Fitness tax credit: Should we be able to claim workout expenses on our taxes?

The Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) is asking the government of Canada to include gym memberships as an approved medical expense for tax credit.

Currently, line 33099 allows Canadians to claim up to $2,479 of medical expenses not covered by their provincial health plan for a tax credit. Approved expenses include things like laser eye surgery, braces/casts, crutches, and egg/sperm freezing. Other expenses, like the increased cost of gluten-free foods over normal food, air conditioners, and orthopedic shoes can also be claimed if prescribed by a physician.

Gyms and studios should also be considered tax deductible because long-term fitness helps people stay healthy and away from the doctor, says Gabriel Hardy, executive director of FIC. He says providing a range of equipment an