Does your Medicare plan include a fitness membership through Silver and Fit, Silver Sneakers, or Renew Active (UnitedHealthcare exclusive)?
Have you looked into what your membership has to offer?
Maybe you have not looked at it because you don't want to go to the gym or already have a gym in your community.
More Than Just a Gym Membership
Did you know the fitness memberships with your Medicare plan offer much more than just a gym membership? They create personalized fitness plans tailored to you and your needs.
There are online and in-person classes for all fitness levels. You can take classes while sitting in a chair; some classes focus on specifics like balance, strength, and mobility. In addition, they have fitness trackers and smartwatch programs to help you track your progress within a community of other members. Some plans will even send you fitness kits to use at home with stretchy bands, dumbbells, walking/trekking poles, yoga mats, etc., if you prefer working out at home and going to classes isn't your thing.
On the other hand, you may like the thought of a smaller, more niche type of classes like yoga, Pilates, or a combination of exercises offered by gyms like Orangetheory®. Certain fitness memberships also include these intensity and zone workouts at locations where you get a certain number of monthly classes.
They also offer resources, tools, and games for keeping your brain healthy and functioning at the highest possible level. Some of the plans will allow you to belong to multiple gyms at once or at a bare minimum, will let you change monthly.
There is truly something fitness-fueling for everyone. If you're unsure what fitness benefits your Medicare plan includes, check with your plan directly or speak with a qualified Medicare advisor who can help you understand your specific coverage options.
By American Retirement Advisors
American Retirement Advisors helps retirees and pre-retirees navigate Medicare, estate planning, and retirement income — so you can enjoy the retirement you've earned.
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Easy Eddie's Take
Most people are surprised when they learn just how comprehensive these Medicare fitness benefits really are. Let's take a look at this together: if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, there's a good chance you have access to one of these programs at no extra cost. SilverSneakers is available through many Humana and Cigna Medicare Advantage plans, while UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members get Renew Active, and Aetna often includes Silver&Fit.
Here's the good news about enrollment: you can typically sign up for your fitness benefit anytime during the year, not just during Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 through December 7). Many people ask me, "Can I use my Medicare fitness membership at multiple locations?" The answer is usually yes. SilverSneakers alone gives you access to over 15,000 participating gyms nationwide, including popular chains like Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and local YMCAs.
Think of it this way: if you're already paying your Medicare Advantage premium, you're essentially leaving money on the table by not using these benefits. A little preparation today to explore what's available in your area can make a big difference in your health and wellness tomorrow.