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Pickleball and Gym Memberships

Updated: Oct 2, 2025


Why SilverSneakers Still Matters — And Why It’s Cooler Than You Think

When I worked at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, I was on a project that helped evaluate programs for our Senior Affinity Program, including SilverSneakers. Almost 30 years later, the program is stronger than ever.

And while I'm only 55 and work out at a luxury gym in Chicago where I spend more time in the sauna and cold pool plunge, you can bet that I'm going to try to convince them to become part of the SilverSneakers program.


Cost for SilverSneakers

From a financial and program perspective, it’s absolutely worth looking at health insurance plans that offer $0 additional - cost access (when included in your plan) to SilverSneakers gyms — and now, online classes too. Considering most fitness apps charge monthly fees, this feels like one of the best under-the-radar deals out there.





Why It Works for the New 65+ Crowd

Let’s be honest: you’ve probably already had a gym membership for years. You know your way around a treadmill, you’ve tracked your steps on your phone since the iPhone 3G, and you might already stream classes at home. SilverSneakers gets that — and they’ve evolved:

  • Big-name gyms are included: In many areas, chains like Planet Fitness participate. That means you can walk in with your SilverSneakers card instead of paying $20–$40/month out of pocket.

  • Pickleball is in the mix now: Many participating gyms and community centers now offer courts or classes. If you’ve been curious about trying the sport that’s taken over the country, this is your chance.

  • Hybrid is the norm: Want to train at home? SilverSneakers On-Demand and live online classes are included. That’s everything from yoga to circuit training — without an added app subscription, if covered by your plan.


What It Costs

Here’s the part most people don’t realize:

  • If your Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan includes SilverSneakers, you have access at no additional cost beyond your plan premium.

  • That means $0 additional cost for access to participating gyms, classes, and online workouts (when the benefit is included in your plan).

  • You’ll still pay your normal health plan premium — which varies depending on where you live — but there’s no added line item for SilverSneakers.


Compare that to:

  • Planet Fitness basic membership: typically $10–$25/month.

  • Premium fitness apps: usually $10–$30/month.

  • Luxury gym memberships: easily $100+ per month.


Why It’s Worth Considering

Even if you love your current setup, SilverSneakers is about options. It’s the safety net that says:

  • You’re traveling? Find a SilverSneakers gym nearby.

  • Want to add variety? Drop into a yoga class, walk an indoor track, or hit pickleball with friends.

Bored with your app? Stream something different without paying extra (if included in your plan).


Bottom line: If your health plan includes SilverSneakers, it can be a valuable perk. Even if it’s just your “backup” membership, the mix of gyms, pickleball, and online classes makes it one of the smartest zero-cost perks out there.


What to Double-Check Before You Commit

Because availability can vary”:

  1. Verify your plan — is SilverSneakers included? What level (just basic gym? classes? pool? courts?). Click this link to verify SilverSneakers eligibility. And if you are considering changing plans, it's best to chat with one of our agents to see if it covers SilverSneakers.

  2. Check local participating gyms — see if places you already like are part of the network. Also, check which amenities are included at those specific locations.

  3. Extra cost clauses — Are there “premium” levels? Are some hours restricted? Do courts (like pickleball) cost extra or require reservations?

  4. Digital offerings — Does your network / plan give access to on-demand, streaming, online classes?

  5. Flexibility for travel — If you’re seasonal or travel, check if you can access clubs in other cities/states under the network.



Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Benefits, costs, and coverage vary by plan and area. Medicare rules may change. Note not all Medicare Advantage or Medigap plans include SilverSneakers. Availability and program features may vary by plan and location. Enrollees continue to pay their plan premiums, copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. Talk with a licensed insurance agent to verify if SilverSneakers is included in your plan.

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Last Updated 10.01.2025​​​​​​

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