Planet Fitness HydroMassage: How It Works, and Cost
Planet Fitness HydroMassage is included with the Black Card membership for $24.99 per month, with sessions typically lasting 10 minutes.
But how does it work, who can use it, and how often can you use it? This article explains how to access and use HydroMassage, its controls, safety concerns, reservations, guest access, and how it compares with Total Body Enhancement.
Table of contents
How Does Planet Fitness HydroMassage Work?
To give you an overview of what a hydroMassage chair is and how it works, we gathered information about the hydroMassage chair from Planet fitness's official website, official locations, social media handles, and customer reviews.
Type |
Lay-down water bed or reclined lounge chair, covered with a waterproof barrier. |
Its features |
Touchscreen controls, targeted body zones, adjustable pressure and speed, heated water waves, entertainment options. |
What it does |
Use warm water jets beneath the surface to massage your body without getting wet. |
Private or public? |
Semi-private or open spa area, not a fully enclosed private room. |
Session length |
Usually 10–20 minutes, with no single fixed session time set by Planet Fitness. |
Controls in the machine |
Pressure 1–10, speed 1–4, target-area sliders, spot-focus controls, touchscreen settings. |
Its benefits |
Muscle recovery, improved circulation, reduced physical tension, stress relief, post-workout comfort. |
The Structure |
Reclined or flat bed-style design, waterproof barrier, water jets underneath, integrated touchscreen display. |
Brand Name |
WellnessSpace Brands, formerly known as HydroMassage, manufactures the equipment used at Planet Fitness. |
If you are comparing Planet Fitness wellness features, you can also explore our guide to Planet Fitness red light therapy.
How Much Does Planet Fitness HydroMassage Cost?
Planet Fitness HydroMassage is included with the PF Black Card membership, which costs $24.99 per month. So, Black Card members can use HydroMassage without paying an extra fee.
For more options focused on recovery and relaxation, check out our guide to gyms with massage chairs.
How to Use HydroMassage at Planet Fitness?
First Things First: Who Can Use HydroMassage at Planet Fitness?
You can use the HydroMassage at Planet Fitness only if you meet the age and membership requirements.
Requirement |
What You Need to Use HydroMassage |
Age |
18+ or 15–17 with a parent/guardian waiver. |
Membership |
Black Card Membership |
Now That You’re Eligible, Where Can You Find HydroMassage?
Here’s where you can look to find the HydroMassage at Planet Fitness. 👇
Where to Find HydroMassage |
What to Do |
Where It’s Usually Found |
Inside the Black Card Spa area |
You Found It—Now How Do You Access the HydroMassage?
Here’s what you need to do before using HydroMassage at Planet Fitness. 👇
Best Ways to access HydroMassage at Planet Fitness |
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So, How Do You Use HydroMassage at Planet Fitness?
Make Sure to Wear the Right Clothing
Your clothing can affect how you use HydroMassage, so keep these points in mind.
Item |
Best Choice |
Clothing |
You can generally wear your standard gym attire while using the machine |
Shoes |
No Shoes recommended |
Accessories |
Make sure to use it with empty pockets |
Check the Machine Controls
Know what each control on HydroMassage does before your session. 👇
Button |
Function |
Use |
End Session |
Stops the machine |
Press it to end the session immediately. |
Pressure Slider |
Adjusts jet intensity |
Increase or decrease the pressure for comfort. |
Speed Slider |
Controls jet speed |
Adjust the speed to your preference. |
Massage Range |
Sets the massage area |
Choose the body area you want to target. |
Here's What to Do During Your Session
Follow these steps while using HydroMassage. 👇
No |
Things you do during HydroMassage (session) |
1 |
Lie back and use the headrest if needed. |
2 |
Check the timer to track your session. |
3 |
Adjust the massage range, pressure, and speed to your comfort. |
4 |
Relax and use the screen or headphones for calming audio. |
When Is Your HydroMassage Session Done?
Know when your HydroMassage session ends and how to stop it early. 👇
Session length |
10-minute countdown |
Options to end session |
Automatic & Manual |
To End the Session Early |
Press the red End Session button in the top-right corner. |
Finished Your HydroMassage Session? Here’s What’s Next
Follow these steps after using HydroMassage at Planet Fitness. 👇
No |
Things you do after that |
1 |
Spray and wipe down the HydroMassage unit after use. |
Who Should Avoid HydroMassage?
According to Healthline, hydromassage isn’t safe for everyone and may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions.
The source states that pregnant people, individuals with high blood pressure (hypertension), and those with bleeding disorders should avoid hydromassage.
Healthline also notes that hydromassage can cause potential problems such as burns from excessive heat, worsening skin rashes, bruising, nerve injuries, and, in rare cases, blood clots.
Because of these risks, people with underlying medical conditions should speak with a doctor before trying hydromassage to determine whether it is appropriate and safe for them.
If HydroMassage is one of several recovery features you are considering, read our comparison of gyms with the best recovery amenities.
How Often Can You Use HydroMassage at Planet Fitness?
You can usually use HydroMassage at Planet Fitness once a day. This gives you a chance to enjoy the massage without overusing the equipment.
If you want to use it regularly, you can make it part of your daily gym routine and enjoy a relaxing session after your workout.
If you are comparing membership perks beyond HydroMassage, check out our guide to Planet Fitness vs Crunch.
Can Planet Fitness Guests Use HydroMassage?
No, Planet Fitness guests cannot use HydroMassage. It is part of the Black Card Spa area, which is only available to Black Card members.
Guests can use the basic gym and floor amenities but cannot access the HydroMassage area.
Can You Reserve HydroMassage at Planet Fitness?
You generally cannot book Planet Fitness HydroMassage far in advance. Since HydroMassage stations can be busy, availability may change throughout the day.
If you want to use one and it is currently occupied, you can reserve an available time at the front desk.
Some locations also have a touchscreen kiosk that shows available time slots, allowing you to choose and reserve a time directly.
For another option when comparing gym amenities and membership costs, explore our guide to Planet Fitness vs Chuze Fitness.
HydroMassage vs. Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness
Below is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between HydroMassage and Total Body Enhancement at Planet Fitness.
Comparison |
HydroMassage |
Total Body Enhancement |
Main Feature |
Post-workout muscle relaxation and recovery. |
Post-workout recovery and relaxation. |
How It Works |
Heated water jets massage your body through a waterproof barrier. |
You will get a red light therapy session with a vibration plate. |
How It Looks |
Typically looks like a padded, open lounge bed or lounger |
Private Standing Booth |
Membership Cost |
$24.99 |
$24.99 |
Session Length |
10 minutes |
12 minutes |
How Often to Use |
once per day |
2 to 3 times per week Recommended |