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What gyms participate in Silver Sneakers for seniors?

4 min read

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, millions of Americans have access to fitness benefits through their Medicare Advantage plans, with SilverSneakers being one of the most widely recognized programs. If you're a senior and wondering what gyms participate in Silver Sneakers for seniors, the good news is that the network includes thousands of locations nationwide, such as major chains like LA Fitness, Planet Fitness, and many YMCAs.

Quick Summary

The SilverSneakers program offers eligible seniors access to a vast network of fitness centers, including major national chains and local facilities, as a benefit included with select Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Eligibility depends on your specific insurance plan, and members can use the official SilverSneakers website or mobile app to find participating locations and classes.

Key Points

  • Extensive Gym Network: SilverSneakers partners with over 15,000 locations nationwide, including major national chains and local community centers.

  • Major Participating Chains: The network includes popular gym franchises such as LA Fitness, Planet Fitness, Gold's Gym, 24 Hour Fitness, and Curves.

  • Includes More Than Just Gyms: The program also covers YMCAs, local recreation centers, and specialized FLEX classes held in parks and senior centers.

  • Check Eligibility First: Access to SilverSneakers depends on your specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, so it's essential to verify your eligibility on the official SilverSneakers website.

  • Find Locations Online: You can find all participating gyms and class locations near you using the search tool on the SilverSneakers website or the SilverSneakers GO mobile app.

  • Variety of Amenities and Classes: Members get access to fitness equipment, pools, walking tracks, and instructor-led classes like yoga, tai chi, and water aerobics.

  • Online Fitness Options: In addition to in-person facilities, members have access to SilverSneakers LIVE virtual classes and an On-Demand video library.

In This Article

The SilverSneakers program provides a significant benefit for older adults, offering access to thousands of fitness centers and specialized classes at no extra cost through eligible Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. A wide array of fitness centers participate, from large national franchises to local community centers and YMCAs. This widespread network ensures that most eligible seniors can find a convenient location to stay active.

Major national gym chains participating in SilverSneakers

Many of the biggest names in the fitness industry are part of the SilverSneakers network, providing members with a high degree of accessibility and a variety of equipment. These national partnerships mean you can often find a participating location whether you are at home or traveling.

  • LA Fitness: A prominent partner, with many locations offering extensive cardio and strength equipment, as well as amenities like pools and saunas.
  • Planet Fitness: Known for its "Judgement Free Zone," Planet Fitness is a popular option in the network, with thousands of locations nationwide.
  • YMCA: Numerous local YMCAs are included, offering not only gym facilities but also community-focused wellness programs, pools, and group classes.
  • Curves: This women-only fitness center often participates, providing a supportive environment and specialized circuit training workouts.
  • 24 Hour Fitness: Many of its clubs are part of the network, with a broad range of equipment and, in some cases, swimming pools and group fitness classes.
  • Gold's Gym: A well-known national brand, with a selection of locations participating in the program.

How to find participating gyms near you

To find the specific locations that participate in your area, SilverSneakers offers a robust online search tool and a mobile app. It's recommended to check your eligibility and find locations before visiting a gym.

  1. Check eligibility: Visit the official SilverSneakers website and use the "Check Your Eligibility" tool by entering your health insurance information. This is the most crucial step, as program benefits are tied to specific Medicare plans.
  2. Use the location search: Once you've confirmed your eligibility, use the "Find Locations" tool on the website or the SilverSneakers GO mobile app. You can enter your zip code to see all nearby participating fitness centers and FLEX classes.
  3. Confirm amenities: Not all gyms offer the same amenities. After finding a potential location, call the specific facility to confirm its hours and what is included with the basic SilverSneakers membership. Certain services like personal training, tanning, or massage therapy are typically not covered.

Other types of fitness locations in the network

Beyond traditional gym chains, the SilverSneakers network includes a variety of other venues to accommodate different preferences and fitness levels. The FLEX program, in particular, offers a diverse selection of non-traditional class settings.

  • Recreation Centers: Many local and community recreation centers participate, often featuring pools, indoor tracks, and community-based fitness classes.
  • Dance and Yoga Studios: For those who prefer specific types of exercise, certain dance and yoga studios are also part of the network, offering specialized instruction.
  • Parks and Senior Centers: The FLEX program provides classes like tai chi, walking groups, and strength and balance training in local parks and senior community centers, bringing fitness options closer to home.
  • Aquatic Centers: Many participating locations feature aquatic facilities, providing options for water aerobics and swimming, which are low-impact and beneficial for joint health.

Comparison of gym chains for SilverSneakers members

Feature Planet Fitness LA Fitness YMCA Local Community Center SilverSneakers FLEX Class
Membership Cost $0 (with eligible plan) $0 (with eligible plan) Varies (often included) Varies (often included) $0 (with eligible plan)
Equipment Full range of cardio and strength machines Extensive cardio and strength machines, free weights Wide range of equipment Standard range of equipment No dedicated equipment
Amenities Not included Pools, saunas, whirlpools, basketball courts (at some locations) Pools, tracks, basketball courts (availability varies) Pools, tracks, limited facilities N/A
Classes Studio classes available Group fitness classes offered Wide variety of fitness classes Community-led classes and programs Specialized classes like yoga, tai chi, and walking groups
Focus General fitness General fitness, weight training Community and family-oriented Community events and wellness Specialized senior fitness
Social Aspect Less emphasis Moderate Strong community focus Strong community focus Strong social element

Conclusion

The SilverSneakers program offers a comprehensive and free fitness benefit for eligible seniors by partnering with a diverse and extensive network of facilities. Major national gyms like LA Fitness, Planet Fitness, and the YMCA are key partners, providing convenient access to exercise equipment and group classes. The program extends beyond traditional gyms to include community centers and specialized FLEX classes, ensuring that seniors with varying fitness needs and preferences can find suitable options. By utilizing the official website's eligibility checker and location search tool, seniors can easily identify the participating gyms and classes available through their Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan to begin their fitness journey. For more information on health and wellness as you age, you can visit the CDC's Guide to Physical Activity for older adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

The SilverSneakers network includes thousands of facilities, such as national chains like LA Fitness, Planet Fitness, and Gold's Gym, along with many local YMCAs, community centers, and specialized FLEX class locations.

To check if your plan includes SilverSneakers, you can visit the official SilverSneakers website and use the 'Check Your Eligibility' tool. You can also contact your specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan provider directly.

No, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers. This benefit is available as an extra perk through some Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans.

Yes, your SilverSneakers membership grants you unlimited access to any and all participating locations within the network. You can use multiple locations depending on your needs, such as using different gyms when traveling.

The SilverSneakers FLEX program offers instructor-led fitness classes, such as tai chi, yoga, and walking groups, at community-based locations like parks, recreation centers, and senior centers.

While amenities vary by location, a basic SilverSneakers membership generally includes access to cardio and strength equipment, pools, and walking tracks. It's best to confirm specific amenities with the gym directly.

Yes, as of 2023, AARP replaced SilverSneakers with its own alternative fitness program called Renew Active. If you have an AARP Medicare Advantage plan, you should check your benefits for the Renew Active program instead.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding personal health decisions.