If you’re considering canceling your Planet Fitness membership, you might be wondering: “Does Planet Fitness offer a free trial or perks to keep me before I cancel?”
The answer? Sometimes—but only if you know what to ask for.
In this guide, we’ll break down how Planet Fitness handles trial offers, retention deals, freezes, and membership perks when members are about to quit. Whether you’re trying to save money, buy some time, or simply test their Black Card benefits, we’ll walk you through exactly what to ask for before you cancel.
Does Planet Fitness Offer a Trial Before Cancellation?
Officially, Planet Fitness does not advertise a free trial for existing members about to cancel. But many users report being offered temporary membership holds, downgrades, or perks to stay—especially if you cancel in person.
What You Might Be Offered:
| Retention Offer | Description |
|---|---|
| Membership Hold | Pause your membership for 1–3 months |
| Free Month | Occasionally offered to retain members |
| Downgrade | Switch from Black Card to Basic membership |
| Discount | Temporary discount to continue membership |
| Guest Pass Extension | Get extra guest access for Black Card holders |
These offers vary by location, so your local manager has the final say.
What to Say When You Go to Cancel
If you’re canceling in person, the staff may ask why. Here are smart scripts to trigger trial or retention offers:
Script 1 (Budget-conscious): “Hi, I’m thinking about canceling because I’m trying to cut costs. Do you have any temporary discounts or ways to pause my membership?”
Script 2 (Travel-related): “I’ll be out of town for a while and won’t be using the gym. Is there a way to freeze my membership instead of canceling?”
Script 3 (Considering Black Card): “I’ve been thinking of canceling but also curious about the Black Card perks. Is there a way I could try them out first?”
Asking the right questions can unlock unexpected benefits or time extensions.
Planet Fitness Membership Hold vs Trial Period
While not officially a trial, the membership hold option acts like one.
Hold Highlights:
- Pause your account for 1–3 months
- Available for travel, injury, or financial hardship
- Often free, but some clubs charge a small monthly fee (usually $5–$10)
- You won’t be billed regular dues during the hold
Trial Highlights:
- Short-term access to new features (like Black Card perks)
- Can be offered upon request, but not guaranteed
- Rarely advertised
Can You Try the Black Card Perks Before Downgrading?
Yes. In some cases, club managers allow a 1–2 week Black Card preview before switching or canceling. If you’re on a basic plan and considering upgrading instead of canceling, it’s worth asking.
Black Card Perks You Might Try:
- Guest privileges
- Massage chairs
- Tanning beds
- Hydromassage
- Nationwide access
Just say: “Can I try the Black Card perks before deciding if I want to upgrade or cancel?”
Free Trial Offers for New Members
Planet Fitness has offered free trial passes for new, non-members in the past. These are separate from retention offers and may include:
- 1-day free pass (most common)
- Free friend passes via Black Card members
- Seasonal promotions like “Workout for Free in January”
These passes are for prospective members, not cancellations, but knowing the difference helps manage expectations.
Planet Fitness Cancellation Policy Recap
| Method | Notes |
| In-person | Preferred method; visit your home club |
| Certified Mail | Must be sent to your home club’s physical address |
| Email/Phone | Not accepted |
| Timing | Cancel at least 7 days before next billing |
Should You Cancel or Hold Instead?
| Scenario | Better Option |
| Traveling for <3 months | Hold |
| Trying a new gym temporarily | Hold |
| Financial struggles | Ask for discount or hold |
| Long-term break | Cancel |
| Want to try perks first | Ask for Black Card preview |
Tips to Get a Trial or Discount Before Cancelling
- Be polite but honest with your reason
- Ask about Black Card perks or a free preview
- Mention temporary financial hardship
- Ask if they offer membership hold or discount plans
- Always speak to a manager, not just front desk staff
Alternatives to Cancelling
- Pause Membership: Temporarily stop billing
- Downgrade: Switch from Black Card to Basic
- Transfer: Some clubs allow moving to a nearby location
FAQs: Planet Fitness Trial Offers Before Cancellation
1. Does Planet Fitness offer a free trial before you cancel?
Not officially, but some clubs may offer perks or holds if you ask.
2. Can I ask for a guest pass instead of canceling?
Yes, especially if you’re a Black Card member.
3. Is there a trial period for Black Card upgrades?
Some clubs allow short trials before committing—ask your manager.
4. Can I freeze my Planet Fitness account instead of canceling?
Yes. Membership holds are often allowed for travel or hardship.
5. What is the cost to hold a Planet Fitness membership?
Free or $5–$10/month depending on location.
6. How do I ask for a discount or trial?
Speak with the manager and explain your situation—many will help.
7. Do Planet Fitness staff try to retain canceling members?
Yes. They may offer perks, upgrades, or trial options.
8. Can I get one more free month before I cancel?
Sometimes! Some clubs offer a free month to keep you from canceling.
9. What should I say when canceling to get a deal?
Say you’re thinking about leaving due to budget or travel—ask about options.
10. Can I try Black Card perks even if I have a basic membership?
Yes, if your club allows a preview period before you upgrade.
11. Does every club offer the same retention deals?
No. Offers vary by manager discretion and local policies.
12. Will Planet Fitness notify me about trial options?
No. You have to ask—these are not publicly promoted.
13. Can I pause and then cancel later?
Yes. Many members choose this route to avoid immediate billing.
14. Is the hold counted against my contract term?
Usually not—it pauses the term. Confirm with your club.
15. Do Black Card guest passes work during a trial?
Yes, if your club extends perks during a trial or preview period.
Final Thoughts
If you’re about to cancel Planet Fitness, don’t walk away without exploring your options. While they don’t publicly promote trials before cancellation, many clubs are flexible—offering free holds, Black Card previews, discounts, or even a free month to keep you onboard.
Just ask! You could end up saving money, enjoying new perks, or delaying your cancellation without losing access.
Ready to cancel anyway? Click here to create your free cancellation letter PDF