Many clubs are taking advantage of the opportunity to tap into the Gen Z market by helping aid in teen well-being this summer.
It’s no secret teens are embracing fitness for both its physical and mental health benefits. They’re more familiar than ever with strength training techniques and workout ideas thanks to their teachers, their friends and online research.
According to Les Mills’ Gen Z Fitness: Cracking the Code global report, Gen Z will have a bigger impact on the fitness market than any generation before them, presenting a transformative opportunity for clubs. And many clubs are taking advantage of the opportunity to tap into this market of 2 billion people through summer passes.
Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness announced the return of its High School Summer Pass program, inviting high school teens ages 14–19 to work out for free at any of its 2,500-plus locations across the U.S. and Canada this summer, between June 1 and August 31. Since the High School Summer Pass program began, Planet Fitness has invested more than $200 million in waived membership dues to promote youth health and wellness and improve the physical and mental health of millions of teens.
The High School Summer Pass program kicked off during Mental Health Awareness Month to help teens prioritize their physical and mental health during a critical time of year when school is out, and important academic or extracurricular activities are on pause.
In fact, the American Heart Association has found that only 25% of teens complete the recommended one hour of physical activity per day, and screen time is partially to blame. Research also shows that 9 out of 10 teens agree physical activity improves their overall mental health, and a recent Journal of the American Medical Association Pediatrics study determined physical fitness among children and adolescents may protect against developing depression, anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; afflictions that have direct correlations to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As the leader in fitness with locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, Planet Fitness is proud to continue to invest in today’s youth by providing free access to fitness during a critical time in their lives,” said Craig Benson, the interim CEO at Planet Fitness. “Many teens continue to be impacted by the long-term mental health impacts from the pandemic, yet studies show that exercise can have a significant, positive impact on teens’ overall wellness. We look forward to welcoming High School Summer Pass participants into our clubs to support them in their health and wellness journeys.”
GoodLife Fitness
GoodLife Fitness is kicking off its 14th year of free Teen Fitness program with a focus on fun, reliable resources and expert advice to help teens expand their knowledge and work out safely and effectively.
By registering for a free GoodLife Teen Fitness membership, teens aged 12 to 17 will have access to nearly 200 GoodLife Fitness clubs from July 3 to September 3. Last year, GoodLife celebrated the most successful Teen Fitness ever with almost 80,000 teens registered and over 400,000 workouts.
“It’s great to see teens so interested and engaged in fitness,” said Tracy Matthews, the vice president of experience and safety at GoodLife Fitness. “They really understand the benefits for their mental and physical health, and they value the chance to spend time with their friends while being active. We’re here to help teens learn more about how to use the equipment and give them workout ideas so they can try different things, make the most of their time at the gym and have fun in the process.”
In the clubs, teens can join in-person group fitness classes with certified instructors and can use most of the equipment, including kettlebells and TRX trainers. For the first time, select GoodLife clubs will also offer Teen Fitness Team Training Camps with motivating workouts and basic fitness knowledge to equip them for longer term fitness programs.
GoodLife will launch a video series targeting teens with the key information they need for effective workouts. Content will include fitness tips from GoodLife experts, demo videos with proper form and technique for various workouts, and sports-specific training programs that will help teens prepare for fall try outs. Registered teens can access the content via the GoodLife app and website, as well as on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
Fitness Connection
Fitness Connection is also bringing back its Student Summer Pass this year. From May 16th through August 31st, high school and college students can sign up for the FC Plus membership with $0 down and just $15 a month. This exclusive offer grants students access to Fitness Connection’s extensive amenities, including state-of-the-art cardio machines, strength training equipment and functional training tools. Furthermore, students can take advantage of group fitness classes, full-size basketball courts, a women’s workout area, and unwind in luxurious locker rooms with saunas and lounge areas.
Katie Freeman, the VP of marketing, underlined the significance of maintaining fitness goals during the summer months, stating, “Summer is a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but it’s also crucial to prioritize our health and well-being. At Fitness Connection, we’re committed to empowering individuals to stay active and committed to their fitness journey year-round. The Student Summer Pass not only offers affordable access to our premium facilities but also encourages students to make fitness a priority during their break.”
Fitness Connection is also extending Kids Club hours from May 28th through September 2nd, ensuring that families can enjoy their workouts worry-free while their children engage in supervised activities. This commitment to enhancing the community’s well-being is a testament to their dedication to providing unparalleled fitness experiences for all members.
