Quick Answer
Yes, LA Fitness hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.
With over 700 clubs across North America, LA Fitness offers accessible fitness jobs such as Front Desk Associate ($13–$16/hour), Membership Counselor ($13–$16/hour + commission), Personal Trainer ($16–$28/hour + commission), and Kids Klub Attendant ($13–$16/hour).
Many employees with prior convictions have successfully advanced from entry-level to management positions, including Operations Manager ($19–$29/hour) and General Manager ($22–$36/hour).
About LA Fitness
LA Fitness operates more than 700 full-service fitness clubs across the United States and Canada.
Each location typically includes cardio and strength training areas, group fitness classes, swimming pools, racquetball and basketball courts, and personal training services.
Founded in 1984, the company employs around 30,000 people and is known for promoting from within.
For individuals with criminal records, LA Fitness offers accessible employment pathways through:
Front desk and membership sales positions
Personal training roles with performance-based income
Operations and club management advancement
Multiple shifts and flexible hours suitable for reentry
LA Fitness Hiring Policy for People with Felonies
LA Fitness evaluates applicants individually rather than automatically disqualifying anyone with a criminal record. Hiring decisions are made at the club or district level, depending on the nature of the conviction, how much time has passed, and the specific job applied for.
What LA Fitness Considers
Nature and severity of the conviction
Time elapsed since conviction (3–5+ years is favorable)
Relevance to gym or childcare work
Member and staff safety considerations
Rehabilitation efforts and recent work history
Commonly Accepted Convictions
Non-violent offenses, property crimes, drug-related charges, and DUI convictions are often considered depending on circumstances.
More Difficult Cases
Violent crimes, sexual offenses, theft from employers, or crimes involving children (especially in Kids Klub roles) face higher scrutiny.
Available Jobs at LA Fitness for People with Records
Front Desk Associate
($13–$16/hour)
Greets members, checks in guests, answers phones, handles payments, schedules training sessions, and maintains front desk cleanliness in a fast-paced customer service role.
Membership Counselor (Sales)
($13–$16/hour + commission; total $20–$30/hour possible)
Provides gym tours, sells memberships, builds client relationships, and meets sales goals through strong communication and service skills.
Personal Trainer
($16–$28/hour + commission; total $25–$45/hour possible)
Designs customized fitness programs, teaches safe exercise form, motivates clients, and sells training packages to grow clientele and income.
Kids Klub Attendant
($13–$16/hour)
Supervises children while parents work out, creates fun activities, ensures safety, and communicates with parents about Kids Klub policies.
Group Fitness Instructor
($20–$35/hour per class)
Leads group fitness sessions such as yoga, Zumba, spin, or boot camp, motivating participants and maintaining certifications for class specialties.
Operations Manager
($40,000–$60,000/year or approximately $19–$29/hour)
Oversees daily club operations, supervises staff, manages maintenance and scheduling, and supports the general manager to ensure member satisfaction.
General Manager
($50,000–$75,000/year or approximately $24–$36/hour + bonuses)
Leads full club operations, including staff hiring, performance goals, membership growth, and financial results. Typically promoted from within after several years of success.
Background Check and Drug Testing
LA Fitness conducts a standard background check covering up to seven years of criminal history (state-dependent). Evaluations include county and state records, sex offender registry, and employment verification.
Disqualifying Factors:
Recent violent or sexual offenses
Crimes involving children
Active warrants
Drug Testing: Most clubs perform pre-employment drug testing after a conditional offer. Random testing may occur depending on local management policies.
Application Tips
Apply to 5–10 LA Fitness clubs since each manager makes independent hiring decisions.
Target Front Desk or Membership Counselor roles for best entry-level opportunities.
Earn a personal training certification (NASM, ACE, ISSA) to increase pay and career potential.
Visit clubs in person after applying online to make a personal impression.
Be open about your background briefly and professionally when asked.
Emphasize reliability, fitness passion, and customer service strengths.
Highlight any sales or gym experience to stand out from other applicants.
Mention flexible availability, especially evenings and weekends.
Apply to multiple fitness chains for higher chances of quick placement.
Maintain fitness goals personally—demonstrating enthusiasm aligns with LA Fitness culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LA Fitness hire people with felonies?
Yes. LA Fitness hires people with felony convictions case-by-case. Many employees with prior records currently work in front desk, sales, and personal training roles.
What is the most accessible position?
Front Desk Associate ($13–$16/hour) is the most accessible, followed by Membership Counselor and Personal Trainer for those with certifications.
Can I work at LA Fitness with a violent conviction?
It’s difficult due to member safety concerns. Older non-violent cases (10+ years) may be reviewed individually.
How far back does LA Fitness background check go?
Typically seven years, depending on state law and the position applied for.
Does LA Fitness automatically reject felons?
No. Evaluations depend on conviction type, timing, and position duties.
Can I work at LA Fitness while on probation or parole?
Yes, many employees do. Communicate scheduling needs clearly and maintain reliability.
Does LA Fitness drug test?
Yes, usually after a conditional offer, and occasionally at random depending on club policy.
Can felons become personal trainers?
Yes. Personal training certifications (NASM, ACE, ISSA) have no restrictions, and many trainers with records earn strong income through performance-based sales.
Is LA Fitness felon-friendly?
Yes. LA Fitness is considered felon-friendly in 2025 due to its case-by-case hiring approach and promotion opportunities.
What benefits does LA Fitness offer?
Full-time employees receive health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, free gym membership, and advancement opportunities.
Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies
Planet Fitness – 2,400+ locations; front desk and custodian roles often accessible.
24 Hour Fitness – 400+ clubs; similar hiring structure and sales-based jobs.
Anytime Fitness – 5,000+ franchises; local owners make flexible decisions.
Gold’s Gym – Focuses on training and front desk customer service.
Crunch Fitness – Comparable model with sales and personal training positions.
YMCA – Nonprofit, community-based gyms that hire inclusively case-by-case.
Final Thoughts
LA Fitness provides strong reentry opportunities for people rebuilding their lives through fitness careers. With 700+ clubs, flexible roles, and advancement from front desk to general management, it remains one of the most accessible fitness employers in 2025.
Key Takeaways:
Case-by-case evaluation
Front Desk and Membership Counselor most accessible
Personal Trainer certification unlocks higher pay
Management growth through internal promotion
Free gym membership and benefits for employees
Start here: Visit LAFitness.com/careers or stop by your local LA Fitness club to apply in person.
Does LA Fitness Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: January 2026
Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center
Industry:
Food & Hospitality
Pay:
$15.00 – $35.00/hour
Location:
Alaska
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