Planet Fitness celebrates grand opening of ‘Judgement Free Zone’ gym in Oshawa

Planet Fitness, one of North America’s fastest-growing fitness franchisors and home of the ‘Judgement free Zone’ is now open in Oshawa with a grand opening celebration planned for February 8.

The new 18,000 sq.ft club at 555 Simcoe. St. S opened its doors in January, joining other Durham locations in Bowmanville (2017) and Pickering (2022).

Jessica Sisk Roehle, the President (International) of Taymax Group, which operates more than 50 Planet Fitness franchises, said that while they don’t have any “immediate plans” to add more locations in the region “the goal is to expand and offer more quality fitness opportunities to underserved communities.”

Planet Fitness had its start in 1992 when founders Michael and Marc Grondahl bought a Gold’s Gym franchise in New Hampshire and ten years later acquired the Planet Fitness name with a focus on serving “everyday people” instead of the bodybuilding crowd Gold’s was known for.

“Planet Fitness prides itself on providing a high-quality experience at an exceptional value and being home of the ‘Judgement Free Zone’ where members experience a hassle-free, non-intimidating environment,” Roehle said. “We place equal emphasis on affordability, high quality and a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone, no matter where they are in their fitness journey.”

Planet Fitness offers state of the art cardio machines and strength equipment, a 30-Minute Express Circuit, numerous flat screen televisions, fully equipped locker rooms with day lockers and showers and is open 24/7.

Then club is also known for its inexpensive fees, with memberships starting at $15 per month with a ‘Black Card’ membership (transferable to any location) at just $24.99 a month.

With many Canadians only now returning to normal activities after a three year health crisis, Roehle believes it’s the perfect time to join a health club and put the pandemic in the rear-view mirror.

A study released in April 2021 found that Canadians over the age of 18 who were suffering from pandemic-related stress, depression, and anxiety, were less likely to engage in physical activity and exercise, while individuals who were able to maintain good levels of physical activity showed better mental health, she explained. “The new club will provide a safe place for everyone to exercise and better both their physical and mental wellbeing.”

The Oshawa Planet Fitness club is located at the former Zellers Plaza, adjacent to the Oshawa Markets, at Simcoe Street and First Avenue. Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter and members of the Oshawa Generals hockey team will be on hand at the grand opening Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.