Adult Programs

                               

 

The Merriam Parks and Recreation Department has something for everyone. Explore this section and enroll in one of our adult programs or classes. All classes are held at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater Street, unless noted otherwise.

Fit Class Pass - Member Add-On  Fit Class Pass Logo

Take a different class every day!

For an additional $25 per month, members can attend select classes! Try all the classes, and go as many times as you like. Classes included in the pass are noted in the selections below.  Add the Fit Class Pass to your membership at the Welcome Desk.  ($25/individual member per month)

 

Dance Fitness

Kindle Your Fire with Kerri  Fit Class Pass Logo

This dance class will get your heart pumping with simple and fun steps, plus awesome music and themed classes! Keep your pajamas on because this class is virtual! Must have a Fit Class Pass. A weekly link will be sent to your email on file. Starts in January.  Instructor: Kerri

 

WERQ  Fit Class Pass Logo

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.

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

Day Trips

Explore Truman Library and Hallmark Visitors Center

Join us for an adventure exploring Truman Libary and the Hallmark Visitors Center. The day includes two guides at both events, lunch snacks, and drinks. Register by March 1 for a $5 discount. Led by Just One Day ToursJust One Day Tour Company Logo

Friday, March 24   ▶  8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.  ▶   Register

 

Topeka State Capital and Mulvane Museum Tour

Take a guided tour of the Topeka State Capitol, followed by a trip to the best-kept secret in Topeka, the Mulvane Art Museum. The art museum opened in 1924 and is the oldest accredited art museum west of the Mississippi River. The museum's collection highlights the works by artists from Kansas and the Midwest. Lunch, snacks, and water are included. Lead by Just one Day Tours Just One Day Tour Company Logo

Friday, April 28   ▶  8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.   ▶   Register

Fitness Classes

Barbell Burn   Fit Class Pass Logo

This class takes barbell exercises traditionally done in the weight room and switches them up using music.  This style of training focuses on endurance while working all major muscle groups to achieve lean muscle mass with cardiovascular benefits.  Great for all skill levels, from beginners to athletes.  Instructor:Caitlin

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶   6 - 7 a.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   Fit Class Pass Logo

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  Fit Class Pass Logo

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!

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays   ▶  12-12:45 p.m.   ▶   Register

 

Fit Camp  Fit Class Pass Logo

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  Fit Class Pass Logo

Kettlebell AMPD combines 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  Fit Class Pass Logo

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

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

Shape Up  Fit Class Pass Logo

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

Mondays and Wednesdays  ▶   4-4:50 p.m.   ▶   Register

Martial Arts

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

Personal Training, Evaluations, Orientations

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 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  Preregister by email

Pickleball

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:Anna

Wednesdays  ▶ 11 a.m. - Noon ▶ Register 

Swim Lessons

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.

 

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.

Call 913-322-5550 for more information. 

Water Fitness

Aqua Flow - a Taijifit experience  Fit Class Pass Logo

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  ▶ 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  ▶ March 7-30 ▶  12-12:40 p.m  ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶ April 4-27  ▶  12-12:40 p.m  ▶   Register

Cardio Splash  Fit Class Pass Logo

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

This 20-minute therapy session helps relieve pain and activate muscle groups to improve mobility and stability. Instructor: Phyllis

Mondays   ▶  1-1:20 p.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 therapy pool. Instructor: Bennie

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

 

Water Aerobics Fit Class Pass Logo

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  Fit Class Pass Logo

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

Mondays   ▶ 12 - 12:45 p.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 therapy pool. Instructor: Bennie

Wednesdays  ▶ 12-1 p.m.   ▶   Register

Workshops

TRX Clinics

Learn how to use the TRX strap to use gravity against your body weight to progress strength, balance, flexibility, and core stability! Join us the second Saturday, January through April to learn how to add new exercises into your fitness routine! You must preregister by the Wednesday before each clinic. Instructor: Cecilia

Saturday  ▶ April 8 ▶  9-9:30 a.m  ▶   Register

Spring Planter DIY: Planting Party and Wine

Join us for a fun evening of crafting and wine as we make planters to prepare you for spring! Using decoupage, we'll decorate spring pots and endterracotta pots in decoupage with a planting party. We'll also give tips about your plants. All supplies and wine or soft drinks included. Instructor: Ingrid and Emily

Friday  ▶ March 24 ▶  6:30-8 p.m  ▶   Register

Hanging Flower Basket Workshop

Merriam's lucky to have beautiful hanging flower baskets along its streets. Now, everyone has the opportunity to make their yard pretty by Hanging flower baskets with petunias Downtown Merriam assembling a smaller version of the basket. All necessary supplies and instructor are provided. Results may vary depending on weather conditions and care. Register early-spots are limited. Program is held at Merriam Public Works, 6901 Knox St. Instructors: Merriam Public Works Employees

Saturday  ▶ April 15 ▶  8-9 a.m  ▶   Register  Registration if full.  Future registrations will be added to a waitlist.

What's Cluckin' in the Hen House

Learn about chicken behavior traits, feeding guidelines, local ordinance, coop maintenance and space, health issues for your girls, and more. We'll even taste test grocery store eggs versus homegrown. Those under age 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Program is held at Merriam Marketplace, 5740 Merriam Drive Instructor: Minnie

Saturday  ▶ April 15 ▶  9-11 a.m  ▶   Register

Yoga Classes

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   

Yin Yoga  Fit Class Pass Logo  

  This slower-paced, meditative yoga holds poses for long periods to target ligaments, joints, and bones and promote cleansing. The class increases flexibility and mobility, reduces stress and anxiety, and opens the facia for better circulation. Instructor: Portia

Saturdays  ▶   8:15-9:30 a.m  ▶   Register

Mondays  ▶   4:45-5:45 p.m  ▶   Register