Independence Blue Cross Offers New Free Fitness Program to Medica...( PHILADELPHIA Feb. 1 /- Independen...),Health

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Independence Blue Cross (IBC) announced it is offering the award-winning Healthways SilverSneakers(R) Fitness Program to its Medicare Advantage members. Nearly 70 percent of people who participate in this nationwide program report improved overall health.

The program provides members in IBC's Keystone 65, Personal Choice 65, and Select Advantage health plans a free basic membership at any participating SilverSneakers or Silver Access fitness center that promotes physical activity, along with specialized fitness classes, aerobics and social events.

"We are committed to strengthening the health of our members in the Philadelphia region by offering innovative wellness initiatives like SilverSneakers," said Joseph A. Frick, president and CEO of IBC. "By removing gym fees and offering tailored fitness and social programs for Medicare Advantage members, we hope to encourage more members to get physically active and stay well."

The SilverSneakers program includes a network of fitness centers in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. There are two types of locations: SilverSneakers and Silver Access fitness centers. Both offer free access to amenities such as treadmills and weights included in the basic gym membership.

In addition, SilverSneakers centers offer members specialized fitness classes taught by certified SilverSneakers instructors. The classes focus on improving strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. Also, each SilverSneakers fitness center has a trained Senior Advisor who assists members in using center resources and classes. A unique reciprocity agreement allows SilverSneakers members to visit any of more than 2600 participating locations when they travel. Members who enroll at a Silver Access location may also attend specialized fitness classes at any SilverSneakers location.

IBC Medicare Advantage members only need to show their IBC identification
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