7. Gym Memberships & Fitness Programs (Medicare Advantage Plans)
The Problem: Original Medicare doesn’t cover gym memberships. But most Medicare Advantage plans include completely free fitness benefits worth $100–$200+ monthly. Yet a 2025 Commonwealth Fund study found that 75% of beneficiaries don’t even know these perks exist, let alone use them.
What’s Available (Plan-Dependent, Usually Free):
Silver Sneakers Fitness Program
- Access to 15,000+ gyms nationwide (national chains + local studios)
- Unlimited classes: yoga, aerobics, water aerobics, strength training
- Live and on-demand virtual workout classes (at-home option)
- Some plans offer specialized classes: arthritis, balance, fall prevention
- Typical value: $50–$100/month membership fees = free
Blue365 Wellness Program
- Discounted fitness classes (in-person and virtual)
- Gym membership discounts
- Meal plan discounts
- Athletic gear and supplement discounts
- Available through Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans
Humana Medicare Advantage Plans
- $0 copay visits to primary care providers
- $0 copay preventive care, vaccines, screenings
- Dental, vision, hearing coverage (not in Original Medicare)
- Fitness program access
AARP/UnitedHealthcare Wellness Extras
- No-cost gym membership
- Virtual fitness classes
- Dental and vision discounts
- Driving refresher course + auto insurance discount
- 24/7 nurse hotline access
Real Value: A gym membership costs $30–$150/month. Fitness program access prevents falls (preventing a $35,000 hospitalization), improves mobility, reduces medication needs. One study found seniors using fitness programs reduced hospitalizations by 18%.
Action: If you have Medicare Advantage, call your plan today and ask specifically: “What fitness and wellness benefits come with my plan?” Many beneficiaries miss out simply because they never ask.
