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# Will the NDIS Fund My Gym Membership in 2025? If you're an NDIS participant wondering whether your plan will cover a gym membership in 2025, you're not alone. This is one of the most frequently asked questions about NDIS funding, and the answer might surprise you. While the [NDIS does not fund gym memberships](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/improved-health-and-wellbeing/gym-membership) directly, there are alternative ways to access fitness-related supports through your plan. Understanding these options and the recent legislative changes can help you make the most of your NDIS funding for health and wellbeing goals. With [717,001 participants](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025) now supported by the NDIS as of March 2025, questions about what can and cannot be funded continue to evolve. Let's explore the current policies, alternative supports, and practical strategies for managing your fitness needs within the NDIS framework. ## Understanding NDIS Policies on Gym Memberships The NDIS position on gym memberships is clear and consistent: [gym memberships are classified as day-to-day living costs](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/improved-health-and-wellbeing/gym-membership) and are not funded by the scheme. According to NDIS guidelines, "We would not fund a gym membership as it's not an NDIS support. It is a day-to-day living cost not related to [the participant's] disability support needs." This policy stems from how the NDIS categorises supports across three main budgets: Core, Capital, and Capacity Building. Under the [Capacity Building - Improved Health & Wellbeing](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan/support-budgets-your-plan) category, while exercise or diet advice may be funded if disability-related, gym memberships specifically are excluded. The reasoning behind this exclusion relates to the [reasonable and necessary criteria](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports) that all NDIS supports must meet. Supports must be related to your disability, represent value for money, and not duplicate informal supports or services available to all Australians. Gym memberships are considered a general community service available to everyone, rather than a disability-specific support. Furthermore, gym memberships are explicitly listed among [supports that cannot be funded](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/how-ndis-supports-work-menu/reasonable-and-necessary-supports/how-we-work-out-if-support-meets-funding-criteria/what-types-supports-cant-be-funded-or-provided-under-ndis), alongside other day-to-day living expenses. This classification has remained consistent even as the NDIS has evolved and expanded its support offerings. It's important to understand that this policy applies regardless of how the gym membership might benefit your health or disability management. Even if regular exercise is recommended by your healthcare team as part of managing your condition, the membership fee itself remains an ineligible expense under current NDIS guidelines. ## Alternative Supports Related to Gym Use While NDIS won't cover your gym membership directly, [participants may fund supports related to using the gym](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/improved-health-and-wellbeing/gym-membership) if these supports are directly tied to their disability needs. This distinction is crucial for maximising your plan's potential. Consider Suresh's case from the NDIS guidelines: when he asked for gym membership funding, the NDIS funded his transport to the gym and a support worker to assist him, but not the membership itself. Similarly, Sue self-funded her gym membership but received NDIS funding for a support worker to help her use the equipment safely and effectively. Transport supports can be particularly valuable for gym access. If your disability affects your ability to travel independently, you may be eligible for [transport funding](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan/support-budgets-your-plan) to get to and from fitness facilities. This could include taxi vouchers, modified vehicle funding, or support worker assistance with public transport. Support worker assistance represents another significant opportunity. If you need help with equipment setup, exercise technique, or personal care while exercising, these supports can be funded under your Core budget. The key is demonstrating that the support directly relates to your disability needs rather than general fitness guidance available to all gym members. Equipment modifications or assistive technology for exercise can also be considered under Capital supports. This might include specialised exercise equipment, mobility aids for gym use, or home modifications to create accessible exercise spaces. For comprehensive information about what supports are available, check out our [Ultimate Guide to NDIS-Funded Services and Supports](/posts/your-ultimate-guide-to-ndis-funded-services-and-supports-f10e9bc6). Some participants have successfully accessed exercise physiology services through their Capacity Building budget. Hayley's story illustrates this well - she accessed the NeuroMoves telehealth program with NDIS covering one-on-one exercise physiology sessions at home, focusing on her specific neurological needs. ## Recent