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If you’ve recently joined Planet Fitness or are thinking about becoming a member, one of the most common questions you might have is:
This question is asked by thousands of gym-goers every month, and the answer is important if you want to plan your gym bag and hygiene routine properly.
Planet Fitness is known for being budget-friendly and offering essential fitness facilities, but like any gym, it has its own set of policies when it comes to amenities such as showers, lockers, and towels.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll answer the top questions people ask online about Planet Fitness showers and towels, so you know exactly what to expect and what to bring along.
What do I need to bring to the shower at the gym?
When heading to the gym, especially Planet Fitness, you should bring a few personal essentials for the shower area.
Most gyms, including Planet Fitness, do not provide personal toiletries or towels, so packing your own is crucial.
Here’s a quick checklist:
Shower towel (bath-sized towel for drying off)
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash(in travel bottles)
Face/hand towel(optional for quick drying)
Fresh change of clothes
Plastic or waterproof bag (to carry wet items back home)
Bringing your own items ensures that you maintain good hygiene and have a more comfortable post-workout experience.
Do Gyms With Showers Provide Towels?
The answer depends on the type of gym.
Luxury gyms or higher-priced clubs often provide clean towels for both workouts and showers.
Budget gyms (like Planet Fitness) usually keep membership costs low by not providing towels, expecting members to bring their own.
So, while some gyms might include towel service in their premium packages, most affordable gyms stick to a bring-your-own-towel policy.
Does Planet Fitness Provide Towels?
No, Planet Fitness does not provide free towels for showers.
The chain’s model is based on affordability, which means extra amenities like towel service are not included in the basic membership.
While Planet Fitness does have showers, members are expected to bring their own towels and toiletries.
Some locations might sell branded towels at the front desk, but they are not free and are usually limited in availability.
So, to avoid inconvenience, always pack your own towel in your gym bag.
Can I Go To The Gym Without A Towel?
Technically, yes—you can walk into the gym without a towel. However, this is not recommended for several reasons:
1. Hygiene -
Using shared equipment without wiping sweat can spread bacteria.
2. Gym etiquette –
Planet Fitness encourages members to clean up after themselves, and a towel makes this easier.
3. Shower use –
Without a towel, you’ll have no way to dry off after bathing.
In short, skipping a towel might not get you banned, but it is uncomfortable, unhygienic, and frowned upon.
Can I Go To The Gym Without A Towel?
Planet Fitness has a set of rules to ensure safety and a judgment-free environment.
Items generally not allowed include:
Large gym bags on the workout floor
Outside alcohol or drugs
Open-toed shoes (for workouts)
Excessive noise-making equipment
Personal chalk (in some locations)
You can bring shower essentials like towels, flip-flops, and toiletries, but avoid items on the restricted list to prevent issues.
Does Planet Fitness Supply Shower Towels?
No, Planet Fitness does not supply shower towels.
All members are expected to bring their own.
Some locations sell small branded towels for workouts, but these are not meant for full-body shower use.
If you’re planning to shower regularly at Planet Fitness, investing in a quick-dry microfiber towel is a smart choice since it’s lightweight, absorbs water well, and fits easily in a gym bag.
Will Planet Fitness Let Me Shower?
Yes! All Planet Fitness locations have showers in their locker rooms, available to every member—
whether you’re on the standard Classic Membership ($10/month) or the Black Card Membership ($25/month).
The only rule is that you must bring your own toiletries and towels.
Lockers are provided for temporary storage, but you’ll need to bring a lock for security.
Can I Use My Gym Membership Just To Shower?
Yes, technically you can. Many people with active lifestyles use Planet Fitness memberships mainly for showering after work, travel, or commuting.
Since Planet Fitness has locations nationwide, some individuals even use it like a “shower pass.”
Keep in mind:
You’ll still need to pay for a full membership.
You must follow gym policies (no loitering, proper use of lockers, etc.).
So if your main goal is just shower access, Planet Fitness can be a very cost-effective solution compared to hotels or pay-per-use facilities.
Does the gym’s shower require me to wear flip-flops?
While Planet Fitness doesn’t enforce flip-flop use, it is highly recommended.
Gym showers are shared spaces, and wearing flip-flops or shower sandals helps protect you from fungi, bacteria, and athlete’s foot.
Think of it as an inexpensive way to keep yourself safe and clean.
Many experienced gym-goers consider shower sandals an absolute must-have.
What do I need to bring to the shower at the gym?
Here’s a repeat-friendly, practical list to make sure you don’t forget:
Towel (large bath towel or quick-dry towel)
Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant)
Flip-flops or shower sandals
Fresh underwear and clothes
Plastic bag for wet items
Having these items in a dedicated gym kit saves you time and ensures you never feel unprepared after a workout.
Which towel should I bring to the gym shower?
Not all towels are equal when it comes to gym use. The best options include:
1. Microfiber Towels –
Lightweight, compact, quick-drying, and absorbent.
2. Cotton Bath Towels –
Soft and comfortable but bulkier and slower to dry.
3. Travel Towels –
Designed for portability; ideal if you visit the gym daily.
For most gym-goers, a microfiber towel is the top choice because it saves space in your bag and dries fast before your next workout.
