Amex adds virtual Equinox gym credit for select cardholders

More people than ever are participating in at-home workouts. For months, gyms and fitness studios were closed. Many of these facilities are now beginning to reopen, with gym-goers needing to weigh the risk of exposure while navigating new COVID-19 procedures.

According to a TD Ameritrade study, gym membership cancellations have been booming — up a whopping 563% year over year. That’s why fitness brands are going all-in on a hybrid blend of virtual and in-person workouts.

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Virtual fitness platforms, such as Peloton, stayed ahead of the curve. And earlier this year, popular boutique fitness brand Equinox launched a virtual workout app of its own, Variis. Now, Amex is partnering with Variis to provide statement credits for a monthly membership.

Related: Best credit cards for gym memberships and fitness equipment

Variis is a fitness platform with a standalone mobile app membership for all consumers, priced at $39.99 per month. There are a variety of Equinox live-streamed classes, workouts and it works in conjunction with the SoulCycle at-home bike.

This is how you can earn a statement credit, starting Oct. 9, 2020:

• Eligible cardholders with The Platinum Card® from American Express: up to $25 back each month in statement credits
• Eligible cardholders with the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: up to $10 back each month in statement credits
• Other eligible Amex cardholders: $10 back each month in statement credits for the first three months (available through April 1, 2021)

Related: A review of the Equinox Hotel at Hudson Yards 

Back in 2013, American Express ended Equinox benefits but they look to be teaming up yet again. While not at the level of benefits we say previously, this statement credit offer is a nice touch for those on the fence about purchasing a Variis membership.

This renewed Amex and Equinox partnerships looks to bring the next generation of wellness offerings to modern travelers on the move. In fact, the recently announced Centurion Lounge at New York-JFK will have an Equinox Body Lab studio, offering pre-flight restorative therapies.

Unfortunately, only Variis standalone memberships are eligible for the offer. Other Equinox memberships are not eligible to receive this credit. Since its release, all U.S. Equinox members receive complimentary access to Variis.

You can sign up for Variis and earn an automatic statement credit at the dedicated Amex and Variis link here. All Amex cardholders should be receiving more information on this benefit in the weeks to come.

Related: How to get access to a great gym everywhere you travel

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