The short answer to whether you can get free gym memberships with health insurance is “no.” PruHealth, which used to offer this perk, now offers 25% off standard gym memberships. This change has affected both new and existing customers. PruHealth now offers its Vitality programme in which customers can amass Vitality points to get rewards such as savings on Eurostar, Cineworld, and Mark Warner Holidays. Customers build up points by walking, eating healthier, quitting smoking, and going to the gym.

However, there are other ways to cut gym membership costs. Some employers offer staff discounts, and some clubs, like Total Fitness Leisure Clubs, offer discounts for over-55s. Some gyms will waive the one-off joining fee if you ask, and there are clubs that offer discounts for those who attend during off-peak hours.

Gyms like Nuffield Health and Fitness First offer one-day free trial passes, and many gyms allow existing members to bring along a guest for a one-day free trial. But chains aren’t the only options. Some local leisure centres have excellent rates, and many offer the option of paying for each individual visit – a great choice for those who aren’t sure they can commit to a monthly membership.

So even though the days of free gym memberships with health insurance policies appear to be over for the present, there are still many options for saving money on getting fit.