Physical fitness is a necessity for all, but especially first responders, as the nature of the work demands a body familiar with motion and exertion.
But which fitness club should you join?
The cost of a gym membership in 2025 can range from generally affordable to astronomical, depending on the club, amenities, facilities, perks and benefits package you choose. For responders looking for a bit of a financial reprieve, check out our list of gyms that offer discounts for first responders, as well as what you’ll need to do to have a first responder discount applied to your gym membership.
LA Fitness
The LA Fitness brand was established in Southern California in 1984 and has expanded to more than 800 locations across the country. The fitness club offers a variety of classes, educational lifestyle content and personal training.
Services vary by location, but most LA Fitness facilities offer:
- Group fitness classes, including water aerobics, yoga, high-energy cardio and more
- Personal training instruction
- Recovery services, including cryotherapy, massage beds and compression therapy
Does LA Fitness offer a first responder discount?
Yes, LA Fitness offers a $39.99 membership to first responders with no activation fee.
How to claim this offer: To receive the discount, visit your local LA Fitness location and bring proof of employment.
Find and join an LA Fitness near you.
Planet Fitness
Founded in Dover, New Hampshire, in 1992, Planet Fitness has expanded to more than 2,700 locations in all 50 states, as well as multiple international locations. Know for their “Judgement Free Zones” and bright purple aesthetic, the brand caters to people who don’t feel like they fit in with the clients at traditional fitness centers by creating a “non-intimidating environment.”
Depending on membership level, Planet Fitness offers:
- Round-the-clock access
- Fitness training
- Massage beds
- Tanning services
- Digital workouts
Does Planet Fitness offer a first responder discount?
While Planet Fitness does not typically offer a discount for first responders, Los Angeles-area firefighters with a valid proof of employment are eligible for a free PF Black Card membership through the end of 2025, in support of their work during the Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year.
How to claim this offer: To take advantage of this offer, bring your proof of employment to any Planet Fitness location in Ventura, Riverside, Los Angeles, San Bernadino or Orange county.
Find and join a Planet Fitness near you.
24 Hour Fitness
Established in 1983, 24 Hour Fitness is the second-largest fitness center chain in the U.S. by revenue, with 287 locations in 11 states. With round-the-clock availability, first responders can take advantage of any available time in their schedule to work out, day or night.
24 Hour Fitness membership levels offer a variety of services, including:
- Round-the-clock facility access
- Fitness classes, including groups and water programs
- Nationwide access to 24 Hour Fitness facilities
- Steam room
- Sauna
- Hot tub
Does 24 Hour Fitness offer a first responder discount?
Yes, the 24 Hour Fitness offers a standard discount for first responders at all of their locations nationwide. Responders can choose between a $5 discount off their monthly payment of a gold or platinum membership, or 5% off the total if paying for a year membership in advance.
How to claim this offer: To receive the discount, bring proof of employment to your local 24 Hour Fitness.
Find and join a 24 Hour Fitness near you.
Orangetheory Fitness
Orangetheory Fitness, a boutique fitness studio franchise, opened its first location in Fort Lauderdale in 2010. In 2024, the company merged with Anytime Fitness, resulting in more than 7,000 locations around the globe. The company offers a “dynamic blend of strength and cardio training” through three different class types facilitated by certificed coaches:
- Orange 60: The “signature” Orangetheory class is 60 minutes and focuses on improving metabolism and burning calories post-workout.
- Tread 50: This 50-minute class aims to improve endurance and running performance, with the goal of boosting stamina.
- Strength 50: This strength-building class is 50 minutes and aims to enhance muscular endurance and increase overall power.
Does Orangetheory Fitness offer a first responder discount?
Some Orangetheory Fitness locations offer a $10/month discount for first responders, if eligibility criteria is met.
How to claim this offer: To inquire about a discount, bring proof of employment to your local Orangetheory Fitness.
Find and join an Orangetheory Fitness near you.
Genesis Health Clubs
Founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 1986, there are now Genesis Health Clubs in 11 states across the country. Self-described as “the most well-rounded gym experience in the midwest,” Genesis Health Clubs offer a variety of member services, including:
- Fitness classes
- Personal training instruction
- Tennis lessons
- Youth camps
Does Genesis Health Clubs offer a first responder discount?
While some locations offer a first responder discount, not all do. Contact your local club to see if they offer a first responder discount.
How to claim this offer: To take advantage of an available discount, bring proof of employment to your local club.
Find and join a Genesis Health Club near you.
Anytime Fitness
Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness swelled to more than 5,200 locations, including in China — becoming the first U.S.-based fitness chain to be granted a franchising license in the country. In 2024, Anytime Fitness announced a merger with Orangetheory Fitness; there are now more than 7,000 locations around the world.
An Anytime Fitness membership can include:
- Personalized fitness plan
- 24/7 access to facilities nationwide
- Small group and team training
- Body composition sculpting
- Group classes
Does Anytime Fitness offer a first responder discount?
According the Anytime Fitness website, yes, they offer a first responder discount. However, “it is up to each location to opt-in to offer the discount,” the site reads, with a recommendation to check with your local club.
How to claim this offer: If available, be prepared to provide some proof of employment.
Find and join an Anytime Fitness near you.
Crunch Fitness
Crunch Fitness was the first gym to offer zumba classes, in line with its 1989 founding goal of providing entertainment and variety. The brand now boasts more than 500 locations worldwide and an online fitness streaming platform — Crunch+ — which offers live and on-demand workouts.
At Crunch Fitness locations, memberships can include:
- Group classes
- Personal trainers
- HydroMassage beds
- Tanning
- Location-specific amenities
Does Crunch Fitness offer a first responder discount?
While Crunch Fitness does offer a first responder discount, it is up to individual locations to opt-in to offer it. Check to see if your local Crunch Fitness offers a discount for first responders.
How to claim this offer: To take advantage of this discount, you will need to verify your employment through ID.me, an online verification tool.
Find and join a Crunch Fitness near you.
