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   ▶   8:00 - 8:50 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.

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 - 11 a.m.▶ 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

Wednesday ▶ 11 - Noon  ▶ Register

Tuesday ▶ 6-7 p.m.  ▶ Register

Bingo

Let's all shout "BINGO!" Join us each month for a fun-filled afternoon!  Snacks are provided.  Prizes include gift cards and consumables. 

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

May 11: Springtime

July 13: Beach Day

August 10: Sunflower

Slide into Summer Bingo

Join us early for lunch and stay for bingo. Sandwiches, chips, and drinks are provided. We'll visit, eat and enjoy our bingo community! 

Noon-3:30 p.m. ▶ $5  ▶  Register

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, 608KB)

Fun and Weird Fitness Facts Lunch and Learn

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! Enjoy games and make new friends! Register online or at the welcome desk. Bring a tasty dish to share! Instructor: Kim

Friday, July 14  ▶  12-1:30 p.m. ▶ $5 ▶ Register

Board Game Bonanza

Join us for a morning of board games! Games are provided, but if you have a favorite, feel free to bring it and teach the group. Beverages and a light snack are provided. January 27, February 24, March 24 and April 28

Fourth Fridays  ▶  10-11:30 a.m. ▶ Free for members /  $3 non-members ▶ 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.

Private and Semi-Private Lessons

Get four, 30-minute lessons tailored just for you.

$90 for private lessons, $80 for semi-private.

Call 913-322-5550 for more information. 

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.  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 ▶  5:30 - 6:30 p.m. ▶ Register 

Aqua Tae Kwon Do

Movements in this class are based on Tae Kwon Do and its philosophy to help with elasticity, focus, and energy. Students must be able to move in the pool without assistance. Instructor: Claudia

Tuesdays  & Thursdays ▶  12-12:40 p.m.▶  Monthly  ▶ Register 

Cardio Splash 

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

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays ▶ 9-9:50 a.m. ▶ Register 

Warm Water Therapy

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

Wednesdays  ▶ 12 - 1 p.m.  ▶  Register

Friendship Art - The Art of Connections

Celebrate friendship during this painting party while enjoying a fun and relaxing evening filled with art and adult beverages! We'll create a spring floral piece in honor of Mother's Day. You'll paint on an 8x8 canvas with a pre-drawn design. All designs are created to connect with other canvases - like a best friend necklace- to celebrate connections to others! All supplies provided. Instructor: Suzanne

Thursday, May 11  ▶ 6:30-8:30 p.m.  ▶   $45 ▶ Register

Goat Yoga

Reduce your stress and anxiety while interacting with goats! Goat yoga reduces your stress hormones while increasing hormones that trigger your happiness to help release body tension.  This class will be held at the Merriam Marketplace. Instructor: Portia

Sunday, May 21  ▶ 10-11 a.m.  ▶   $40 ▶ Register

Exercises to Help Mobility: Knee, Hip and Low Back

Tight hips can lead to a domino effect of other body pain hot spots and even injuries. Since the hip flexors originate in the low back, tightness there can lead to stress on the low back and can continue down the line to the ankle. Learn techniques and exercises to help release pain and improve mobility, stability, and flexibility for the knee, hips and low back. Instructor: Phyllis

Saturday, June 3   ▶ 1-2 p.m.  ▶   $20   ▶ Register

Adult DIY - Sip, Sip Hooray + Wine

Enjoy an evening of crafting and wine as you make these super fun and easy wine glasses and gift bag! Be sure to bring your friends! All supplies plus wine included.  Instructors: Ingrid / Emily

Tuesday, June 27  ▶ 6-7 p.m.  ▶   $25 ▶ 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.  Instruction: Rafael, CIYT

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

TaijiFit  

Through a series of movements, TaijiFit is a graceful form of exercise to improve balance, enhance cognitive function and reduce stress.  This class is for any age or fitness level and can be completed seated or standing.  Instructor: Kim

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   12-12:50 p.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  ▶  6-8 p.m. / 5-6:30 p.m.  ▶   Register