An Atlanta-based gym enthusiast, known online as @trutothefam3, has taken a firm stance against the persistent criticism directed at Planet Fitness. After completing a workout that resulted in an estimated 600-calorie burn, the creator took to TikTok to challenge the prevailing narrative that the budget-friendly gym chain is insufficient for serious training.
The creator admitted that he had previously avoided the franchise, influenced by the common sentiment that one simply “can’t get no work in” at such facilities. However, after signing up for his local branch, his perspective shifted entirely. “I was in there getting money,” he stated, questioning why the brand continues to face such intense scrutiny from fitness enthusiasts.
Addressing the Smith Machine Debate
The primary criticism often leveled against Planet Fitness is its reliance on Smith machines rather than traditional free-weight barbells. The creator acknowledged this limitation but argued that it does not hinder one’s ability to achieve a productive workout. “Ain’t no, like, real free weights in it, but you can still get money in there,” he noted.
According to EOS Fitness, the Smith machine serves as a hybrid tool, blending the barbell setup of free weights with the guided stability of a machine. Its fixed steel rails provide built-in safety stops, making it an excellent option for solo lifters or those focusing on form and isolation. While it may lack the stabilizer engagement of free weights, it remains a viable tool for hypertrophy and general strength training.
Planet fitness is ok wit me forreal! 💪🏾 #gymtok #planetfitnessworkout #fitnessjourney #gymlife ♬ original sound – trutothegam3
Challenging Fitness Elitism
The creator’s broader argument centers on the financial disparity between boutique gyms and mass-market chains. He pointed out that many individuals pay significantly higher monthly premiums for services that mirror what is available at a fraction of the cost at Planet Fitness. “They’re spending 50, 60 dollars at these regular gyms and all that just to do the same [expletive] you can do at Planet Fitness,” he asserted.
The debate has sparked a variety of reactions from the fitness community. While some commenters maintain that the chain is for “rookies,” others have shared positive experiences, noting that many locations have expanded their equipment to include half-racks and heavier dumbbells, catering to more advanced lifters. Ultimately, the consensus among supporters is simple: a gym is a gym, and consistency remains the most important factor in any fitness journey.
