Does Planet Fitness offer a direct senior discount?
Planet Fitness does not offer an across-the-board senior discount for its standard memberships. While promotions have existed in the past, such as one in 2016 for National Senior Citizens Day, these were temporary and are not standard practice. The cost for a senior is the same as for any other adult, with the primary membership options being the Classic and the PF Black Card®.
How seniors can get a free Planet Fitness membership
The most common way for seniors to get a free membership is through a fitness benefit included in their health insurance plan, specifically via the SilverSneakers program. SilverSneakers is a wellness program designed for adults 65 and older that is covered by many Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans at no additional cost to the member.
Here’s how to determine your eligibility and get started:
- Check your health plan. You can contact your Medicare provider directly or review your plan details to see if SilverSneakers is a covered benefit.
- Verify eligibility online. Visit the SilverSneakers website and use their online tool to check if you are eligible for the program.
- Find a participating location. The SilverSneakers website also has a feature to find participating gyms in your area. Many, though not all, Planet Fitness locations are part of this network.
- Get your member ID. Once you confirm your eligibility, you can get and print your SilverSneakers ID card from their website.
- Visit Planet Fitness. Bring your SilverSneakers ID and show it at the front desk of a participating Planet Fitness to activate your membership and start working out.
Understanding the difference: Classic vs. PF Black Card®
If you are not eligible for a free membership through a program like SilverSneakers, you will need to choose from one of Planet Fitness's standard membership options. Here is a comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.
| Feature | Classic Membership | PF Black Card® Membership |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost (approximate) | ~$15 + annual fee | ~$25 + annual fee |
| Home Club Access | Unlimited access to your one designated home club | Unlimited access to any Planet Fitness worldwide |
| Bring a Guest | Not included | Bring one guest per visit for free |
| Premium Amenities | Not included | Unlimited use of massage chairs, HydroMassage™ beds, and tanning beds |
| Recovery Lounge | Not included | Access to the Wellness Pod and Recovery Lounge |
| Partner Rewards | Basic partner rewards | Premium partner rewards and exclusive discounts |
| Commitment | Can be no-commitment or 12-month commitment, depending on club | Can be no-commitment or 12-month commitment, depending on club |
Alternatives for seniors seeking free or discounted fitness
Besides SilverSneakers, there are other avenues for seniors to access affordable fitness options. These programs and locations can be especially helpful if your health insurance does not cover SilverSneakers or if you prefer a different kind of facility.
- YMCA: Many YMCA locations offer discounted memberships for seniors and may have a wider range of activities, including swimming pools and group fitness classes.
- Local Senior Centers: Community and senior centers often provide discounted or free fitness classes specifically for older adults. These can be a great way to stay active and socialize with peers.
- Renew Active: This program is offered exclusively through UnitedHealthcare Medicare Plans and provides access to a large network of gyms, including some premium facilities.
- Silver&Fit: Similar to SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit partners with select Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans to offer free gym memberships and other wellness benefits.
- Community and Recreation Centers: Local municipal facilities can be a low-cost alternative, offering equipment and sometimes special programs for seniors.
Conclusion: Finding the right fit
While Planet Fitness is not inherently free for seniors, the path to a no-cost membership is clear for many through health insurance benefits. The SilverSneakers program, included with a wide variety of Medicare Advantage plans, provides free access to Planet Fitness and other gyms for eligible adults aged 65 and older. Seniors who don't qualify for SilverSneakers can still benefit from Planet Fitness's affordable standard memberships, or explore other low-cost alternatives like the YMCA or local community centers. Checking your health plan is the first and most crucial step to determining if you can work out at Planet Fitness for free.
SilverSneakers Official Website
How to get started at Planet Fitness as a senior
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility for SilverSneakers or chosen a paid membership, getting started is a simple process. First-time guests may even be eligible for a free one-day pass to try out the facility. The “Judgement Free Zone” atmosphere is designed to be welcoming to people of all fitness levels, making it a comfortable environment for older adults.
Planet Fitness also offers a wide range of equipment and has articles and video tutorials for safe, effective workouts tailored to seniors. You can consult the certified fitness trainers on staff for guidance, especially if you are new to the gym or have specific fitness goals.
Remember to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Regular, moderate exercise is key to a healthy lifestyle, and with options like SilverSneakers, a high-quality fitness routine is accessible and affordable for many seniors.
