What SilverSneakers Is and How It Works
SilverSneakers is a fitness program included with many Medicare Advantage plans and some Medigap policies. It gives you access to gym memberships, fitness classes, and online workout programs at no extra cost beyond your plan premium. The program is run by Tivity Health, a company that contracts with Medicare insurers to offer the benefit.
If your plan includes SilverSneakers, you receive a membership card that works at participating gyms and fitness centers nationwide. You can attend group fitness classes like water aerobics, yoga, strength training, and balance classes designed for older adults. Most locations also offer access to gym equipment during regular hours, and you can use the SilverSneakers GO app to find classes and gyms near you.
The program also includes SilverSneakers Online, which provides live and on-demand fitness classes you can do at home through a computer or mobile device. This part of the benefit requires no gym visit and no special equipment.
Key Takeaways
- SilverSneakers is included with many Medicare Advantage plans but not all Original Medicare (Part A and B) coverage, so you need to check your specific plan documents.
- The program covers gym access, group fitness classes, and online workouts with no copay or additional fee if your plan includes it.
- You can find participating locations and class schedules using the SilverSneakers website or mobile app before you join.
- If your current plan does not include SilverSneakers, you may be able to switch to a plan that does during the annual Medicare open enrollment period.
Which Medicare Plans Cover SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is most commonly offered through Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C plans). However, not every Medicare Advantage plan includes it. Some plans offer it as a standard benefit, while others charge an extra monthly fee, and some do not offer it at all.
A smaller number of Medigap supplemental insurance plans also include SilverSneakers, though this varies by insurance company and state. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B alone) does not include SilverSneakers as a covered benefit.
To find out whether your plan includes SilverSneakers, check your plan's Summary of Benefits document, which your insurance company sends each year. You can also call the customer service number on your insurance card and ask directly whether SilverSneakers is included and whether there is an extra cost.
How to Sign Up and Find Gyms Near You
If your plan includes SilverSneakers, you do not need to sign up separately or pay an enrollment fee. Your membership is automatic once your plan becomes active. Your insurance company will mail you a SilverSneakers membership card, or you can request one by calling the SilverSneakers customer service line at 1-888-423-4632.
Once you have your card, you can find participating gyms and fitness centers using the SilverSneakers website or the SilverSneakers GO mobile app. Search by your zip code to see which locations are near you, what classes they offer, and their hours. Most participating gyms include large national chains as well as local YMCAs and community fitness centers.
You can also call SilverSneakers customer service to ask about specific gyms in your area or to get help choosing a location that fits your schedule and fitness goals.
What Types of Classes and Activities Are Available
SilverSneakers classes are designed specifically for older adults and focus on balance, flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. Common class types include water aerobics (which is easier on joints), yoga, tai chi, strength training with light weights or resistance bands, and balance and fall-prevention classes. Most gyms offer multiple class times throughout the week so you can find one that fits your schedule.
Beyond group classes, you typically have access to gym equipment during regular facility hours, including treadmills, stationary bikes, weight machines, and free weights. Many locations also offer one-on-one fitness consultations or orientation sessions to help you get your free guide safely.
SilverSneakers Online lets you join live-streamed classes or watch recorded workouts on your computer or phone. These include yoga, strength training, dance, and stretching classes. You can do them in your home at any time that works for you, and no special equipment is needed for most classes.
Cost and What to Expect When You Visit
If your plan includes SilverSneakers at no extra charge, there is no copay, deductible, or membership fee when you visit a participating gym. You straightforward show your SilverSneakers membership card. Some gyms may ask you to sign a waiver or complete a brief health screening on your first visit, which is standard practice.
If your plan charges an extra monthly premium for SilverSneakers, that cost will be listed in your plan documents and added to your monthly bill. Some plans offer SilverSneakers as an optional add-on you can choose during enrollment.
Keep in mind that SilverSneakers covers only the gym membership and classes. If you want to work with a personal trainer beyond what the gym offers as part of the membership, that service may cost extra and would not be covered by SilverSneakers.
Switching Plans to Get SilverSneakers
If your current Medicare plan does not include SilverSneakers and you want it, you can switch to a different plan during the annual Medicare open enrollment period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. Changes take effect on January 1 of the following year.
When you are shopping for a new plan, use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on Medicare.gov to compare plans in your area. You can filter by benefits to see which plans include SilverSneakers. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE to speak with someone who can help you compare plans and explain the differences in cost and coverage.
If you have a life-changing event — such as moving to a new state, losing other health coverage, or becoming newly may be able to access for Medicare — you may be able to make a change outside the open enrollment period. Contact Medicare to ask whether you may have access to for a Special Enrollment Period.
Questions to Ask Your Insurance Company
Before you start using SilverSneakers, it is helpful to confirm a few details with your plan:
- Is SilverSneakers included in my plan at no extra cost, or is there a monthly fee?
- Which gyms and fitness centers near my home or workplace participate in the program?
- What classes and times are available at my preferred location?
- Do I need to register with the gym before my first visit, or can I just show my card?
- Are there any limits on how many classes I can attend per week or month?
Frequently Asked Questions
What if there are no SilverSneakers gyms near me?
SilverSneakers has a large network, but coverage varies by location. If no gyms near you participate, you can still use SilverSneakers Online from home. You can also ask your insurance company whether they offer other fitness or wellness programs as an alternative.
Can I use SilverSneakers if I have a health condition or physical limitation?
Yes. SilverSneakers classes are designed for people at different fitness levels, and instructors can often suggest modifications for specific conditions. Tell the instructor about any injuries or limitations when you arrive, and they can help you adjust movements. If you have concerns about whether exercise is safe for you, talk with your doctor before starting.
Do I lose SilverSneakers if I switch Medicare plans?
It depends on your new plan. If you switch to another plan that includes SilverSneakers, your membership continues with no gap. If you switch to a plan that does not include it, your membership ends. You can check whether a new plan includes SilverSneakers before you enroll.
Is there a cost if I want to bring a guest to a class?
SilverSneakers membership is for you only. Guests may be able to attend classes with you, but policies vary by gym. Some gyms charge a guest fee, while others allow one free guest visit. Call your gym directly to ask about their guest policy.
What happens to my SilverSneakers membership if I move to a different state?
Your membership stays active as long as your Medicare plan is active. You can use the SilverSneakers website or app to find participating gyms in your new location. If your new state has different Medicare plans available, you may want to review your coverage during the next open enrollment period.