Maintaining a gym membership can be expensive, but did you know that certain credit cards can help offset those costs? Whether you're a daily fitness enthusiast or just looking to stay in shape once a week, choosing the right credit card could reduce your gym expenses while also offering valuable perks.
We'll explore some of the best credit cards for gym memberships, plus offer tips on choosing the right one for your needs so you can maximize your savings.
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First the basics: what is a gym membership card?
A gym membership card is essentially your gateway to accessing the services and facilities of a fitness center. It can be a physical card, a virtual card, or even a code that lets you into the gym.
Now, you might be thinking, “Can I use a credit card for a gym membership?” Yes! You can pay your monthly or annual gym fees with a credit card. Choosing a card strategically not only allows for more convenient payments, but it can also unlock a range of benefits.
Some cards offer direct discounts on gym fees, while others provide cash back or points that can be redeemed for fitness-related purchases. So, the best credit card for your gym membership depends on your financial goals.
Choose right: How can I save money on my gym membership?
Wondering, “What card should I put my gym membership on?” Here are some tips and features to consider when choosing a credit card with fitness-related benefits to help you save money:
- Look for introductory offers: Many credit cards come with introductory offers that can include bonus points or cash back after spending a certain amount within the first few months. If your gym membership is a significant expense, this could be a great way to earn rewards quickly.
- Check for fitness-related benefits: Some credit cards offer specific benefits for gym memberships, such as discounts, statement credits, or bonus points for fitness-related purchases.
- Choose a card with cash back or reward points: Opt for a card that offers cash back or rewards points for general spending. You can then use these rewards to offset the cost of your gym membership.
- Consider cards with gym partnerships: Some credit cards have partnerships with specific gyms or fitness brands, offering exclusive discounts or perks.
Having these benefits in mind, we put together a list for you to choose the best credit card that pays for gym membership.
5 of the best credit cards for gym membership
Whether you're looking to earn rewards on every gym visit or simply want to offset the cost of your membership, these five credit cards provide excellent value for fitness enthusiasts.
This credit card offers 3% cash back in a category of your choice—including online shopping, which can cover online fitness memberships. Since it has no fee, this is a free credit card that pays for a gym membership.
Annual fee: $0
Perks: Flexibility in choosing your 3% category, no annual fee, good for online fitness memberships
It offers the flexibility to use points for gym memberships through the “Pay Yourself Back” program. Depending on the redemption you make, it will get you 1 cent to 1.5 cents back per dollar.
Pay Yourself Back is a program of Chase Ultimate Rewards that was introduced during the COVID-19 lockdown of 2020 and is available for Freedom, Sapphire, and Ink cards. You can choose to receive a statement credit on one or more of your eligible purchases.
Annual fee: $550
Perks: $300 annual travel credit, 3x points on dining and travel, access to airport lounges
There are occasional Amex Offers for gym and fitness purchases. Amex Offers helps card members earn rewards on purchases for things they love, such as fitness-related goods and services.
Customers can browse and add Amex Offers to their eligible card and earn extra rewards on qualifying purchases with select brands.
Annual fee: $250
Perks: Monthly dining credits, strong rewards on everyday spending, Amex Offers
You can earn ThankYou Points for purchases made on your card: one ThankYou Point for each $1 spent on purchases not related to tourism, restaurants, supermarkets, gas and EV charging stations.
Annual fee: $95
Perks: Points are transferable to various travel partners, solid rewards on travel-related expenses
This could also be your free gym membership credit card since it has no fees. It offers 5% cash back on two categories of your choice, which can include gyms and fitness centers, and also sporting goods stores.
To earn cash back, the card holders have to choose and activate their Cash+ Categories. They can redeem cash back anytime online.
Annual fee: $0
Perks: You can customize your 5% cash back categories and get an additional 2% cash back on another category of your choice
Eager for more details? These are some of the most common queries about using credit cards for gym memberships.
FAQs
What credit card to use for ClassPass?
ClassPass is a popular fitness subscription service that offers access to various gyms and studios. The Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Gold Card could be excellent choices for ClassPass due to their high earning rates on purchases that sometimes include ClassPass.
Does a gym membership count as credit?
A gym membership itself does not count as credit. However, if you pay for your membership with a credit card, it will be treated like any other purchase on your card, contributing to your overall credit card balance.
What do you put on a membership card?
A membership card typically includes your name, membership number, and the name of the gym or fitness center. It may also have a barcode or magnetic strip for easy check-in.
Do gym memberships report to credit?
Can gym membership go on a credit report? Generally, gym memberships do not report to credit bureaus unless you fail to pay your dues and the account goes into collections. If this happens, it could negatively impact your credit score.
What are some Chase gym membership discounts?
With the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can earn 3x points on dining and travel, which can include fitness-related travel such as gym memberships at hotels or resorts. Additionally, Chase has been known to offer statement credits for certain fitness-related purchases through its "Pay Yourself Back" program, where you can redeem points to cover gym expenses.
Does Amex offer gym membership discounts?
Yes, American Express often provides targeted Amex Offers that include discounts or statement credits for gym memberships and fitness-related purchases. These offers vary, so it's a good idea to regularly check your Amex account for the latest deals.
What type of expense is a gym membership?
A gym membership is typically considered a personal expense, falling under the category of discretionary spending. This means it's an optional expense that isn't necessary for basic living needs but is chosen based on personal preferences and lifestyle.