Adult Programs

WERQ  

This wildly addictive dance fitness class is based on the hottest hip-hop music. Beyond being easy to follow for all levels, WERQ is an effective cardio class that feels more like a dance club experience. Instructor: Wanda

Mondays  ▶   6:30–7:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

ZUMBA®

ZUMBA® is a fusion of Latin and international music– dance themes that create a fun, dynamic, and effective fitness system! The routines feature aerobic and fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. Instructor: Geniya

Tuesdays  ▶   5:25–6:25 p.m.   ▶   Register

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: Anna

Wednesdays  ▶   11 a.m.–12 p.m.   ▶  Register

Cardio & Strength   

Shape up with this exciting blend of step-interval and strength training! Workouts include a variety of equipment, including steps, free weights, TRX, slam balls, and more! Instructor: Phyllis

Tuesdays & Thursdays   ▶   6:30–7:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

Cross Training  

This strength and conditioning program combines many activities, including weightlifting, rowing, gymnastics, plyometrics, and medicine ball training. All movements can be modified. Come in over your lunch break for a 45-minute workout! Instructor: Cecilia

Tuesdays & Thursdays   ▶  12–12:45 p.m.   ▶   Register

Fit Camp  

This boot camp-inspired workout focuses on building strength and endurance through a combination of functional fitness movements.  Fit Camp can be adapted to all levels. Instructor: Wanda

Mondays  ▶   5:30–6:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

Kettlebell AMPD  

Get ready to combine great music with simple, effective kettlebell movements for a calorie–torching workout that is fun, safe, and accessible to all fitness levels! The class focuses on building muscular endurance with high repetition and low weights. Instructor: Piper

Saturdays  ▶   8:30–9:30 a.m.   ▶   Register

Morning Burn Bootcamp  

Wake up and workout before your day and excuses start.  Boot camp workouts are designed to elevate your results and push your limits.  This class focuses on maximum calorie burn, combining cardiovascular and endurance training.  Each workout will be unique, challenging and fun with adaptations for all skill levels from beginner to advanced.  Instructor: Caitlin

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays  ▶   6–7 a.m.   ▶   Register

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

Shape Up  

This class consists of high-intensity exercises and features cardio and resistance training to improve endurance, build strength, and increase energy. Instructor: Caitlin

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   4–4:50 p.m.   ▶   Register

Aikido Yoshinkan- Traditional Martial Arts   

The Yoshinkan style of aikido is a dynamic system of throwing, joint-locking, striking, and pinning techniques. At its core, aikido is a self-defense martial art used by many law enforcement agencies across the world as an effective way to safely neutralize aggression. Classes are structured so beginning and advanced students alike will all have a fun and challenging experience. Instructors: Mick (6th degree), Rafael (2nd degree) 

Thursdays & Saturdays  ▶   7–8:30 p.m. / 10–11 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. New students will receive 8 weeks of basic preparation during the first hour and are welcome to stay for the remainder of each class. Instructor:Vic (4th degree), Derrick (1st degree)

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

CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINERS

Call the Merriam Community Center at 913-322-5550 to sign up for personal training or a fitness evaluation. 

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, Na SM-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 Rates for 60-Minute Sessions*

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

 *Non-members are also required to buy a day pass to participate in personal training 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 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  ▶  Register by 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: Anna

Wednesdays  ▶  11 a.m.–Noon  ▶  Register 

KU Sensory Enhanced Aquatics

This class provides swimming and water safety lessons for children who are on the autism spectrum. Traditional learn–to–swim methods are combined with sensory strategies matched to the unique needs of each swimmer. Individual and small–group lessons are available. Instructors: The University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Occupational Therapy Education Staff

Wednesdays   ▶  Sept. 13–Dec. 6  ▶  6:30–7:15 p.m.  ▶   Register  ▶  REGISTRATION AUGUST 18

Wednesdays   ▶  Sept. 13–Dec. 6  ▶  7:20–8:05 p.m.  ▶   Register  ▶  REGISTRATION AUGUST 18

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

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  ▶   11–11:45 a.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

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

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

Gentle Iyengar Yoga 

This slower-paced class aims to increase mobility and reduce discomfort. Poses are taught with additional modifications for those with ongoing or mild-to-chronic conditions and older students. A doctor’s permission is requested. Instructor: Rafael, CIYT  

Thursdays  ▶   9:15–10:40 a.m.   ▶  Register

Iyengar Yoga - Level 1

Developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, this class emphasizes detail, precision, and alignment for maximum balance and flexibility. This style often uses props such as mats, chairs, and blocks for deeper and more easily accessible postures. Instructor: Rafael, CIYT

Wednesdays  ▶  6–7:30 p.m.  ▶   Register

Iyengar Yoga - Level 2

For continuing students who have attended Iyengar Level 1 for two or more years or those who have previous Iyengar experience. Instructor’s permission is required for new students. Instructor: Rafael, CIYT

Tuesdays  ▶  9:15–10:40 a.m.  ▶  Register 

Mondays  ▶  6–7:25 p.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