SilverSneakers is one of the most valuable — and most underused — benefits available to Medicare members. Millions of seniors qualify for free gym memberships, online fitness classes, and wellness resources through their Medicare plan and simply don't know it. This guide explains exactly what SilverSneakers is, who qualifies, how to enroll, and what alternatives exist if your plan doesn't include it.
✦ Key takeaways
- SilverSneakers is a free fitness benefit included with many Medicare Advantage plans
- Over 18 million seniors are eligible — most don't realize they qualify
- 95% of Medicare Advantage plans include some kind of fitness benefit (2025 data)
- SilverSneakers provides access to 14,000+ gym locations plus online classes
- AARP/UnitedHealthcare plans now use Renew Active — not SilverSneakers
- Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does NOT include SilverSneakers
In this guide
What Is SilverSneakers?
SilverSneakers is a health and fitness program specifically designed for adults 65 and older, operated by Tivity Health. Unlike most fitness programs, SilverSneakers is offered at no additional cost to members who have qualifying Medicare health insurance plans — your insurance pays for it.
Founded in 1992, SilverSneakers has grown into the largest senior fitness program in the United States. The program gives members access to a nationwide network of gyms and fitness centers, live and on-demand online fitness classes, and a suite of wellness resources — all included as part of their Medicare coverage.
What Does SilverSneakers Include?
Important 2023 update: AARP-endorsed Medicare plans from UnitedHealthcare no longer include SilverSneakers. As of 2023, these plans switched to their own program called Renew Active. If you have an AARP Medicare plan, see the alternatives section below.
Who Qualifies for SilverSneakers?
To be eligible for SilverSneakers, you must:
- Be 65 years or older (or eligible for Medicare due to disability)
- Be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan or certain Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans that include SilverSneakers as a benefit
- Your specific plan must be a participating SilverSneakers plan
Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does NOT include SilverSneakers. You must have a Medicare Advantage plan or qualifying Medigap policy. The fitness benefit is optional and not required by law — it's offered at the insurance company's discretion.
How to Check Your Eligibility and Enroll
Look for "fitness benefit," "SilverSneakers," or "wellness benefit" in your Summary of Benefits or Evidence of Coverage document. These were mailed when you enrolled.
Enter your Medicare ID number or personal information at the SilverSneakers website to check eligibility directly. This is the fastest way to confirm coverage.
Call the Member Services number on your insurance card and ask: "Does my plan include SilverSneakers or a fitness benefit?" If not SilverSneakers, ask what fitness program is included.
Once confirmed eligible, register at SilverSneakers.com. You'll receive a membership ID number. Use this at any participating gym — just show it at the front desk.
Use the SilverSneakers location finder or GO app to find participating gyms near you and browse available classes — both in-person and online.
SilverSneakers Alternatives in 2026
SilverSneakers is not the only Medicare fitness program. Several alternatives exist, each offered through different insurance providers:
SilverSneakers
Offered through Humana, Anthem, Aetna, HealthPartners, and many regional plans
Renew Active
UnitedHealthcare's proprietary program, available through AARP Medicare plans and other UHC plans
Silver&Fit
Available through various Medicare plans. Includes gym access plus home fitness kit for members who prefer home exercise
Medicare Fitness Program Comparison
| Feature | SilverSneakers | Renew Active (UHC) | Silver&Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gym network | 14,000+ locations | Large network (varies) | 12,000+ locations |
| Online classes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Home fitness kit | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Brain health program | Limited | ✓ AARP Staying Sharp | Limited |
| Community classes | ✓ FLEX program | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
| Mobile app | ✓ GO App | ✓ Yes | Limited |
| Available through | Most major insurers (not UHC) | UnitedHealthcare only | Various insurers |
| Cost to member | Free with qualifying plan | Free with UHC plan | Free with qualifying plan |
Which Medicare Plans Include SilverSneakers in 2026?
SilverSneakers is available through dozens of Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. Major insurers that currently offer SilverSneakers (as of 2026) include:
- Humana — Most Medicare Advantage plans
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield — Most MA plans
- Aetna — Select MA plans
- HealthPartners — Most MA plans
- Cigna — Select MA plans
- Many regional and state-based plans — Check your plan documents
Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 – December 7 each year. If your current plan doesn't include a fitness benefit, this is your opportunity to switch to one that does. Compare plans at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. A licensed agent can help you find plans in your area that include SilverSneakers.