New Planet Fitness Brings Jobs, 24-Hour Fitness To Clayton

CLAYTON, N.C. — Planet Fitness has officially opened its first Clayton location, giving residents access to a 24-hour fitness center while adding 19 jobs to the local economy.

The new 20,000-square-foot club is located at 150 Blakely Street in the Pleasant Crossing Commons shopping center and is operated by Excel Fitness, one of the company’s largest franchise groups.

The facility employs 19 team members, according to General Manager Brandice Fields. The company is continuing to hire for a shift leader position, while all other jobs have been filled.

The new gym features more than 60 pieces of cardio equipment, strength training equipment, free fitness training, dedicated areas for high-intensity interval training, stretching and mobility exercises, and a spa area for Black Card members.

Fields said the Clayton location also offers a Cryolounger, a recovery amenity that is not currently available at nearby Planet Fitness clubs.

Regional Director Jay Chambers said Clayton had been on the company’s expansion radar for several years.

“We’ve actually had Clayton in our sights for quite some time. As one of the fastest-growing communities in North Carolina, it presented a strong opportunity to bring affordable, high-quality fitness options to an area that continues to see significant residential and commercial growth. We recognized an opportunity to better serve local residents and support the community’s commitment to health and wellness.”

Chambers said the response from the community has been encouraging since the club opened.

“We’re especially excited about the partnerships and relationships we’re building within the Clayton community. Since opening, we’ve received a tremendous response from local residents, and the enthusiasm has reinforced our belief that Clayton was the right fit for expansion.”

The Clayton club is Excel Fitness’ 30th Planet Fitness location in the Raleigh-Durham-Fayetteville market.

There is also a Planet Fitness location at 1248 N. Brightleaf Boulevard in Smithfield.

While no additional locations have been announced, Chambers said Johnston County remains a priority for future growth.

“As for additional locations in Johnston County, we continue to view the area as an attractive growth market. We are actively evaluating opportunities throughout the county and have our eye on future expansion as the population and demand for convenient fitness options continue to grow. While we don’t have any specific announcements to make at this time, we are working on several opportunities within the market and remain committed to serving the region for years to come.”

Planet Fitness memberships at the Clayton location begin at $15 per month, with additional membership options available.