Medicare and Gym Memberships: 2025 Benefits, Programs & How to Qualify
- Donald A
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Staying active is one of the best ways older adults can maintain independence, boost energy, and improve overall health. For those on Medicare, many plans include access to fitness programs, often at no additional cost. If you're wondering whether Medicare covers gym memberships in 2025, the short answer is yes, through Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans that offer wellness benefits like SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Silver&Fit.
Here’s what you need to know about these programs, what they offer, and how to find out if you're eligible.
SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is one of the most popular senior fitness programs in the U.S., designed exclusively for adults 65 and older. It offers:
Free gym access to thousands of participating locations nationwide
Online workout classes (live and on-demand)
Fitness community events and walking groups
Low-impact fitness options including yoga, strength training, and water aerobics
Who’s eligible?SilverSneakers is available through many Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans and a few Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not include fitness benefits on its own.
To find out if your plan includes SilverSneakers, visit silversneakers.com and use their eligibility tool.
Renew Active
Offered exclusively through UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, Renew Active is a newer fitness benefit that provides a wide range of wellness services:
Free gym membership to participating locations, including large chains like LA Fitness and Anytime Fitness
Brain health programs through tools like BrainHQ
Social and community events to support emotional wellness
Custom workout plans and goal tracking via a personalized online portal
How to access it:If you’re a UHC Medicare member, you can activate Renew Active by logging into your member portal or calling the number on your plan ID card.
Silver&Fit
Silver&Fit, available through several Medicare Advantage plans, focuses on both physical and mental well-being. Benefits include:
Membership at more than 18,000 gyms and fitness centers
Home fitness kits for those who prefer to work out at home
Access to online workout videos, health coaching, and fitness challenges
Tools to help you stay motivated and track progress
Where to check: Head to silverandfit.com to search participating plans and gym locations near you.
How to Get Started with a Medicare Gym Membership
Check your plan: Look at your current Medicare Advantage plan documents or give us a call and we can do a quick check for you.
Compare options: If you’re considering changing plans during the next enrollment period, we can compare the different policies and which membership they give you.
Enroll and activate: Once you’re eligible, sign up for your fitness program online. We can help with the activation process of your gym membership
2025 Trends in Medicare Fitness Benefits
As of 2025, more Medicare Advantage plans are bundling wellness perks to encourage healthy aging. Beyond traditional gyms, many plans now offer:
Streaming workouts and fitness apps
Mindfulness and mental wellness tools
Fall prevention programs
Expanded virtual fitness for rural members
Whether you’re hitting the gym or exercising at home, Medicare Advantage plans continue to support a more holistic approach to senior health.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on Medicare and want to stay fit in 2025, you likely have access to a variety of free or low-cost fitness programs through your plan. With options like SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Silver&Fit, there’s something for every fitness level and lifestyle.
Staying healthy doesn’t have to mean spending more, it can start with the benefits you already have!
Need help reviewing your Medicare options?Contact us today to explore your plan’s fitness benefits and find the right fit for your health goals.