7 days ago
Want to Earn 5% on Your Savings? This Bank Makes You Exercise for It
If you've been following CNET Money's recommendations for high-yield savings accounts, you probably know that snagging a high interest rate can help you grow your money faster than it would in a traditional savings or checking account.
Just a few years ago, it wasn't hard to find an HYSA with a 4% annual percentage yield, with some APYs going as high as 5%. In 2025, however, only a small number of banks are offering such good returns.
I went on a hunt to find the highest APY possible and saw a bank offering over 5%. As usual, there's a catch. But this one's unique. In fact, it's tailored to reward you for having an active lifestyle.
FitnessBank is an online-only bank offering 5% or 4.55% APY on your savings, depending on meeting certain requirements. I'd never heard of it before, but it's FDIC-insured to protect your money up to $250,000 per person.
I love working out, from indoor cycling to running. So, I took a closer look at FitnessBank's savings account requirements to learn more about maximizing my savings earnings. Here's what I found.
What to know about FitnessBank's interest-earning accounts
The Fitness Savings account has a rather interesting requirement: a step challenge. You'll need an average minimum of 10,000 steps daily, or 7,500 if you're 65 or older. Even if you fall short of your goal some days, the average for the statement period is what counts.
FitnessBank says running, swimming and cycling also count toward your goal. There are no step requirements for the first month.
To earn the "ultra rate" of 5% APY on your savings, you'll need to bundle your savings with FitnessBank's Elite checking account and meet the following combined criteria.
An average minimum balance of $5,000
Must use the FitnessBank Step Tracker to link your step data to your savings account
A minimum of 15 debit card purchases per statement cycle
A minimum $100 opening deposit
FitnessBank has other account options with above-average APYs as well.
If you meet all of the requirements, for example, the Elite checking account alone offers a rewarding interest rate of 5.35% APY. FitnessBank also offers a savings account without a checking account that earns 4.55% APY. If you can't make the step count, your APY will drop to a lower rate that's more in line with a traditional bank account.
A breakdown of criteria and corresponding interest rates is listed on the website.
Is FitnessBank's 5% APY worth it?
Choosing the right savings account depends on your lifestyle and needs. Most high-yield savings accounts don't offer 5% returns, but they might have more flexible requirements.
If you're worried about meeting FitnessBank's fitness and financial criteria, I'd recommend researching other high-yield savings accounts with above-average APYs that aren't as strict. For example, both Ally and Capital One have a savings APY of 3.60%, and you won't be penalized for kicking your feet up and relaxing.
These Are the Safest Places to Keep Your Money Right Now These Are the Safest Places to Keep Your Money Right Now
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These Are the Safest Places to Keep Your Money Right Now
