Planet Fitness to offer free at-home workout classes via live stream

Some gyms across the nation are closing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t workout. Planet Fitness, one of the nation’s largest chain gyms, is offering free online classes starting today, because of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The at-home workouts began streaming on the company’s Facebook page March 16. These classes are open to anyone, including non-members.

“Our daily routines have changed in unexpected ways, and we know that people may not be able to get to the gym. That’s why we’re offering a free, daily virtual fitness class for everyone on Planet Fitness’ Facebook page from Monday through Friday,” said Jeremy Tucker, chief marketing officer of Planet Fitness, in a statement to USA TODAY. 

The workouts will be live-streamed at 7 p.m. ET each day for the next two weeks. And if you can’t make it live, the workouts will be available on-demand on Facebook and in Planet Fitness’ YouTube channel. No equipment is needed, and the classes last 20 minutes or less.

Tucker said that virtual classes “will be led by Planet Fitness certified trainers, as well as special guests like ‘The Biggest Loser’ coach and fitness trainer Erica Lugo, among others. The home workouts will offer tools to combat stress, while providing motivation and inspiration sure to keep us all physically and mentally fit.”

With President Donald Trump on Monday calling for Americans to avoid social gatherings of more than 10 people, most gyms will feel the impact immediately.

“We are calling this movement ‘United We Move’ because we know that the best way to stay healthy both physically and mentally is to stay active,” added Tucker.

The gym chain has consistently grown its revenue in the past three years, with a total revenue stream of $174.4 million for 2018. 

Follow Josh Rivera on Twitter: @Josh1Rivera