Insurance Based Fitness Programs at the Cortland YMCA
As a non-profit, the Y makes every effort to provide affordable membership access to active older adults.
Beginning January 1st, 2026 the Cortland YMCA will no longer be accepting any Medicare Advantage insurance memberships. After months of negotiations, the insurance companies refused to budge their monthly reimbursement to the YMCA, which is not even close to half of our current senior membership rate. This reimbursement model is ultimately not sustainable for the Y’s long-term future.
Members with current FitOn Health, Silver Sneakers, Active and Fit, Silver and Fit, and Renew Active will be eligible for a new, all-access Y Legacy membership. A membership with all of the same access as a traditional membership with a steep discount exclusive to those members who are part of our insurance memberships.
Why stay with the Y?
The YMCA creates a supportive environment for people of all ages to thrive. It helps you make new connections, have fun and improve your health through programs that fit your lifestyle. As a member of the Y, you benefit from:
- More classes designed for Senior fitness members.
- More activities and facilities for older adults.
- More staff to support and help members.
- More opportunities to connect and be social.
- More community: it’s the place and people members know and love!
- More access: as a Y Legacy Member, you’ll enjoy nationwide reciprocity at all participating YMCAs in the US. This means you can use any YMCA in the country!
- More impact: Our not-for-profit status means we live our mission each day, and your membership to the Y means you belong to an organization committed to ensuring everyone, regardless of ability to pay full price, can be part of the Y. From accessible childcare to included fitness classes your Y plays a critical strengthening role to our neighborhood. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to serving you in the years ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
What changed in 2026?
After months of negotiations, the insurance companies refused to budge their monthly reimbursement to the YMCA, which is not even close to half of our current senior membership rate. This reimbursement model is ultimately not sustainable for the Y’s long-term future.
What does this mean for current members?
Current members can use their insurance membership until December 31, 2025. They will need to adjust their memberships before using the YMCA in the new year. Members can enroll in the Y Legacy Membership for a reduced rate!
What does the Y Legacy Membership cost?
This deeply discounted, all-access membership will cost $15 a month for 2026, over half of the standard membership price. Year two will be $30 per month and Year three will be the current 2028 membership rates. If this adjustment is a financial hardship, Membership for All, the YMCA’s scholarship program is available and all are encouraged to apply. We offer anywhere from 10%-80% off, that would be on top of the discounted membership!
How can members update their memberships?
Talk to the front desk to learn how to update your membership seamlessly. You can also contact Carlotta Case our Membership Coordinator, who can better explain this transition and is here to answer any question. Carlotta can be reached at membership@cortlandymca.org, (607 756-2893, or most days at the desk.
Will there be a disruption in benefits?
No, by adjusting memberships before January 1, 2025, members won’t experience a disruption to the classes and offerings they know and love.