HFA Applauds Medicare Expansion for GLP-1s, Urges Coverage for Physical Activity Next

WASHINGTON, DC-November 7, 2025 -The Health & Fitness Association released a statement about the Trump Administration's decision that Medicare would cover GLP-1 medications starting as soon as early 2026.

Statement from Mike Goscinski, Chief of Staff, Health & Fitness Association:

"Yesterday's announcement by the Trump Administration expanding Medicare coverage for GLP-1 medications is an important step toward addressing obesity and chronic disease among older Americans.

"This move builds on recent progress by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which-beginning in 2026-will reimburse physicians for conducting physical activity and nutrition assessments during patient visits, a policy the Health & Fitness Association and our partners at the Physical Activity Alliance strongly advocated for. Together, these efforts signal a meaningful shift toward prevention and lifestyle-based care in our nation's health system.

"To fully realize their impact, these advances must go hand-in-hand. GLP-1 medications are most effective when paired with structured exercise and behavior change. The next step is clear: Medicare should cover evidence-based physical activity programs and interventions delivered through trusted community partners like fitness centers, studios, and wellness facilities.

"Beyond weight management, regular physical activity-particularly strength training and balance-focused exercise-plays a vital role in preventing falls, the leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Expanding access to exercise-based prevention programs would not only improve quality of life but also reduce the substantial medical costs associated with fall-related injuries and hospitalizations.

"By connecting medical treatment to physical activity prescriptions and community-based support, we can help more Americans not only lose weight but also gain strength, mobility, and independence-the hallmarks of healthy aging.

"The Health & Fitness Association stands ready to work with CMS, HHS, and policymakers to ensure exercise is recognized-and reimbursed-as essential medicine."

About the Health & Fitness Association

The Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA), a global community of industry leaders, is the only worldwide trade association providing a unified voice for the community of leaders who operate health and fitness facilities, offer professional guidance on physical activity, and provide the tools and equipment to do so to the millions of fitness facility members who understand that exercise improves their physical and mental health.

Through advocacy, education, and research, the association speaks to opportunities, challenges, and changes that are moving the industry into a new era.

Founded in 1981, the association publishes a monthly magazine, Health & Fitness Business, and operates The HFA Show, the European Congress, and the Fly-In and Advocacy Summit. It also operates partnerships with ChinaFit, Fitness Brasil, and MEFIT Summit. Follow the Health & Fitness Association on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.