If you’ve ever wondered how old do you have to be to go to the gym, you’re not alone. Parents, teens, and even gym owners get this question all the time—and the answer isn’t always the same.

Quick answer: In most U.S. gyms, you must be at least 16 years old to work out unsupervised, and 13–15 with a parent, guardian, or signed waiver. Rules can vary by gym chain, location, and state law.
Source: Planet Fitness & YMCA

In this guide, updated for August 2025, we’ll break down the minimum age requirements for popular U.S. gyms, share safety tips for younger gym-goers, and answer the most common questions parents and teens have about starting a workout routine.

What’s the Typical Minimum Age for a Gym Membership?

While policies vary, many U.S. gyms stick to a standard structure:

  • 16+ years old – Usually allowed to work out on your own without supervision.
  • 13–15 years old – Allowed with a parent, guardian, or signed consent form.
  • 12 years old or younger – Often restricted to youth programs, swimming pools, or kids’ classes.

What’s the Typical Minimum Age for a Gym Membership

This is a general rule of thumb, but each gym brand has its own specifics—sometimes even location by location.

Minimum Age Requirements by Popular U.S. Gym Chains

Here’s a comparison of well-known fitness chains and their minimum age policies:

Gym Chain Minimum Age Unsupervised Supervised/With Waiver Notes
Planet Fitness 16+ 13–15 with parent/guardian Parent must be a member; some states have a higher age of majority (19)
LA Fitness 16+ 13–15 with waiver & parent signature Under 13 not allowed in weight/cardio areas
Crunch Fitness 16+ 13–15 with guardian present May vary by location
YMCA 15+ 12–14 with orientation & supervision Offers youth programs & sports
24 Hour Fitness 18+ (some locations) 12–17 with parent/guardian Varies by state & club
Anytime Fitness 18+ 13–17 with parent/guardian member Some require safety orientation

Always check your local club’s official policy before signing up.

Minimum Age Requirements by Popular U.S. Gym Chains

Why Do Gyms Have Age Restrictions?

Gyms implement age requirements for three main reasons:

  • Safety – Proper equipment use and injury prevention are especially important for developing bodies.
  • Liability – Insurance rules and state laws protect both the gym and the member.
  • Member Experience – Ensuring a comfortable environment for both youth and adults.

Why Do Gyms Have Age Restrictions

Is It Safe for Teens to Start Working Out?

Yes—when done with proper guidance. According to the Mayo Clinic, strength and cardio training can benefit teens by building muscle, improving coordination, and supporting mental health. The key is age-appropriate training.

  • Learn proper form first before adding heavier weights.
  • Focus on bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, and planks.
  • Avoid max lifting until growth plates are fully developed.
  • Consider working with a trainer experienced in youth fitness.

Is It Safe for Teens to Start Working Out

How to Sign Up a Teen for the Gym

If you’re signing up someone under 18, you’ll usually need:

  1. A parent or guardian present during sign-up.
  2. Proof of age (school ID, driver’s permit, or birth certificate).
  3. A signed waiver covering liability and supervision terms.
  4. Completion of a youth orientation if required by the gym.

Tip: Call ahead to confirm—franchise-owned gyms often set their own rules.

FAQs About Age and Gym Memberships

1. Can a 12-year-old go to the gym?

Most gyms do not allow 12-year-olds in standard workout areas unless they’re in a supervised kids’ program, sports training session, or swimming activity.

2. Do gyms have teen summer passes?

Yes—chains like Planet Fitness have offered free High School Summer Pass programs for ages 14–19, which run seasonally and vary by year.

3. Can a parent sign a waiver for a teen to work out alone?

Yes, most gyms allow 13–15-year-olds to work out with a parent-signed waiver, but often with supervision rules or limited access to certain equipment.

4. Are there state laws about gym age requirements?

There’s no federal law, but some states (like Alabama and Nebraska) set the legal age of majority at 19, which can affect contract terms for teens.

Final Thoughts: The Right Age Is About Readiness, Not Just Rules

So, how old do you have to be to go to the gym? Most of the time, the magic number is 16 for solo workouts, with 13–15 allowed alongside a guardian. But readiness isn’t only about age—it’s about maturity, safety, and having the right support.

Choose a gym that fits your needs, understand the rules, and prioritize safe, effective training. With the right mindset and supervision, the gym can be a positive, confidence-boosting place for teens and adults alike.