Best Credit Cards for Fitness and Gym Memberships
At a Glance
One of the most common expenses a person makes on a monthly basis is for a gym or general fitness membership. Putting this expense on a credit card can be a great way to earn points back for a recurring expense, but the best credit card for gym membership payments can maximize this benefit.
In this article, you’ll learn:
46%
of male gymgoers and 43% of female patrons use their smartphones while exercising at the gym.
Comparing the best credit cards with fitness perks
Determining which credit card to use for gym membership payments can be a challenge, but the below summary table highlights some of the most beneficial aspects of certain stand-out cards:
| Credit Card | Gym and Fitness benefits | Welcome Offer |
|---|---|---|
| World of Hyatt Credit Card | Earn 2 points per dollar on fitness clubs and gym memberships | Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months |
| U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card | Earn 5% cash back on Gyms/Fitness Centers | Earn a $200 Bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 120 days |
| Chase Freedom Flex | Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories, which may include gym memberships | Earn $200 cash back after spending $500 in the first 3 months |
| Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card | 5% cash back on Amazon.com purchases, including fitness equipment | Receive a $200 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval |
| Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card | Earn 2x miles per dollar on all other purchases | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months |
| American Express Platinum Card | Up to $300 back annually for Equinox memberships or Equinox+ app | Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months |
A closer look at the best credit cards for gym memberships
World of Hyatt Credit Card
Gym and fitness benefits: Earn 2 points per dollar on fitness clubs and gym memberships.
Intro APR: Not specified (please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for details).
Regular APR: 20.99% – 27.99% Variable.
Signup bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. Also, receive up to 30,000 more bonus points by earning 2 bonus points total per $1 spent on purchases that normally earn 1 bonus point, or up to $15,000 in the first six months of account opening.
Our verdict: While a World of Hyatt credit card may not be the first choice a person considers when thinking about the best gym membership payment card, it provides ample benefits. The low annual fee on this card makes it a great option for those on a tighter budget and provides an excellent 2x points on fitness and gym purchases, thus making it one of the best credit card with gym membership pairings. In addition to this, though, the card is best for those who frequently travel and stay at Hyatt hotels given the 9 points total for Hyatt stays.
Pros:
- Up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays.
- Earns 2 points per dollar on fitness clubs and gym memberships.
- Free night award each card member anniversary.
- An additional free night with annual spending.
- Hyatt Discoverist status and elite night credits.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Purchase protection and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.
Cons:
- $95 annual fee.
Apply now: The World of Hyatt Credit Card
U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card
Gym and fitness benefits: Earn 5% cash back on purchases at Gyms/Fitness Centers as one of your chosen 5% cash back categories.
Intro APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening on purchases.
Regular APR: 19.49% to 29.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate.
Signup bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.
Our verdict: The U.S. Bank Cash and Visa Signature Card is unique in that it allows you to choose which categories you earn the most cash back in. Luckily for the average health nut, this card lists gym and fitness center membership purchases as one of the cash back categories. As an added bonus, they broaden this category to include any purchase at these locations, meaning picking something as simple as a protein shake-up at your gym will earn you 5% back as well.
Pros:
- Earns 5% cash back on Gyms/Fitness Centers and other chosen 5% cash back categories.
- No annual fee.
- Intro APR offer on purchases.
- Customizable cash back categories.
- Opportunity to earn a signup bonus.
Cons:
- Variable APR based on creditworthiness.
- Balance transfer and cash advance fees.
Apply now: US Bank Cash+ ® Visa Signature ® Card
Chase Freedom Flex
Gym and fitness benefits: Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories, which may include gym memberships at certain times during the year (activation required). Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.
Intro APR: Not specified (please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for details).
Regular APR: 20.24%-28.99% Variable APR
Signup bonus: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
Our verdict: There are many rotating cash back category cards offered by a variety of companies, but the Chase Freedom Flex cards stands out as one of the best. The main reason for this is due to the fact that the 5% cash back offered by Chase features the most popular destinations for shoppers including sites like Amazon and locations such as Walmart. Chase has also been known to provide their 5% cash back feature on gym and fitness purchases, though it’s never guaranteed.
Pros:
- Earns 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories, which may include gym memberships.
- No annual fee.
- Earn $200 cash back as a signup bonus.
- Additional cash back on dining, travel, and drugstore purchases.
- Rewards can be combined with other Chase cards for more redemption options.
