does Planet Fitness Have Rowing Machines?

Yes, Planet Fitness typically has rowing machines.

13. Can You Powerlift at Planet Fitness?

No, powerlifting is not encouraged at Planet Fitness.

14. Are There Personal Trainers at Planet Fitness?

Yes, Planet Fitness offers free basic training sessions.

15. Can You Lift Heavy at Planet Fitness?

While you can lift moderately heavy, Planet Fitness is not designed for serious heavy lifting.

🔥 Final Verdict: Is Planet Fitness Right for You?

Planet Fitness is great for beginners, casual gym-goers, and those who prefer machine-based workouts. However, if you’re a serious weightlifter, powerlifter, or bodybuilder, you may find the lack of free weights and squat racks limiting.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gym with cardio machines, Smith machines, and resistance training, Planet Fitness is a solid choice. But if you need Olympic lifts, free-weight bench presses, or power racks, you might want to explore other gyms.