NDIS Legislative Changes Affecting Support Funding The NDIS landscape changed significantly on 3 October 2024 with the introduction of [new legislative changes](https://ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation) that affect how supports are defined and funded. These changes introduced an approved supports list and a replacement rule that impacts how participants can use their funding. Under the new framework, gym memberships are explicitly on the "cannot cover" list, and the replacement rule allows substitution only in very limited circumstances. The replacement rule permits participants to purchase alternative supports that achieve the same outcome as an approved support, but this doesn't extend to replacing approved supports with excluded items like gym memberships. This legislative change reinforces the existing policy while providing clearer boundaries around what constitutes an NDIS support. The [new definition of NDIS supports](https://ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation) aims to ensure funding is directed toward disability-specific needs rather than general lifestyle expenses. The 2025-26 Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL), [released on 16 June 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released), don't include gym memberships in the Support Catalogue, further cementing their exclusion from NDIS funding. However, the [3.95% price increase](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10775-fairer-and-more-equitable-pricing-ndis-participants) effective from 1 July 2025 does apply to eligible fitness-related supports like exercise physiology and support worker services. For participants interested in understanding these changes better, our guide on [Navigating Self-Management of NDIS Funding in 2024](/posts/navigating-self-management-of-ndis-funding-in-2024-c56c7246) provides detailed insights into managing funding under the new legislative framework. Additionally, our comprehensive overview of [NDIS and Gym Memberships](/posts/can-ndis-cover-my-gym-membership-in-2024-6802fd61) explores these policy implications in greater detail. Understanding these legislative changes is crucial for participants who want to maximise their plan effectiveness while staying within policy boundaries. The changes don't eliminate opportunities for fitness-related supports but do require more strategic planning around how these supports are accessed and justified. ## Strategies for Managing Fitness Supports with NDIS Plans Successfully incorporating fitness supports into your NDIS plan requires strategic thinking and careful documentation of your disability-related needs. Self-managers have particular flexibility in this area, provided they follow [self-management guidelines](https://ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/self-management/what-you-can-buy-self-manager) and maintain proper records. Start by clearly identifying how fitness activities relate to your disability goals. Document recommendations from your healthcare team about specific exercise needs, mobility improvements, or health management strategies. This documentation becomes crucial when justifying support worker assistance, transport needs, or specialised equipment purchases. Consider Monty's approach: he used NDIS funding for support workers to accompany him to the gym and cycling club, while self-organising peer supports and accessing funded transport. This strategy maximised his plan's impact while staying within policy guidelines. The key was demonstrating that each funded element directly supported his disability-related needs. Plan managers can be invaluable allies in this process. They understand the nuances of different budget categories and can help you identify legitimate ways to fund fitness-related supports. Work with your plan manager to explore options within your Capacity Building - Health & Wellbeing budget, which might include exercise physiology, physiotherapy, or occupational therapy services that incorporate fitness elements. Transport planning deserves special attention. If you need [NDIS transport funding](/posts/understanding-ndis-transport-funding-options-and-limitations-bffcb45b) to access fitness facilities, document your specific mobility challenges and how they prevent independent travel. This might include physical barriers, cognitive challenges with navigation, or safety concerns related to your disability. Home-based alternatives can sometimes offer better value and flexibility. Consider whether modifications to your home environment might support your fitness goals more effectively than gym access. Our guide to [NDIS bathroom renovation funding](/posts/navigating-the-ndis-bathroom-renovation-funding-process-0157d542) illustrates how home modifications can support health and wellbeing goals, and similar principles apply to creating accessible exercise spaces. For participants in rental properties, explore options for portable equipment or temporary modifications that don't require permanent changes. Our article on [NDIS funding for rental property modifications](/posts/can-ndis-fund-modifications-to-a-rental-property-723e6cef) provides insights into navigating these situations. Community participation funding offers another avenue worth exploring. Group fitness activities, sports clubs, or recreational programs might be fundable under this category if they address social isolation or community engagement goals related to your disability. Check out our guide on [innovative community participation ideas](/posts/exploring-innovative-community-participation-ideas-with-ndis-funding-88c81954) for creative approaches to this funding category. ## FAQs on NDIS and Fitness Supports **Can I use the replacement rule to get gym membership funding?