News Summary
Planet Fitness is set to open a new gym in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, marking its first location in the city. The facility, which will operate 24/7, aims to create 10 to 15 jobs and will include various fitness amenities. Plans for significant renovations have been submitted to city officials, with a public hearing scheduled for review. This development promises to revitalize a former retail space, providing the community with enhanced access to wellness services.
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin Welcomes New Planet Fitness Location
Planet Fitness has announced plans to establish a new gym at 3203 N. Mayfair Road in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, marking its first location in the city and the 13th in Milwaukee County. The new fitness center will occupy a space previously held by American Freight, a retailer that ceased operations last year.
The new facility aims to operate around the clock, providing convenient access for members at any time. It is expected to create employment opportunities for approximately 10 to 15 staff members. The plans for the gym include extensive modifications to the site, which was vacated by American Freight and currently features a retail center that includes an AtHome store, also facing closure soon.
The plans for the fitness center were submitted to the Wauwatosa city officials by pb2 architecture + engineering, a firm based in Arkansas. Among the modifications proposed for the new location are significant changes to the interior layout and some exterior enhancements, notably the demolition of the existing steel canopy from the front facade.
The facility will offer a wide range of amenities that include tanning booths, hydromassage beds, a functional training area, as well as various strength and cardio equipment. This aligns with Planet Fitness’s mission to provide a welcoming environment to individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds.
A key step in the development of the new gym includes a public hearing scheduled for Wauwatosa’s Common Council meeting on Tuesday, where a conditional use permit for the project will be discussed and reviewed. This step is crucial in the approval process, as community feedback and council review help ensure that the development aligns with local regulations and the community’s needs.
**Background Information**
Planet Fitness is a nationally recognized fitness franchise known for its affordable membership options and its commitment to fostering a non-intimidating atmosphere for gym-goers. The company’s expansion into Wauwatosa signifies its ongoing growth strategy, particularly in densely populated metropolitan areas where health and fitness facilities are in demand.
Historically, the location at N. Mayfair Road has been a bustling site for retail. However, with the closure of American Freight and the impending closure of the AtHome store, the addition of a fitness center could bring renewed vitality to the area. The realignment of retail space to house fitness-related services is a growing trend as more consumers seek health-focused lifestyles.
The decision to operate 24 hours adds an appealing aspect for potential members, especially those with busy schedules who may prefer to work out outside of conventional business hours. The introduction of additional wellness features, like hydromassage beds, further demonstrates Planet Fitness’s commitment to enhancing members’ overall fitness experience.
In conclusion, the development of a Planet Fitness gym in Wauwatosa is set to transform the former retail site into a hub for health and wellness, providing residents access to comprehensive fitness facilities and opportunities for employment. As the date of the public hearing approaches, community stakeholders and residents are keenly observing the plans that will shape the new addition to their local area.
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Additional Resources
- JSONline: Crunch Fitness to Open Gyms in Brookfield, Greenfield, and Waukesha
- Wikipedia: Fitness Culture
- Fox6Now: Trainer Fired Over “I Can’t Breathe” Workout at Wauwatosa Gym
- Google Search: Fitness Trends
- Patch: Planet Fitness Headed to Falls
- Google Scholar: Fitness Franchises
- CNN: Fitness Trainer Fired for “I Can’t Breathe” Workout
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Exercise
- NBC News: Flash Flooding Slams Midwest
- Google News: Gyms Opening 2024

Author: STAFF HERE MILWAUKEE WRITER
MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER The MILWAUKEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMilwaukee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Milwaukee, Milwaukee County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Summerfest, Milwaukee Film Festival, and the Milwaukee Boat Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce and Visit Milwaukee, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and brewing that power the local economy such as Harley-Davidson and MillerCoors. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Wisconsin's dynamic landscape.