New York City has partnered with Planet Fitness for a second year, offering the High School Summer Pass™ program. The initiative gives NYC high school students aged 14-19 complimentary access to fitness facilities throughout the summer.
Mayor Eric Adams and Schools Chancellor David C. Banks made the partnership announcement stating students’ physical fitness should not end at the end of the school year.
The program, which has entered its second year, grants teenagers free access to all Planet Fitness clubs across the city’s five boroughs until August 31.
It aims to provide a safe environment where teenagers can focus on their physical and mental health during the summer break, often characterized by limited access to sports and fitness activities.
Mayor Adams spoke passionately about the initiative, stating, “Encouraging our young people to stay active, embrace a healthy lifestyle, and make the most of a judgment-free space can promote wellness and empower the next generation of New Yorkers.”
He lauded the collaboration between NYC Public Schools and Planet Fitness, expressing his admiration for their joint commitment to offering free fitness access for the city’s teenagers.
In addition to the accessible fitness facilities, students who join the program will also have access to free fitness training from certified trainers and workouts designed specifically for high school students.
Schools Chancellor Banks shared the Mayor’s enthusiasm, adding, “While the school year may be coming to a close, it is essential our young people continue to prioritize their wellbeing and engage in healthy and enriching activities.”
Planet Fitness is one of the largest gym franchises, running 2,400 gyms in the United States and Canada. The fitness center encourages students to participate in healthy activities for better mental and physical health.
By confronting the concerning data indicating that many teens struggle with their overall wellness, including the 22% of 12 to 19-year-olds in the U.S. who are classified as obese, the program provides a critical avenue for addressing these health issues.
The High School Summer Pass program encourages an active lifestyle and builds an environment where the city’s young people can focus on their physical and mental health in a safe and supportive environment. This is particularly important given the finding from the Wired Research survey that 61% of teenagers are dealing with mental health challenges.
The program also included a contest called the High School Summer Pass Contest. Five lucky participants in the U.S. can win individual academic scholarships worth $10,000 each. Visit PlanetFitness.com/SummerPass for more information.
