What is LA Fitness
LA Fitness is one of America’s largest gym chains, operating over 660 locations across 25 U.S. states and Canada. Founded in 1984, the company has built its reputation on offering full-service health club amenities at mid-range prices. Unlike budget gyms that focus purely on equipment, LA Fitness positions itself as a complete fitness destination with pools, basketball courts, racquetball, group classes, and personal training all under one roof.
What sets LA Fitness apart is the scope of what you get with membership. Most locations feature indoor lap pools and aquatic areas, full-size basketball and volleyball courts, racquetball courts, saunas, and an extensive group fitness schedule that includes everything from yoga and Pilates to cycling, kickboxing, and their signature LAF classes. The facilities feel more like athletic clubs than traditional gyms, which explains why the brand has maintained its market position despite competition from budget alternatives.
This isn’t just about having somewhere to work out. The CDC reports that regular physical activity can prevent an estimated 110,000 deaths per year among U.S. adults and reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and eight types of cancer. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly for cardiovascular health. A comprehensive fitness facility that provides access to cardio equipment, strength training, aquatics, and group classes is one of the most effective ways to meet these clinical guidelines.
Why LA Fitness Qualifies for HSA/FSA
According to IRS regulations, gym memberships can qualify as eligible medical expenses with a Letter of Medical Necessity under specific circumstances outlined in Publication 502.
IRS Publication 502 states that medical expenses are “the costs of diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, and for the purpose of affecting any part or function of the body,” but “must be primarily to alleviate or prevent a physical or mental condition or illness.”
Research published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation found that meeting physical activity guidelines is associated with a 14% reduced risk of coronary heart disease and approximately 40% reduction in cardiovascular disease mortality. For conditions like obesity, the CDC reports that over 40% of American adults have obesity, making structured fitness programs a clinically relevant intervention for a significant portion of the population.
This means LA Fitness membership can qualify for HSA/FSA reimbursement for prevention or treatment of:
- Obesity and weight management disorders
- Cardiovascular disease and hypertension
- Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- Chronic back pain and musculoskeletal conditions
- Arthritis and joint disorders
- Osteoporosis and bone density issues
- Metabolic syndrome
The key requirement is that your healthcare provider must document the gym membership as medically necessary for managing your specific health condition, not just for general wellness. This documentation comes in the form of a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).
How to Assess Your Eligibility
Traditional Route: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician, discuss your health conditions and fitness goals, and request a Letter of Medical Necessity if exercise is recommended as part of your treatment plan. This typically requires an office visit, potential wait times, and can cost $50-100+ depending on your insurance.
Faster, Smarter Route: Use Crates Health to get your Letter of Medical Necessity online in just a few minutes. Our platform connects you with licensed healthcare providers who can evaluate your conditions remotely and issue the appropriate documentation if you qualify. No office visits, no waiting weeks for appointments, and no surprise medical bills.
LA Fitness Membership Options and Pricing
LA Fitness offers several membership options depending on how many locations you want to access. Here’s what you can expect to pay and potentially reimburse through your HSA/FSA:
| Membership Type | Monthly Cost | Initiation Fee | Access Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Club | $29.95 – $29.99 | $0 | One location only |
| Multi-Club | $34.99 – $39.99 | $99 | Multiple locations in your region |
| Signature/Premier | $39.99 – $49.99 | $99 | All LA Fitness locations nationwide |
Additional Fees to Know About:
- Annual Fee: $59 (billed annually, typically around your enrollment anniversary)
- Personal Training: Additional packages available starting around $50-100/session
- Kids Klub: Childcare services available at select locations for an additional fee
Prices can vary by location and current promotions. LA Fitness frequently runs deals that waive or reduce initiation fees, so it’s worth asking about specials when you join. All of these costs can potentially be reimbursed through your HSA/FSA with proper documentation.
What’s Included With Every Membership
LA Fitness memberships include access to a comprehensive set of amenities that go well beyond basic gym equipment:
- Pools: Most locations feature indoor lap pools and aquatic areas
- Courts: Basketball, volleyball, and racquetball courts at many locations
- Group Fitness: Cycling, yoga, Pilates, Zumba, kickboxing, and more included with membership
- Sauna and Steam: Recovery amenities at most clubs
- Free Weights and Machines: Comprehensive strength training areas
- Cardio Equipment: Treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, and more with personal screens
