50+ Programs

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP)

Keep moving with this low-impact physical activity program proven to reduce pain and decrease stiffness.  This recreational, chair-based exercise class includes range of motion exercises that are suitable for every fitness level and ability.  $3 donation suggested.

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶   10–10:45 a.m. 

Cardio Chair Drumming 

You become the music in this full body workout that leaves you smiling and ready for the day. Class is done seated in a chair while drumming on a big stability ball or floor. We provide everything you need. All abilities welcome, we do not go down to the floor.

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays   ▶   8–8:50 p.m.   ▶   Register

Easy Does It 

This class focuses on gentle movements for your joints, stretches for your muscles, balance work for fall prevention, followed by breathwork and relaxation for the mind/body and stress.The class is 1/2 standing, 1/2 sitting in a chair. We do not go down to the floor. Instructor: Kim

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶  12–12:50 p.m.   ▶   Register

CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINERS

Call the Merriam Community Center at 913-322-5550 to register.

PHYLLIS PETERSON

Energetic, fun, and knowledgeable, Phyllis can help you with your fitness quest!  With more than 30 years of experience, she specializes in core, strength, cardio training, weight management, and senior fitness. 

Maryellen Potts, Ph.D.

With more than 20 years of experience and a background in dance and correct postural alignment, Maryellen specializes in yoga and strength training. She believes fitness should improve physical functioning while being fun and habit-forming.

Cecilia walther, nasm-cpt

With a degree in exercise science and extensive coaching experience, Cecilia loves to help others reach their fitness goals. She believes physical activity should be enjoyable and become a lifestyle.

Package Rate for 60-Minute Sessions*

 ▶ $45 per session   ▶  $160 for 4 sessions  ▶ $280 for 8 sessions  ▶ $360 for 12 sessions 

Small Group Rates*

▶ $35/person for two people  ▶ $30/person for three people  ▶ $25/person for four people

 *Non-members are also required to buy a day pass to participate in personal or small group training sessions.

General Fitness Center Orientation

If you are new to the gym or interested in learning more about how to use the fitness equipment, we can help!  Ask any fitness attendant on duty how to safely and effectively use the strength and cardio machines.  FREE for members.

Fitness Evaluation

Receive a personal evaluation of your current fitness level.  The evaluation includes testing your cardiovascular health and strength, mobility, and flexibility levels.  You'll receive an explanation of your results and have the option to talk about creating a plan to help you reach your goals.  Dress in comfortable athletic clothing and wear closed-toe shoes.  

 $20  ▶ Call 913-322-5550 to register

Fitness Program Consultation

Work with a fitness consultant to help establish a program based on your goals.  During this one-hour visit, a fitness professional will help you identify your fitness goals, formulate a plan, and walk you through the program to ensure you're comfortable with the routine.  Contact our fitness coordinator to schedule your session. 

$45  ▶ Preregister through  email

Pickleball

Part tennis, part badminton, part ping-pong, all fun! This easy-to-learn, eye-hand coordination game is growing rapidly in popularity.  With all equipment provided, the only thing you need is a partner and a positive attitude! Maximum of 24 participants in the gym. Must have a Punch Pass or be a member to play!

Monday, Wednesday, Fridays  ▶  8 a.m.–noon 

FREE for members  ▶  $20 for 10 punch pass  //  $40 for 20 punch pass

Beginner Pickleball

Learn how to play this fun and addictive game!  Figure out game fundamentals, scoring, and strategy while playing alongside fellow beginners..  Equipment is provided.  Instructor: Slocum

Wednesdays  ▶  Monthly  ▶  Indoor  ▶ 11–Noon  ▶  Register

Tuesdays  ▶  Outdoor  ▶ 5:30–6:30 p.m.  ▶  Register 

Bingo

Join us on the second Thursday of each month for a spirited game of bingo! You can socialize and test your luck while enjoying the company of friends. Prizes include gift cards and consumables.  

1:30–3:30 p.m. ▶ $3 collected day of event

Aug. 10  ▶ Sept. 14  ▶ Oct. 12  ▶ Nov. 9  ▶ Dec. 14

Silver Screen Matinee

Bring a friend to a FREE movie in a relaxed environment. We provide a "joke of the day", requests for future flicks are welcomed. (Movies subject to change.) Schedules are available at the front office and highlighted in the bi-monthly "Boomer Buzz" newsletter.

