Hype Flex
updates | June 07, 2026

Is the bench press at Planet Fitness good?

The bench press can be dangerous for those new to bulking up

That's because Planet Fitness isn't designed for those wanting to bulk up or work on heavy lifting. As a bench press involves a weight bench and barbell or dumbbell (via VeryWell Fit), it doesn't exactly fit in with the gym's brand.

Does Planet Fitness have real bench press?

Then I have to warn you that Planet Fitness might not be the place for you, the biggest reason being that they do not have free weight bench press or squat racks. You have to use a Smith machine.

How much does the bar weigh on a bench press at Planet Fitness?

The Smith machines at Planet Fitness will have the bar weight written on the side of the machine. So, you can just have a look, but they should range from 15-20lbs. Note: Some PF gyms may have heavier bars, as we've seen members claim their Planet Fitness gym's Smith machine weighs 35lbs.

Can you get strong at Planet Fitness?

Yes, you can get a good workout in at planet fitness (if you know what you're doing). While a good workout doesn't require them, the ability to add weight to exercises is an effective way to measure and make progress.

What is the heaviest weight at Planet Fitness?

The dumbbells are limited to 60 pounds. The heaviest fixed barbell is also 60 pounds. They had 95 assorted cardio machines - rows and rows of them. They had isolated resistance machines with laughably light weight stacks.

15 related questions found

How heavy can you lift at Planet Fitness?

Overall, the dumbbells at most Planet Fitness locations are going to go up to 50 pounds. This can be enough for you to get quite a good arm workout in without having to use the barbell and the heavier weights.

Why doesn't Planet Fitness have a bench?

That's because Planet Fitness isn't designed for those wanting to bulk up or work on heavy lifting. As a bench press involves a weight bench and barbell or dumbbell (via VeryWell Fit), it doesn't exactly fit in with the gym's brand.

Is flat bench press useless?

Ultimately, it's a matter of preference and what your goals are. The flat bench press does a better job of developing your pecs. Many trainers agree that the incline press is safer on your pecs, shoulders, and rotator cuffs.

Is using a Smith machine cheating?

Think of it as a crutch. In conclusion, competitive technique aside, of course, the Smith machine isn't cheating. It's barely even a fitness hack. You'll build your quads, hamstrings, posterior chain and core muscles while simultaneously burning high calories.

How heavy are the barbells at Planet Fitness?

In a nutshell, Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight is usually between 6 to more than 45 pounds (2.7 to 40 kg). Sometimes, you can find the average weight of it is from 15 to 25 pounds (6.8 to 11 kg).

What's better Smith machine or bench press?

The traditional barbell bench press is better than the Smith machine bench press when it comes to muscle activation, especially for targeting smaller muscle groups that help stabilize your body when moving heavy weights.

Is Smith machine same as bench press?

For those who are unfamiliar, barbell bench presses involve Olympic flat benches and free weights, whereas the smith machine bench press used a bar that is attached to the machine. The path of the bar is different for each bench press.

Does Planet Fitness have barbells?

No, Planet Fitness does not have Squat racks or Barbells. The gym does not offer you to have the free weights or free weight training as well. The gym equipment like power racks and dumbbell bench press is nowhere to be found here.

What is 30 degrees on a bench?

30 degrees may seem like a very small angle, but it is proper incline bench press form for placing the strain on your upper pecs and minimizing the effect on the anterior deltoid muscles. Research shows that the correct angle of the Incline Bench Press should be 30 degrees from flat to target the upper chest.

How do you properly bench press?

Place your hands on the bar above you with your fingers on the rough grip area, then grasp the bar. Squeeze your scapulas, or shoulder blades, together for proper form and targeting. When you're ready to lift off the weight to perform a bench press, lift and then extend your arms out straight.

How do I get a perfect bench press form?

“Initiate each rep by bending your elbows to lower the bar slowly and under control until it touches your chest near the nipples,” says McKenzie. “Perfect form means keeping your elbows as close to your sides as possible as you lower the weight, then press back up powerfully.”

Does the Smith machine bar weigh anything?

A Smith machine bar weighs anywhere from 6 lbs to 32 lbs depending on the material of construction, counterbalancing, and the angle of the rails.

Why does Planet Fitness not do deadlifts?

Some gyms ban deadlifts for a number of reasons; Firstly, commercial gyms don't have dedicated deadlift platforms so the deadlift ban is to protect the equipment and flooring. They also don't want to promote a “hardcore” weightlifting atmosphere so try to prevent the noise pollution from dropped weights.

Why did Planet Fitness Get rid of squat racks?

They don't market themselves as a place for bodybuilders to do serious weightlifting, so they don't need to have a squat rack, according to Men's Health.

How do I get the most out of Planet Fitness?

5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Workout

  1. Consult Fitness Experts. Gyms provide great resources for their guests — not just equipment, but guidance as well. ...
  2. Try Multipurpose Cardio Machines. ...
  3. Add Some Weights. ...
  4. Stretch It Out. ...
  5. Get a Post-Workout Massage.