Planet Fitness vs Churchill Downs

Planet Fitness, Inc. and Churchill Downs Incorporated are compared on this page to illuminate differences in business models, financial performance, and market context. The content presents neutral, accessible information about how each company operates, generates revenue, and positions itself within its industry. This educational content helps readers understand the landscape without offering guidance. Educational content, not financial advice.

Planet Fitness, Inc. and Churchill Downs Incorporated are compared on this page to illuminate differences in business models, financial performance, and market context. The content presents neutral, a...

Comparison Snapshot

Key Financial Metrics

PLNT

Metric

CHDN

$8.08B

Market Cap

$7.24B

31.64%

Potential Profit

34.31%

Buy

Analyst Rating

Buy

Investment Analysis

Planet Fitness

PLNT

Pros

Planet Fitness reported a strong Q3 2025 earnings beat with both EPS and revenue exceeding analyst expectations, indicating robust profitability and growth.
The company raised its full-year outlook following the Q3 results, demonstrating positive operational momentum and confidence in future performance.
Planet Fitness operates a scalable franchise model across multiple countries, providing diversified geographic growth opportunities.

Considerations

The stock experienced a slight decline of approximately 4.4% in the month prior to the Q3 earnings surge, indicating some recent investor caution.
High price-to-earnings ratio around 42.3 suggests valuation may be elevated, potentially limiting near-term upside without continued strong growth.
The fitness industry faces competitive pressures and potential cyclical sensitivities related to consumer discretionary spending.

Churchill Downs

CHDN

Pros

Churchill Downs has a diversified revenue base, combining live horse racing, casino gaming, and online wagering platforms.
The company benefits from strong brand recognition and a leading market position in the horse racing and gaming industry.
Continued expansion into online betting offers a scalable growth avenue, leveraging increasing legalization across US states.

Considerations

Churchill Downs' traditional live racetrack business segment is subject to regulatory risks and changing consumer habits toward digital entertainment.
The company’s earnings can be volatile and sensitive to economic cycles affecting discretionary spending on gaming and entertainment.
Investments in expanding digital offerings require ongoing capital and operational risks in a competitive and rapidly evolving market.

About The Companies

Planet Fitness (PLNT)

Planet Fitness, Inc. (PLNT) operates one of the largest budget gym chains in the United States, offering low-cost memberships focused on casual exercisers rather than hardcore gym-goers. Its asset-light, franchise-heavy model provides recurring revenue from membership fees and franchise royalties, while corporate stores contribute directly to revenue and cash flow. Investors should note the company’s emphasis on scale, value pricing and brand awareness, which can support steady membership growth but also invite intense competition. Growth drivers include continued U.S. market penetration, inbound international expansion, and ancillary services such as personal training and retail. Key risks are sensitivity to consumer spending, competitive pressure from boutique and low-cost rivals, concentration in the U.S. market, and potential membership churn during economic stress. With a market capitalisation around $8.1bn, Planet Fitness may suit investors seeking exposure to consumer discretionary leisure trends, but it’s important to weigh growth prospects against operational and macro risks—this is educational information, not personalised advice.

Churchill Downs (CHDN)

Churchill Downs Incorporated is a US-based entertainment company best known for its flagship event, the Kentucky Derby. While horse racing is at its core, the business is diversified across several areas. Its operations are split into three main segments: Live and Historical Racing, which includes its famous racetrack; Gaming, which covers its casino properties; and Wagering Services, which features the popular online betting platform, TwinSpires. The company also provides technology for pari-mutuel wagering to other racetracks and betting facilities. This mix of live events, physical casinos, and online services gives the company a broad footprint in the American gaming and entertainment landscape. For investors, it's worth noting that the company's performance can be influenced by consumer spending habits, regulatory changes in the gaming industry, and the continued popularity of its key events and platforms. As with any investment, returns are not guaranteed and values can go down as well as up.

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Active Lifestyle Portfolio

Tap into the powerful consumer shift toward personal health and fitness with this carefully selected group of companies. Our team of analysts has chosen brands that are leading the wellness economy as it becomes an essential part of modern life.

Published: June 18, 2025

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Body & Fitness

Invest in the companies powering the global wellness movement. This collection features carefully selected market leaders in athletic apparel, fitness equipment, gym chains, and wellness technology, chosen by our investment professionals for their growth potential.

Published: June 17, 2025

Explore Basket

Which Baskets Do They Appear In?

Active Lifestyle Portfolio

Tap into the powerful consumer shift toward personal health and fitness with this carefully selected group of companies. Our team of analysts has chosen brands that are leading the wellness economy as it becomes an essential part of modern life.

Published: June 18, 2025

Explore Basket

Body & Fitness

Invest in the companies powering the global wellness movement. This collection features carefully selected market leaders in athletic apparel, fitness equipment, gym chains, and wellness technology, chosen by our investment professionals for their growth potential.

Published: June 17, 2025

Explore Basket

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Comparison Snapshot