If you’re planning to take a break from the gym—maybe you’re traveling, recovering from an injury, or just tightening your budget—you’ve probably wondered: Should I put my Planet Fitness membership on hold or cancel it completely?
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, costs, and consequences of both options so you can make the smartest decision for your lifestyle and wallet. Plus, we’ll give you insider tips on how to hold or cancel your membership without penalties or surprises.
Whether you’re on a tight schedule or tight budget, this guide is your one-stop resource to understand the difference between Planet Fitness membership hold vs cancellation—and which one could save you more money and hassle.
What Is a Planet Fitness Membership Hold?
A membership hold is a temporary pause on your Planet Fitness account. This is ideal if you plan to return to the gym soon but need to skip a few months.
Key Features:
- Temporary freeze: You won’t be charged monthly fees.
- Return anytime: Your membership resumes when the hold ends.
- Usually free: Some clubs allow holds for free; others charge a small fee (usually $5–$10/month).
- Valid reasons: Injury, travel, financial hardship, medical issues.
Note: Hold policies vary by location since most Planet Fitness gyms are franchise-owned. Always check with your home club.
What Is a Membership Cancellation?
A Planet Fitness membership cancellation refers to the complete termination of your contract with the gym. You’re no longer a member and must reapply (and repay initiation fees) if you return.
Key Features:
- Permanent stop: Ends billing completely.
- Must cancel in person: Or via certified mail.
- May involve a fee: If you’re under a contract, early termination fees may apply.
- Must be done at home club: Not valid at other locations.
Comparison Table: Membership Hold vs Cancellation
| Feature | Membership Hold | Membership Cancellation |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1–3 months (avg.) | Permanent |
| Fees | Free or $5–$10/mo | May include termination fee |
| Rejoin Process | No rejoining needed | New member signup required |
| Access | Temporarily paused | Completely terminated |
| Best For | Short-term break | Long-term or permanent break |
| Initiation Fees | Waived | Re-applied if rejoining |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros of Holding Your Membership
- Saves rejoining and initiation fees
- Quick and easy to request
- No need to sign new contracts
❌ Cons of Holding Your Membership
- Some locations charge a monthly hold fee
- Duration limits (often 3 months max)
✅ Pros of Cancelling Your Membership
- Stops all charges
- No long-term obligation
- Ideal if you’re sure you’re not coming back
❌ Cons of Cancelling Your Membership
- Must reapply and repay initiation fee to rejoin
- Could involve early termination fees
When to Choose Hold Over Cancellation
Hold is the smarter option if:
- You’re injured but planning to return soon
- You’re going on vacation or seasonal break
- You’re dealing with a temporary financial issue
- You love your club but need a short-term pause
Pro Tip: Ask your gym manager if they offer free holds for medical or hardship reasons.
When to Cancel Instead
Cancellation makes more sense if:
- You’re moving far from any Planet Fitness location
- You’re switching to another gym
- Your long-term financial situation has changed
- You weren’t happy with your experience
Not coming back for 6+ months? Cancellation may save you more in the long run.
How to Put Your Membership on Hold
- Visit your home club in person.
- Ask for a membership hold form.
- Provide a valid reason (optional but helpful).
- Review the duration and any applicable fees.
- Request confirmation in writing.
Some clubs allow holds via phone or email, but in-person is always safest.
How to Cancel Your Planet Fitness Membership
- Go to your home Planet Fitness location.
- Request a cancellation form from the front desk.
- Fill out the form clearly.
- Ask for a receipt or written confirmation.
- Alternatively, mail a cancellation letter via certified USPS.
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How Much Money Can You Save?
Let’s break it down:
| Scenario | Monthly Membership | Hold Fee | Hold Duration | Total Cost | Savings (vs staying active) |
| Standard | $25 | $5 | 3 months | $15 | $60+ |
| Black Card | $30 | $0 | 2 months | $0 | $60 |
| Cancel | $0 | $0 | Permanent | $0 | $90–$180 annually |
FAQs: Planet Fitness Hold vs Cancellation
1. Can I put my Planet Fitness membership on hold online?
No, it must be done in person at your home club or by calling them directly.
2. Is there a hold fee?
Some clubs charge $5–$10/month; others allow free holds for medical or hardship reasons.
3. How long can I pause my membership?
Typically 1–3 months, depending on the location and reason.
4. Can I hold my membership indefinitely?
No, there’s usually a maximum hold period (e.g., 3 months).
5. Will I be charged during a hold?
Only the small hold fee (if applicable). No full membership fees.
6. Do I need to give a reason for holding?
Not always, but it helps—especially for medical holds.
7. Can I cancel while my account is on hold?
Yes, but cancellation policies still apply (e.g., early termination fees).
8. Will I have to pay the initiation fee again if I cancel?
Yes, if you cancel and rejoin later, you’ll typically pay the startup fee again.
9. What if I want to switch clubs?
Ask about transferring instead of cancelling—some clubs allow it.
10. How do I avoid Planet Fitness cancellation fees?
Cancel near the end of your billing cycle or switch to a month-to-month plan if available.
11. Can I freeze my Black Card membership?
Yes. Policies vary by club, but it’s usually allowed.
12. Will my access be blocked during a hold?
Yes, you won’t be able to use the gym until the hold is lifted.
13. What happens to my billing date after a hold?
It usually resumes where it left off. Confirm with your club.
14. Do I get a refund for unused days if I cancel?
Usually not. Cancel before your next billing cycle to avoid extra charges.
15. What’s the fastest way to cancel my membership?
Go in person and submit a cancellation letter or use our free PDF letter tool.
Final Verdict: Which One Saves You More?
- Choose HOLD if you plan to return in 1–3 months and want to avoid rejoining fees.
- Choose CANCELLATION if you’re done for good or want a fresh start elsewhere.
Either way, understanding the difference between Planet Fitness membership hold vs cancellation can save you hundreds of dollars—and a ton of stress.
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