Is having abs part of your New Year’s resolutions for 2026? Or maybe you’re trying to be more consistent about working out, but don’t want to be roped into a contract or have to pay a ton of money for a gym membership? We’ve outlined methods (and loopholes) to help you get a gym membership for cheap — or even for free — so you can get to work on that beach bod. Do you have more tips? Share them in the comments.
Sign Up for Free Trials
This is a quick and easy one. Many gyms offer free trials to potential members with full access to their amenities, classes, and workout equipment. While most trials last only a few days, some can last several weeks or even a month. Pro tip: Sign up for trials at multiple facilities so you can decide which best fits your needs; each day that you get to work out for free equals more money in your pocket.
Get Your Health Insurance to Reimburse You
Since maintaining a healthy lifestyle will likely result in fewer trips to the doctor — lowering the chances of a provider having to pay for your health-related visits — your health insurance might reimburse you for the cost of a gym membership. Inquire with your provider to see if this is an option, as well as how much of the membership fee can be covered.
Sign Up at the End of the Month
Since gyms are required to meet a monthly sales quota, signing up for a gym membership at the end of the month will most likely help you snag the cheapest price. As at other businesses, sales agents at gyms must try and entice as many people to join as possible, giving you more leverage to negotiate a better deal. Chains such as Planet Fitness also routinely offer discounts; ask about these the next time you go in.
Ask for a Family or Group Discount
Some gyms will offer discounts to special groups such as seniors, veterans, members of the police or fire department, and even teachers. Other gyms offer bundle deals for larger groups, families, and corporate referrals. Reach out to a salesperson or manager to ask about these options, as they likely won’t be heavily advertised.
Compare Prices Online
Since gyms are always trying to get as many new members to join, prices may differ online vs. in-person. If you find a lower price online, take a screenshot and ask gym staff to honor the price.
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Put Your Negotiator Hat On
The fitness industry is a profitable one — pulling in more than $46 billion, according to Statista. And while it may feel awkward to bargain, remember that gyms want you to join so they can make money off you; you shouldn’t be shy about asking for the best deal. You might be surprised at how much you can save by just asking.
Ask for Payment Options
For most businesses, cash is still king — and gyms are no different, especially for smaller facilities. With a smaller gym, you may get a better rate by offering to pay in cash or upfront, rather than monthly. “One way to try and get a better price on a gym membership is to ask if there is a discount if you pay in full for three months, six months, or even a year,” advises personal trainer Kate Meier.
Download Fitness Apps
Though not exactly a gym membership, fitness apps such as ClassPass and FitOn can grant access to workout classes near you. Signing up is easy, and the all-in-one subscription offers users a wide range of options, from pilates, yoga, and cycling to wellness and even beauty treatments. (Of course there are also online-only apps, or free online tutorials that can help avoid the need for gym’s hefty fees for services such as personal training sessions and classes.)
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Use Employer Perks to Cut or Cover Your Gym Costs
Many companies offer gym discounts, wellness reimbursements, or subsidized fitness memberships, so check with HR or your benefits portal to see if you can get your fees reduced or even fully reimbursed.
More From Cheapism
- How to Get Your Health Insurance to Pay for a Gym Membership — Don’t just pay full price — check your insurance benefits for hidden wellness perks that could reimburse or even cover your gym fees and cut your fitness costs.
- 10 Costly Mistakes You’re Making at the Gym — Stop unknowingly wasting money on overpriced merch, unused amenities, and poor planning — avoiding these common gym blunders will keep more cash in your wallet.
- Is Your Gym Membership Holding You Hostage? Here’s How to Bust Out — If your membership feels like a financial trap, learn smart strategies to break free with minimal hassle and save money instead of paying forever for a plan you don’t use.