Cons:
- Rotating bonus categories, including gym memberships, may not always be available.
- Variable APR based on creditworthiness.
Apply now: Chase Freedom Flex℠
Learn more: Chase Freedom Flex Review
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
Gym and fitness benefits: While not explicitly mentioned, the card offers 5% cash back on purchases at Amazon.com, which includes a wide range of fitness equipment, gear, and exercise apparel that can be used for building a home gym or supporting fitness goals.
Intro APR: None (please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for details).
Regular APR: 19.24% to 27.24% variable.
Signup bonus: Receive a $200 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval.
Our verdict: Those who are addicted to shopping on Amazon should absolutely consider picking up the Rewards Visa Signature Card due to the 5% cash back through the website. This card is unique in that it’s not going to provide a benefit for a membership purchase to a gym, making it not a credit card gym membership option, but rather those who are looking for a home gym and in need of equipment should consider making the purchase through Amazon to make use of the 5% back.
Pros:
- No annual fee.
- Instant $200 Amazon gift card upon approval.
- 5% cash back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Unlimited cash back rewards.
Cons:
- Prime membership is required.
- 5% back on groceries only applies to purchases at Amazon.com or Whole Foods Market.
Apply now: Amazon Prime Visa
Learn more: Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Review
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Gym and fitness benefits: 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases.
Intro APR: Not specified (please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for details).
Regular APR: 21.99% – 28.99% variable APR
Signup bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Our verdict: Avid travelers who only travel by plane should absolutely consider signing up for the Venture X rewards card that is offered by Capital One. The reason for this is that this card offers miles back, instead of pure cash back, making it the best credit card for fitness specifically for those who can make use of the accumulated miles. The only downside to this card is the high annual fee, so those who don’t believe in paying large fees for credit cards should stay away.
Pros:
- Earns 75,000 bonus miles as a signup bonus.
- Up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings via Capital One Travel.
- Airport lounge access and Hertz President’s Circle elite status.
- Earns 10X miles on hotels and rental cars, and 5X miles on flights booked with Capital One Travel.
- No foreign transaction fees.
Cons:
- High annual fee of $395.
Apply now: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
American Express Platinum Card
Gym and fitness benefits: Cardholders can receive up to $300 back each year in statement credits for eligible Equinox memberships or the Equinox+ app.
Intro APR: Not specified (please refer to the card’s terms and conditions for details).
Regular APR: 20.99% to 28.99% variable APR
Signup bonus: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.
Our verdict: Seen as the older cousin to the infamous Gold Card offered by American Express, the Platinum Card is geared more toward travel. However, travelers who also choose Equinox as their gym of choice should pair this gym credit card with their membership. This card offers $300 cash back every single year towards an Equinox membership or on the Equinox app. This can reduce the monthly price by $25 per month, perhaps bringing it into the affordable range for some people.
Pros:
- Generous welcome offer of 80,000 Membership Rewards Points.
- 5X Membership Rewards Points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year).
- 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- Statement credits for Equinox memberships.
- Various other credits and benefits for travel, entertainment, and lifestyle.
Cons:
- High annual fee of $695.
- Additional terms and conditions may apply to certain benefits and credits.
Apply now: The Platinum Card® by American Express
How to choose a credit card to use for gym and fitness memberships
When choosing a credit card for gym and fitness memberships, consider the following factors. First, look for cards that offer rewards or cash back on fitness-related purchases. Cards that provide bonus points or higher cash back on gym memberships, fitness clubs, or wellness purchases can help maximize your savings. Additionally, consider the overall rewards structure of the card, such as bonus categories and earning potential on other everyday expenses. Look for cards with favorable terms, including low or no annual fees and competitive APRs. Lastly, assess any additional benefits like travel perks, purchase protections, or discounts on fitness-related services. By considering these factors, you can find a credit card that complements your fitness routine and offers financial rewards.
Methodology
The methodology used to determine the best credit cards for gym memberships involves thorough research and analysis. It includes evaluating the features and benefits of different credit cards, particularly those related to gym and fitness spending. Factors considered include rewards rates, signup bonuses, annual fees, intro APRs, regular APRs, and additional perks or benefits. Reviews and recommendations from reputable sources, such as credit card comparison websites, financial experts, and customer feedback, are also considered. The methodology aims to provide an objective assessment of credit cards that offer the most value and benefits for gym and fitness enthusiasts. It is important to review the specific terms and conditions of each card before deciding.
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