Planet Fitness “judgment free zone,” this gym has a “lunk alarm”.

Planet Fitness “judgment free zone,” this gym has  a lunk alarm.

North Kingtowners with New Year’s resolutions to get fit this year just got a big boost this past month with the opening of Planet Fitness.

The chain of “judgment-free zone” gyms brought its newest location to the Hunt River Commons, anchored by Marshalls and Stop & Shop, on Dec. 12. With more than 2,000 members already signed up, the gym has received a warm welcome. Between the gym’s operating hours and low prices, it’s easy to see why.

This “24/5” gym is open continuously from Monday at midnight to Friday at 9 p.m. and open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, ideal for those looking for a workout at nearly any hour. Though the hours are a big draw for incoming members, Senior Manager Amy Valletta points to another facet of Planet Fitness for why the gym has drawn such a large following.

“The price is a big factor,” said Valletta. “A lot of people come here because of it.”

Members can join Planet Fitness for as low as $10 a month with no commitment. For an upgraded “Black Card” membership ($20 a month), clients can visit any Planet Fitness, enjoy unlimited guest passes at their host gym, use the gym’s tanning booths for free and get half off beverages.

Though they may not offer perks such as summer camps, swim classes, child care, yoga classes and cooking classes offered at the West Bay YMCA, Planet Fitness boasts a creed that’s completely its own. The self-proclaimed “judgment free zone,” this gym has something most fitness centers don’t feature: a lunk alarm.

According to a sign hanging below the lunk alarm, a “lunk” is defined as “one who grunts, drops weights or judges.” Looking to deter the bodybuilders and so-called “lunks,” the “lunk alarm” is set off when a member excessively grunts or drops weights.  

“My ears are trained to hear those weights dropping,” said Valletta, who has worked for Planet Fitness since 2004.

Dumbbells are maxed out at 75 lbs. to minimize lunk behavior and foster a “comfortable” environment for members.

Planet Fitness’ North Kingstown location boasts 80 pieces of cardio – ellipticals, treadmills, arc trainers and bikes – and no time limits or waiting lines for the machines.  Another unique feature of Planet Fitness is the 30-minute circuit. Clients alternate between steps and machines to get in an “express” full body workout.

“If someone’s in a rush, you can hop in that room and get a fully body workout in just 30 minutes,” said Valletta.