Medicare Advantage Plans With Gym Benefits for Seniors

Your Medicare Plan Could Be Paying for Your Gym Membership

What if we told you that staying active after 60 doesn’t have to cost you a dime out of pocket? It sounds too good to be true, but millions of seniors are already working out at local gyms and fitness centers — completely covered by their Medicare Advantage plans with gym membership benefits.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), more than 33 million Americans were enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans in 2024, and a growing number of those plans include fitness perks as a standard benefit. Yet many eligible seniors have no idea these benefits exist.

If you’re paying out of pocket for a gym membership — or worse, skipping exercise altogether because of cost — this article is for you. We’ll walk you through exactly how these fitness benefits work, which programs are available, and how to find the right plan for your needs.

What Are Medicare Advantage Fitness Benefits?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs. However, Medicare Advantage plans — also called Part C — are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare, and they often include extra benefits that go beyond what Original Medicare provides.

According to a 2023 report from the Better Medicare Alliance, approximately 74% of Medicare Advantage plans offered some type of fitness benefit. That number has been steadily climbing as insurers recognize that keeping seniors physically active reduces hospitalizations, chronic disease progression, and overall healthcare costs.

For a deeper look at all the benefits available to you, visit our Medicare Benefits Hub.

The Most Popular Gym Programs for Seniors on Medicare

1. SilverSneakers

SilverSneakers is the most well-known fitness program for seniors in the United States. It provides access to more than 17,000 gyms and fitness centers nationwide, including major chains like LA Fitness, Anytime Fitness, Curves, and many YMCAs.

• Unlimited access to participating gyms and fitness centers
• Group exercise classes designed specifically for older adults
• Access to pools, saunas, and other gym amenities
• SilverSneakers LIVE online classes
• A home fitness kit with resistance bands, a workout guide, and more

2. Silver&Fit

Silver&Fit is another popular option, offered through many Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans. It provides access to over 15,000 fitness centers and offers a home fitness program for those who prefer exercising at home.

3. Renew Active by UnitedHealthcare

Renew Active is UnitedHealthcare’s premium fitness and brain health program. Members get access to over 25,000 gyms and fitness locations — one of the largest networks available. The program includes group fitness classes, gym access, and online brain health exercises.

4. One Pass (Optum)

One Pass powered by Optum offers a flexible approach. Members can access fitness locations, digital workouts, and wellness coaching all through a single program.

Why Gym Benefits Matter So Much After 60

1. Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older, according to the CDC. Regular strength and balance exercises can reduce fall risk by up to 23%.
2. The American Heart Association reports that just 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
3. A 2022 study found that older adults who exercised regularly had a 33% lower risk of dementia.
4. Regular physical activity improves sleep quality, reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, and helps manage chronic pain.

How to Find a Medicare Advantage Plan With Gym Benefits

1. Check your current plan first. Log into your member portal or call the number on your insurance card and ask specifically about fitness or wellness benefits.
2. Use the Medicare Plan Finder. Visit Medicare.gov and use the plan comparison tool to filter by fitness programs.
3. Compare programs, not just plans. Decide whether you prefer SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, Renew Active, or another program.
4. Look at the full picture. Make sure the plan also meets your other healthcare needs — prescription drug coverage, specialist access, and out-of-pocket maximums all matter.
5. Mark your calendar for enrollment periods. You can switch Medicare Advantage plans during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7).

To make sure you don’t miss any important steps, download our free Medicare checklist.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Fitness Benefit

• Start small. Even 10–15 minutes of activity a few times a week makes a difference.
• Try group classes. They’re social, structured, and led by instructors who understand the needs of older adults.
• Buddy up. Invite a friend, neighbor, or spouse to join you.
• Mix it up. Alternate between strength training, balance exercises, flexibility work, and cardio.
• Talk to your doctor first. Before starting any new exercise program, have a quick conversation with your healthcare provider.