Wednesdays  ▶  1 p.m.  ▶  FREE 

Current Movie List(PDF, 575KB)

Lunch and Learn: Spooktacular

Join fellow enthusiasts as you learn about fun facts and test your wit at this lunch and learn event. Enjoy games and make new friends! Register online or at the Welcome Desk. Bring a tasty dish to share and dress spooky to celebrate Halloween!

Friday, Oct. 27  ▶  12–1 p.m.  ▶  $5  ▶  Register

AARP Smart Driver Course

“R” is for reverse, “D” is for drive; some things don’t change but our reflexes sure do as we mature and vehicles are different from when we first started driving. Hone your driving skills with this Smart Driver Course. AARP prefers interested students pre-register with the facility and give the instructor the check made out to AARP the first date of the class. Instructor: AARP

Saturday, Sept. 23  ▶  9 a.m.–1:30 p.m. ▶  $20/AARP member  /  $25/non-member

Speed Stacking for Seniors

In this class you will learn cup stacking patterns that challenge your brain to make new connections between the right and left hemispheres. When the two brain hemispheres work together it organizes the brain for better concentration and problem solving. This cross lateral activity increases blood flow in all parts of the brain and makes it more alert. This activity can be done sitting or standing. Instructor: Elaine

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  Oct. 10–Nov. 16  ▶  10–10:45 a.m.   ▶  Register

 Johnson County Nutrition Program

This meal program is offered at 11:30 a.m. each weekday. Home delivered meals are available for anyone who is unable to come to the community center. Small donation requested. The home delivered meal program is not possible without dedicated volunteers. Please call 913-677-2048 for more information about the program, make a reservation, or inquire about volunteering. 

Boomer Buzz

Bimonthly Newsletter providing listings of special events, programs and classes dedicated tot he 50+ age group. To be placed on this mailing list, complete this form.

Swim Lessons

Adult lessons are designed to help each participant reach personal goals. Whether you want to be a proficient lap swimmer, learn to float, or acquire water safety skills, instructors will work to ensure your success! Designed for participants 13 and older.

Mondays and Wednesdays  ▶   Register

Private and Semi-Private Lessons

Get four, 30-minute lessons tailored just for you. Available for ages 3+. 

$90 for private lessons, $85 for semi-private.

Learn More

Walking for Health

Walking has numerous health benefits and is an excellent way to begin or enhance your fitness routine. This program allows you a simple, affordable way to exercise at a pace that fits your level. This program isn't instructor-led, but if you need guidance on how to begin your walking program staff will gladly provide assistance!

Monday–Friday  ▶  8:30–11:30 a.m.  ▶  $12.50 for 20 punch pass available at the Welcome Desk 

Aqua Flow - a Taijifit experience  

Taijifit is a series of slow movements and stretches that flow into the next without pause staying in constant motion connecting mind, body and breath.  Nothing to learn, just follow along.  Water provides a gentle resistance and added balance. Instructor: Kim

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays  ▶  9:50–10:40 a.m.  ▶  Register

Aqua Interval Fitness 

This class combines cardio and strength training intervals using noodles and dumbbells at varying intensities. Increase stamina, strength, flexibility, and joint range of motion. Appropriate for all fitness levels; ability to swim not necessary. Water shoes or sneakers are encouraged. Instructor: Maryellen

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  6–7 p.m.   ▶  Register

Cardio Splash   

This class is full of fun, energy, music, and laughs. Regardless of your age, size, or fitness level, Aqua Zumba enhances your overall fitness improves your stability and balance in and out of the water. Instructor: Kim 

Monday, Wednesdays, Fridays  ▶  9–9:50 a.m.  ▶  Register

Phyllis' Water Therapy

Improve balance, reduce joint stiffness, increase flexibility, and have better overall mobility. This class is held in the warm water therapy pool. Instructor: Phyllis

Mondays  ▶  1–1:20 p.m.  ▶  Register

Water Aerobics  

A moderate- to high-intensity class consisting of cardio and toning to improve cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength. Instructor: Phyllis

Saturdays  ▶  9–9:45 a.m.  ▶  Register

Water Walking/Therapy Exercise   

This class is designed to improve your mobility, stability, and flexibility. Instructor: Peterson

