Recently, I accompanied television personality and author Herbie J. Pilato to the gym. Herbie works out regularly first by walking daily at least two miles and has recently joined Planet Fitness in Cerritos through the SilverSneakers program, a fitness benefit available to many Medicare recipients.
Like many people, I had heard the name “SilverSneakers” before but never really looked into what it offered. What I discovered is that it may be one of the most valuable health benefits available to older adults.
SilverSneakers is a fitness and wellness program offered through many Medicare Advantage and some Medicare Supplement plans. Members receive access to thousands of participating gyms and fitness centers across the country at no additional cost beyond their health plan coverage.
For many participants, that means access to facilities such as Planet Fitness, local community centers, YMCAs, and specialty fitness clubs. Availability varies by location and insurance plan, so it’s important to verify participation before signing up.
What impressed me most was that SilverSneakers is not simply a gym membership. The program also provides:
• Instructor-led fitness classes designed specifically for older adults
• Strength training and balance classes
• Flexibility and mobility programs
• Walking groups and community activities
• Thousands of live and on-demand online workouts
• Access to the SilverSneakers GO fitness app for tracking progress and finding classes
Research has consistently shown that maintaining muscle strength becomes increasingly important as we age. Strength training helps preserve mobility, improve balance, reduce fall risk, support bone health, and maintain independence. Yet many older adults avoid fitness programs because they assume they are too expensive or designed for younger people.
SilverSneakers addresses both concerns.
One important thing to know is that Original Medicare alone does not cover gym memberships. However, many Medicare Advantage plans include SilverSneakers as part of their benefits package. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, it’s worth checking to see whether your coverage includes the program.
Getting started is simple. Eligible members can check their eligibility online, obtain a member ID, and then visit participating fitness locations.
Watching Herbie work out reminded me of something important: staying active isn’t about trying to be 25 again. It’s about maintaining the strength, stamina, and independence to enjoy life today. At any age, movement is medicine.
And if Medicare is already helping pay for it, why not take advantage of one of the benefits you’ve earned?
SilverSneakers Quick Facts
✓ Available through many Medicare Advantage plans
✓ Access to thousands of participating fitness locations nationwide
✓ Online live classes and on-demand workouts
✓ Fitness programs designed specifically for older adults
✓ Includes strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility training
✓ Free for eligible members through participating plans
To see if you’re eligible: Visit SilverSneakers Eligibility Checker
To find participating locations: Visit SilverSneakers Location Finder