** The replacement rule introduced in October 2024 has very limited application and doesn't allow substituting approved supports with excluded items like gym memberships. The [replacement rule criteria](https://www.ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation/frequently-asked-questions-about-legislation) require that alternative supports achieve the same outcome as an approved support, but gym memberships remain fundamentally excluded from NDIS funding. **What fitness-related supports can I definitely get funded?** Support worker assistance for exercise activities, transport to fitness facilities, exercise physiology services, physiotherapy incorporating fitness elements, and specialised exercise equipment can all potentially be funded if they directly relate to your disability needs. The key is demonstrating the disability connection and ensuring the support meets reasonable and necessary criteria. **How do I justify fitness supports in my plan review?** Document your disability-related fitness needs with healthcare professional recommendations, track outcomes from current supports, and clearly articulate how fitness activities address your plan goals. Focus on functional improvements, health management, and independence rather than general fitness benefits. **Can I get funding for a personal trainer?** Personal training services aren't typically funded unless provided by a qualified allied health professional like an exercise physiologist or physiotherapist. However, support worker assistance during exercise sessions can be funded if you need help due to your disability. **What if my doctor recommends gym membership for my condition?** While medical recommendations support the importance of exercise for your health, they don't override NDIS policy excluding gym memberships. However, such recommendations strengthen your case for related supports like transport, support worker assistance, or allied health services that incorporate exercise. The [2025-26 pricing arrangements](https://ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements) provide clear guidance on what services can be funded and at what rates, helping participants and providers understand the boundaries of NDIS support. Remember that staying informed about these policies helps you make the most effective use of your plan funding. ## Conclusion While the NDIS won't fund your gym membership directly in 2025, strategic planning can help you access valuable fitness-related supports through your plan. Focus on documenting your disability-related needs, exploring transport and support worker options, and working with knowledgeable plan managers to maximise your funding effectiveness. The key to success lies in understanding the distinction between general lifestyle expenses and disability-specific supports. By framing your fitness needs within this context and exploring creative alternatives, you can build a comprehensive approach to health and wellbeing that works within NDIS guidelines. Remember that policies and interpretations can evolve, so staying informed about changes and working with experienced professionals will help you navigate these complexities effectively. For personalised guidance on your specific situation, consider engaging with Sandi AI at [sandi.app](https://sandi.app) for tailored support in understanding your NDIS options. ## References 1. [Gym membership | NDIS](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/would-we-fund-it/improved-health-and-wellbeing/gym-membership) 2. [NDIS Quarterly Report, March 2025](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025) 3. [Support budgets in your plan](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/managing-your-plan/support-budgets-your-plan) 4. [Reasonable and necessary supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis/reasonable-and-necessary-supports) 5. [What types of supports can't be funded](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/how-ndis-supports-work-menu/reasonable-and-necessary-supports/how-we-work-out-if-support-meets-funding-criteria/what-types-supports-cant-be-funded-or-provided-under-ndis) 6. [Changes to NDIS legislation](https://ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation) 7. [2025-26 PAPL released](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released) 8. [Fairer and more equitable pricing](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10775-fairer-and-more-equitable-pricing-ndis-participants) 9. [What you can buy as a self-manager](https://ndis.gov.au/participants/using-your-plan/self-management/what-you-can-buy-self-manager) 10. [Pricing arrangements](https://ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements) 11. [FAQs – replacement supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation/frequently-asked-questions-about-legislation)

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Will the NDIS Fund My Gym Membership in 2025?

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Will the NDIS Fund My Gym Membership in 2025?