SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that provides gym access and fitness classes for older adults. Original Medicare doesn’t cover SilverSneakers, but some Medicare Part C and Medigap plans do.

For older adults, staying physically active can help maintain mobility and physical function, lift mood, and make performing day-to-day activities easier.

For that purpose, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer SilverSneakers, a fitness program for adults 65 and older.

A 2019 study of SilverSneakers participants found that individuals with more gym visits had higher self-reported physical and mental health scores.

Keep reading to learn more about SilverSneakers, which Medicare plans cover, and more.

SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program that’s specifically aimed at adults aged 65 and older.

It includes the following benefits:

  • use of participating gym facilities, including fitness equipment, pools, and walking tracks
  • fitness classes specifically designed for older adults of all fitness levels, including cardio workouts, strength training, and yoga
  • access to online resources, including workout videos as well as nutrition and fitness tips
  • promotion of a supportive community of fellow participants both in person and online

SilverSneakers has thousands of participating gyms nationwide. A 2019 review of the SilverSneakers program found that those participating in SilverSneakers for at least 2 years had:

  • lower healthcare costs
  • fewer inpatient hospital admissions
  • higher savings (for those who averaged 2 or more health club visits per week)

Fitness programs can help improve overall health and may also lower healthcare costs. The SilverSneakers website offers a free search tool to help you find a location near you.

FLEX Community Program

Along with gym access, SilverSneakers also offers FLEX classes. If your Medicare plan offers SilverSneakers, you will have access to the FLEX community program, which includes fitness classes led by instructors and held in local parks and community and recreation centers.

There are more than 80 classes to choose from, including:

  • dance, such as line dancing or Zumba
  • fitness boot camp
  • tai chi
  • barre
  • yoga
  • strength and balance
  • walking outdoors
  • stability
  • chair aerobics

That said, available classes may vary by location.

The FLEX community program also allows you to access digital FLEX classes. These include online resources like videos with:

  • exercises you can do at home to improve cardio endurance or build muscle
  • tips to eat healthier
  • strategies to help you prevent falls

If you have questions about SilverSneakers or the FLEX community program, call SilverSneakers Customer Service at 1-888-423-4632, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can also visit silversneakers.com

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover gym memberships or fitness programs. Since SilverSneakers falls under this category, original Medicare doesn’t cover it.

However, some Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans cover SilverSneakers. Additionally, some Medigap (Medicare supplement) plans offer it as well.

If your plan covers the SilverSneakers program, you can sign up for it on the SilverSneakers website. After signing up, you’ll receive a SilverSneakers membership card with a member ID number.

SilverSneakers members have access to any gym that participates in the program. You can use your membership card to enroll at your gym of choice. You’ll then have access to all SilverSneakers benefits free of charge.

Tips for choosing the best Medicare plan for your needs

So how can you choose a Medicare plan that fits your needs? Follow the tips below to get started:

  • Think about your health needs: Since everyone has different health needs, it’s important to consider what kind of health or medical services you’ll need in the coming year.
  • Look at the coverage options: Compare the coverage provided in the different Medicare plans with your health needs. Focus on plans that’ll meet these needs in the upcoming year.
  • Consider cost: Costs can vary by the Medicare plan you select. When looking at plans, think about things like premiums, deductibles, and how much you’d be able to pay out of pocket.
  • Compare Part C and Part D plans: If you’re looking at a Part C or Part D plan, remember that what’s covered varies by each individual plan. Use the official Medicare site to carefully compare different plans before deciding on one.
  • Check the participating doctors Some plans require that you use a healthcare provider in their network. Be sure to double-check to see if your healthcare provider is included in a plan’s network before enrolling.

You’re eligible for SilverSneakers if you’re eligible for Medicare, which means you’re 65 years old or older or you’re younger and living with certain chronic conditions or disabilities. That said, since Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t cover SilverSneakers, you’ll need to be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that does.

Part C plans are run by private insurance companies and must provide the same benefits as Original Medicare. However, some plans also include extra benefits like SilverSneakers.

On the other hand, if you are enrolled in Original Medicare along with a Medigap plan, you may also be able to access SilverSneakers through your Medigap plan.

SilverSneakers members only have to pay for anything not covered in the SilverSneakers program. That said, you must meet your annual Part C deductible and pay a monthly premium. These costs vary by plan.

According to the Centers for Medicaid & Medicare (CMS), the average monthly premium for Part C plans is around $17.00 in 2025. Similarly, Medigap costs vary depending on the plan and where you live.

If you’re unsure about what’s included at a specific gym, ask. Additionally, it’s important to note that the specific amenities and classes available can vary by gym. You may have to search for a participating gym that meets your specific fitness needs.

Why did AARP drop SilverSneakers?

AARP replaced SilverSneakers with an alternative program called Renew Active as of 2023.

What insurance plans include SilverSneakers?

Health insurers offering Part C plans that offer SilverSneakers include Aetna, Humana, Wellcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and more.

SilverSneakers is a fitness program specifically geared toward older adults. It includes:

  • access to gym facilities
  • specialized fitness classes
  • online resources
  • FLEX fitness and health classes you can attend in person or online

SilverSneakers benefits are provided to members free of charge. If you want to use gym or fitness services not included in SilverSneakers, you’ll have to pay for them.

Original Medicare doesn’t cover gym memberships or fitness programs like SilverSneakers. However, some Medicare Part C and Medigap plans do. If your Medicare plan offers SilverSneakers, you’ll also have access to the FLEX community program.

If you’re interested in SilverSneakers, check if it’s included in your plan or any plan you’re considering.