What is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program designed for adults aged 65 and older and is included with many Medicare Advantage plans and select Medicare Supplement plans. It provides access to thousands of gyms, community centers, and online fitness resources at no additional cost to eligible members. The program focuses on improving overall wellness through regular physical activity, offering a variety of classes and access to a wide range of equipment.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Before searching for a gym, the first step is to confirm your eligibility through your health insurance plan. You can do this by:
- Checking online: Visit the official SilverSneakers website and use their eligibility checker tool by entering your personal information.
- Reviewing your plan documents: Look through your health insurance plan's benefits documentation to see if SilverSneakers is listed as a benefit.
- Calling your provider: You can contact your specific Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan provider to verify coverage.
Major National Gym Chains That Participate
The SilverSneakers network includes some of the country's most well-known fitness chains. Participation can vary by location, so it's always best to verify using the official locator tool or by calling the specific gym.
Here are some of the popular national chains often included in the SilverSneakers network:
- Planet Fitness: Known for its low-cost, "Judgment Free Zone" atmosphere, many Planet Fitness locations accept SilverSneakers members, providing access to cardio and strength equipment.
- YMCA: As a large community-focused organization, the YMCA is a key partner for SilverSneakers, offering pools, gyms, and a wide array of specialized classes for older adults.
- LA Fitness: Many LA Fitness centers are part of the network, giving members access to pools, saunas, and a variety of fitness equipment.
- 24 Hour Fitness: This chain offers around-the-clock access at numerous locations, allowing for flexible workout schedules for SilverSneakers participants.
- Curves: A franchise focused on women's fitness, Curves is a partner that offers specialized circuit training workouts.
- Crunch Fitness: Select Crunch locations are also part of the program, offering a variety of amenities and classes.
- Anytime Fitness: A partner at numerous locations, offering 24/7 access to members with a key fob.
- VASA Fitness: Multiple locations of VASA Fitness are part of the network, providing access to equipment and group classes.
- EōS Fitness: This gym chain has locations that participate in the program, offering a variety of equipment and amenities.
How to Find a Participating Location Near You
The most reliable way to find participating gyms is to use the official SilverSneakers online locator tool or mobile app.
- Visit the website: Navigate to the SilverSneakers location finder page.
- Enter your location: Type your address or zip code into the search bar to see a map of all nearby fitness locations.
- Browse options: The map will display SilverSneakers partner locations. You can click on each location to see details about the facility, including address, phone number, and specific amenities offered.
- Confirm amenities: The details page for each location will list its features, such as pools, specialized equipment, and specific SilverSneakers classes.
Beyond the Gym: Other SilverSneakers Options
The program isn't limited to traditional gyms. Members can also take advantage of:
- Community Centers: Many local rec centers and community centers offer SilverSneakers programs and classes.
- SilverSneakers LIVE: For those who prefer to work out from home, the program offers a wide array of instructor-led online classes.
- On-Demand Videos: The website and mobile app provide access to a library of prerecorded workout videos that can be done anytime, anywhere.
- SilverSneakers FLEX: This includes alternative fitness activities like Tai Chi, yoga, walking groups, and dance classes offered at non-gym locations like parks or community centers.
Comparing Popular SilverSneakers Options
| Feature | Planet Fitness (Select Locations) | YMCA (Select Locations) | SilverSneakers LIVE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Membership Cost | Free with eligible SilverSneakers plan | Free with eligible SilverSneakers plan | Free with eligible SilverSneakers plan |
| Access | Access to all basic cardio and strength equipment. | Access to full gym amenities, including pools, indoor tracks, and courts. | Access to virtual instructor-led classes and on-demand video library. |
| Specialty Classes | Limited senior-focused classes may be available at some locations. | Wide range of specialized senior-focused classes like aquatic fitness and yoga. | Classes designed for all fitness levels and abilities, led by trained instructors. |
| Amenities | Standard cardio and strength equipment; often includes a "Hydromassage" or tanning area for a fee. | Varied, but often includes pools, basketball courts, and larger group fitness spaces. | Requires only a digital device and space for exercise. |
| Convenience | Best for those with a participating location nearby. | Best for those who prefer diverse amenities and community programming. | Best for those who prefer to work out from home. |
Conclusion
For eligible adults on a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan, the SilverSneakers program provides an excellent opportunity to engage in physical activity and improve overall health without the burden of membership fees. The vast network of participating gyms, from national chains like the YMCA and Planet Fitness to local community centers, means there's likely a convenient option for almost everyone. Whether you prefer the structure of an in-person class, the flexibility of a gym floor, or the convenience of at-home workouts, SilverSneakers offers multiple pathways to support a healthy and active lifestyle. The official online locator tool is your best resource for finding the nearest participating facilities and beginning your fitness journey. For more details on finding a location or checking eligibility, visit the official SilverSneakers website: SilverSneakers Location Search.
Note: While many popular chains are partners, always use the official SilverSneakers tools to confirm that a specific location participates, as this can change based on the local agreements and health plan you have.