Mondays  ▶  12–12:45 p.m.  ▶  Register

Warm Water Therapy 1

Improve balance, reduce joint stiffness, increase flexibility, and have better overall mobility. This class is held in the warm water therapy pool. Instructor: Bennie

Mondays  ▶  11:15 a.m-12 p.m.  ▶  Register

Warm Water Therapy 2

This program is for those who have been in this program before and are further along in their therapy journey. The goals are to improve balance, reduce joint stiffness, increase flexibility, and have better overall mobility. This class is held in the warm water therapy pool.Instructor: Bennie

Wednesdays  ▶  12:15–1 p.m.  ▶  Register

Savvy Seminars

Whether you are saving for retirement, education, planning a legacy or simply wanting to protect your financial future these classes have your answers. These seminars are FREE on the first Wednesday of every month.

Healthcare and Your Retirement  ▶ Wednesday, Oct. 4  ▶  6–7 p.m.  ▶  Presented by Edward Jones

Outsmarting Scammers  ▶ Wednesday, Nov. 1  ▶  6–7 p.m.  ▶ Presented by AT&T

Getting to Know your Cell Phone  ▶ Wednesday, Dec. 6  ▶  6–7 p.m.  ▶ Presented by AT&T 

Adult DIY: Fall Jewelry & Wine

Join us to make this beautiful copper, oak leaf necklace and enjoy an evening of crafting and wine. Be sure to bring your friends! Supplies and wine are included. Instructor: Ingrid

Tuesday, Sept. 26  ▶  6–7 p.m.  ▶  Register

Puzzle Palooza

Puzzle Palooza is a two-hour jigsaw puzzle building competition. Teams of four will race to complete a 500-piece puzzle while competing for prizes. The top three teams will receive prizes for finishing the puzzle the fastest. Team of 2-4 players. The family-friendly event includes snacks and an optional puzzle swap table where you can bring a puzzle and take another one home. Instructor: Renee

Sunday  ▶  Sept. 24  ▶  2-4:30 p.m.  ▶  Register

Women's Situational Awareness Workshop

The main object of this presentation is to address personal mindset and individual situational awareness. This course is PRIMARILY discussion based. Some physical applications will be demonstrated. There are a few videos that will be shown along with a few basic strikes and escapes. 

Instructor: Merriam Police Department

Thursday, Sept. 28  ▶  5-7 p.m.  ▶ Register

Kitten Yoga

What’s more fun than kittens and yoga? Join us in partnership with Melissa’s Second Changes Animal Rescue for a morning of gentle movement with playful kittens. You’ll have time after class to play with your furry friends. You may even find a new family member to take home! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the rescue shelter. Instructor: Portia

Saturday, Sept. 30  ▶  10–11 a.m.  ▶  Register

Handling the Holidays for Health

Holidays are a stressful time and sticking to your better health goals can be difficult. Learn easy and doable tips, tricks, and recipes to help you maintain or improve your health this holiday season. Instructor: Johnson County K-State Research and Extension

Saturday  ▶  Nov. 14  ▶  6:30–7:30 p.m.  ▶  Register

Iyengar Chair Yoga

This is a gentler form of practicing yoga postures while sitting or standing, using a chair for support. It's beneficial for anyone as it increases flexibility, improves strength, and reduces tension.  In addition to yoga poses and Iyengar principles, breathing techniques are also part of the practice. All classes end with a short period of deep relaxation. Instructor: Rafael, CIYT

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  11–11:45 a.m.  ▶  Register

Restorative Yoga 

This slower–paced, meditative yoga is a gentle practice designed to promote slowing down and opening the body through gentle stretching. The class is designed to increase flexibility and mobility, reduce stress and anxiety, and release body tension. There are indoor and outdoor classes available. Instructor: Portia

Mondays & Saturdays ▶  4:45-5:45 p.m. / 8:15-9:30 a.m.  ▶  Register

The Ki Society

You're invited to have a new experience learning the five disciplines of the Ki Society (ki-breathing, ki-meditation, aikido, kiatsu, and bell meditation). These practices are fundamental to an awareness of our natural state of being. Please wear pants and shirt that are suitable for mild exercise. Instructors: Vic (4th degree), Derrick (1st degree)

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  5:30–8:30 p.m. / 5–6:30 p.m.  ▶  Register