Teenagers who want to work out at Planet Fitness are welcome to stop by.
All locations throughout the summer will be offering youth between the ages of 14 and 19 a free membership through Aug. 31 as part of its High School Summer Pass Program.
“I would’ve taken advantage of this when I was a kid,” said Justin Finn, a manager at Planet Fitness in Chesterfield Township, who has been with the company long enough to notice the impact the program has on youth.
Teens often travel in pairs.
So what happens is one student who has a membership will invite a friend who doesn’t and once they’re given the opportunity to exercise, and see the benefits, they often come back to join themselves.
“I’ve definitely seen some who have made a transition from not exercising to doing it on a regular basis,” said Finn.
The free membership for high school student aligns with the company’s commitment to support teen health and wellness through exercise. In fact, to better understand teens’ feelings about physical fitness and how best to support them, Planet Fitness conducted a nationwide study among kids and their parents. Here’s the findings and why their summer program is important:
• Mental health is a major concern
More than 60% of parents surveyed are concerned about their teen’s well-being and stress levels and 72% believe that consistent exercise can improve their teen’s mental wellness. Unfortunately, around three in five teens report their stress and anxiety are not improving and getting worse as they get older.
• Working out is a solution
Of the students surveyed 90% said exercise helps them feel happy, which is encouraging and 88% noted that their mood improved after exercise.
• Exercise is more than physical health
Teens believe physical activity helps deal with emotional ups and downs of being a teenager, according to the survey, and 93% agree that regular exercise is beneficial in dealing with the challenges they face.
• Screen time is consuming
More than 80% of the teens surveyed acknowledge that social media and video games take up a significant portion of their day. In fact, nearly four in five teens report that avoiding social media is helpful.
• Summer brings a fitness slump
Half of the teens reported that their fitness levels tend to decline when school is out for summer break.
“It’s a good idea,” said Jason Doke, 16, of Chesterfield Township, who is among the teens taking advantage of the free membership. To find the Planet Fitness nearest you, go to planetfitness.com/clubs.
Originally Published: July 14, 2025 at 10:39 AM EDT