How to Use Planet Fitness Massage Chair: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

If you’re new to Planet Fitness, the massage chairs can feel a bit tricky at first. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to use the chairs step by step, pick the right massage program, adjust for comfort, and enjoy a relaxing experience every time.

• Check Access First: Only Black Card® members can use massage chairs regularly.

• Prepare Before Sitting: Wipe the chair, ensure it’s on, and alert staff if it’s broken.

• Pick the Right Program: Match your massage type and intensity to your current needs.

• Adjust for Comfort: Recline, footrests, and intensity settings help target muscles effectively.

• Follow Safety and Hygiene: Remove jewelry, watch for discomfort, and sanitize after use.

The Planet Fitness massage chair, usually a HydroMassage bed or lounger, gives you a full-body, dry massage using heated, pressurized water. 

As a Black Card member, you can adjust intensity, speed, and focus areas via touchscreen or remote. 

Sessions last 10–15 minutes, helping reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility. Scan your card, set your preferences, and sanitize afterward.

• Black Card® Members: Can use massage chairs anytime.

• Other Perks: Black Card members also get hydro-massage, tanning, and Total Body Enhancement.

• Standard/Classic Members: Cannot use massage chairs.

• Guests of Members: Usually cannot use massage chairs.

• Limited Guest Access: Some gyms may allow it if not busy.

• Non-Members: Not allowed to use massage chairs at all.

• Recommendation: Upgrade to Black Card® to enjoy massage chairs regularly.

Planet Fitness massage chairs are usually found in the relaxation or wellness area near the gym floor. 

Check if a chair is free before approaching, and wipe it with provided sanitizing wipes to keep it clean. 

Make sure it’s plugged in and powered on before sitting. If any buttons don’t work or the chair seems broken, alert staff immediately. 

Most chairs allow anyone over a certain age to use them, but consult a doctor if you have injuries or health conditions. This preparation ensures a safe and smooth massage experience.

The control panel shows buttons for power, massage styles, intensity, and time. Start by pressing the power button, then choose from options like kneading, rolling, or shiatsu. 

You can increase or decrease intensity with simple up and down buttons. Many chairs have timers that automatically stop the session after a set time. 

If you accidentally press the wrong button, just reset your choice or restart the session. Spend a moment learning each function so you can switch programs easily and enjoy a personalized massage every time.

Planet Fitness chairs offer programs like full-body, back-focused, stress relief, and stretching massages. 

For back pain, choose a deep kneading or rolling option, while stress relief works well with gentle, soothing programs. 

Beginners should start on lighter settings to avoid discomfort and gradually increase intensity. 

Most sessions last 10 to 15 minutes, but you can switch programs anytime if you want a different focus. 

Pick a program that matches your current needs, and you’ll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, and tension-free. Experimenting helps you find your favorite routine.

Sit upright and align your back with the chair for the best massage. Adjust the recline, footrests, and armrests to support your body fully. 

Start with medium intensity and change it until it feels comfortable. If you feel sharp pain or unusual discomfort, reduce intensity or pause the session. 

Changing your position slightly can target different areas like shoulders, lower back, or calves. 

Experimenting with adjustments helps you get the most benefit and ensures every massage hits the areas that need it most, leaving you relaxed and tension-free.

People with heart problems, injuries, or pregnancy should consult a doctor before using the chair. 

Remove jewelry and avoid loose clothing to prevent pinching. Keep hands and feet clear of moving parts, and never let children use the chair unsupervised. 

Sessions usually last 10 to 15 minutes, which is enough for a safe massage. Stay aware of how your body feels during the session and stop if anything feels wrong. 

Following these safety tips keeps your experience relaxing, pain-free, and safe while you enjoy every soothing motion.

Press the power button to turn off the chair when your session ends. Gentle stretching afterward helps your muscles relax further. 

Use sanitizing wipes to clean the seat and controls before leaving. Always return the chair to its upright position so the next person can use it easily. 

If the chair stops automatically, simply start it again if you want more time, but avoid back-to-back sessions to prevent fatigue. 

Following these steps ensures the chair stays ready and clean, giving you and others a smooth, enjoyable massage every visit.

At Planet Fitness, using the massage chair is a simple and relaxing way to unwind after your workout. 

Typically, each session lasts around 10 minutes, which is just enough time to help your muscles relax and recover. 

However, depending on the location, some gyms may offer slightly longer sessions of about 15 to 20 minutes. 

One of the best things is that these massage chairs are usually available 24/7, so you can enjoy them whenever it fits your schedule, whether it’s early morning or late at night. 

This flexibility makes it easy to include a quick massage as part of your fitness routine without any hassle.