I signed up for the "Black Card" membership ($20/month) over a year ago and was fairly pleased with the experience of working out here. While the service isn't *exceptional*, the price is right and everything is well maintained. I'm sure the "Black Card" membership is perfect for many customers (tanning and aqua massages included, plus free guest daily), I found I wasn't using the additional services. I don't tan or use the massage tables and I rarely bring people with me to work out. But I made a one year comitment to the higher price, which was fine. That was my choice and I can live with cost. The problem came when I tried to downgrade to the $10/month option after my year commitment ended. The gentlman I spoke with told me that I would have to pay a $50 "activation fee" (which was waived when I opted for the year commitment). An "activation fee" after having been a member for 14 months? That's sort of insane after also paying a $40 membership fee each year. When you add in the cost of activation fee and membership fee, I've been paying approximately $28/month. There are plenty of options for health clubs in the $30 range that will even include pools & fitness classes (zumba, yoga, spin, etc.), which Planet Fitness does not offer.
Again, I think there are many customers who can benefit from the black card membership. I'm simply saying that I don't think it is asking too much that someone who fulfilled the terms of their commitment not be taken advantage of when they are trying to continue their membership at a price that fits his/her needs.