50+ Programs

Keep your mind sharp and your body active at the Merriam Community Center! 

The MCC is committed to enriching the lives of individuals aged 50 and beyond. We offer many activities to meet your interests and well-being. Join us for a spirited game of bingo, a friendly pickleball match, or a Wednesday movie matinee. 

For those looking to stay active, our invigorating water fitness classes offer a refreshing way to exercise and stay fit, all while being easy on the joints. And because learning is a lifelong journey, our educational workshops cover a wide spectrum of topics, providing you with opportunities to expand your knowledge. 

Explore the options below, find even more options on the Adult Programs page, and enroll today. 

Senior Fit Class Pass Scholarship

This scholarship is for patrons 60 and older who have a membership to the MCC and want to get a Fit Class PassLearn More

Classes and Programs 

All classes are held at the Merriam Community Center, 6040 Slater Street, unless noted otherwise.     

Fitness Classes

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   ▶   9:30-10:30 a.m. 

Cardio Chair Drumming Fit Class Pass Logo

This full-body workout is done seated in a chair while drumming on a large stability ball or the floor. We provide everything you need. All abilities are welcome; we don't go down to the floor. Instructor: Lisa

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶   April   ▶  8-8:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶   May-August  ▶  8-8:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

 

Forever Fit  Fit Class Pass Logo

Helps seniors increase cardiovascular, endurance, strength, and improre mobility. Instructor: Abby

Tuesdays   ▶   April   ▶  3-4:15 p.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays   ▶   May-August  ▶  3:30-4:15 p.m.  ▶   Register

 

Senior Strength Fit Class Pass Logo

This senior strength class is specifically designed to cater to the fitness needs and abilities of older adults, typically aged 50 and above. The primary focus of this class is to improve and maintain overall strength, flexibility, balance, and functional mobility. Instructor: Chloe

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶   April  ▶  9-9:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶   May-August  ▶  9-9:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

 

SilverSneakers® Classic

This class features both seated and standing exercises designed to enhance muscular strength, improve range of motion, and support daily living activities. It's ideal for beginners and those with limitations. This versatile class is exclusive for SilverSneakers® members and is tailored to accommodate all fitness levels. Instructor: Chloe

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶   May-August  ▶  8-8:50 a.m.   ▶   FREE for SilverSneakers®  members

 

Tap Class Fit Class Pass Logo

Enjoy a variety of music while you tap your troubles away! Class begins with simple technique exercises, working your body and your brain. From there, we'll learn rhythms and a combination of tap steps to favorite Broadway tunes and other music types. Bring your tap shoes. Instructor: Treva

Mondays   ▶   April  ▶  10-10:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

Mondays   ▶   May-August  ▶  10-10:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

Personal Training, Evaluations, Orientations

CERTIFIED PERSONAL TRAINERS

More Information

caitlin brisendine

Caitlin is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Nutrition Counselor, Zumba Instructor, and trained in Mental Toughness - bringing a well-rounded, dynamic approach to health and fitness. With years of personal and professional experience, she has experience working with a variety of fitness levels, tailoring sessions to meet unique goals. She combines a variety of equipment, training styles and motivational techniques to keep workouts fresh, effective and fun. Fitness is a journey - one that should challenge you and keep you engaged.

Anthony gower

After a 10-year fitness journey, Anthony knows the process of weight loss, muscle growth, strength, agility, and body recomposition wile maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

angela harrell

Angela has a bachelor's degree in athletic training and an associates as a Physical Therapist Assistant. Angela holds certifications with the Aquatic Therapy and Rehab Institute and the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program coupled with over 12 years of clinical experience and four years focused on Aquatic Therapy provides the experience to work with clients of all ages and fitness levels. Utilizing water for a low-impact yet highly effective way to build strength, balance and endurance to align with personal goals.

Chloe holmes

Chloe focuses on integrating cardiovascular health with strength training and functional fitness to create well-rounded programs that enhance overall performance. 

Abby Madsen

Abby is a certified personal trainer through the International Sports Sciences Association. Abby was a college athlete. She wants to use her knowledge to teach people about the importance of health and wellness. Abby wants to motivate her clients to reach their fitness goals and achieve a higher quality of life. 

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.

chris thomas

Chris is a passionate group fitness instructor with five years of experience in personal training, both in-person and online. He works with all ages and skill levels, specializing in mobility for seniors and speed training for athletes with a focus on technique, strength, endurance and overall wellness.

Jessica Tollie

Jessica is National Academy of Sports Medicine corrective exercise specialist and certified trainer. She wants to help people reach their goals and improve the quality of their daily lives through education and functional movement exercises.

 

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 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

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 Kickstart

Whether you're new to the sport or looking to enhance your skills , this clinic introduces you to pickleball fundamentals and provide a solid foundation for your game. Join us for the entire clinic or for a few weeks. All skill levels are welcome! Instructor: Geoff

Mondays  ▶ August 3-31 ▶ 6-7 p.m.  ▶   $50   Register

Intermediate Pickleball

This class is perfect for players at the intermediate level (2.5-3.5) who want to refine their technique and boost performance. We'll cover essential skills such as dinking, transitioning, volleys, offensive shots, lobs, lob returns, as well as serving and return of serve. Instructor: Geoff. 

Tuesdays   May 5-26  ▶ 8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶   $40  ▶ Register

Tuesdays   August 11-September 1 ▶ 8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶   $40  ▶ Register

Social Activities

Bingo

Let's all shout "BINGO!" Join us each month for a fun-filled afternoon! Snacks are provided. Prizes include gift cards and consumables. Thanks to our sponsors: Askins Insurance, Merriam Gardens and Healthcare, and Johnson County Funeral. 

Second Thursdays   ▶ 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.  ▶  $5 collected day of event

April 9: Hoppin' Into Bingo

May 14:Spring Bloom

July 9:Red, White, & Bingo

August 13:Summer Breeze

Slice of Summer 

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

Thursday, June 11   ▶  12:30-3:30 p.m.  ▶  $7  ▶  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.

Current Movie List(PDF, 543KB)

Silver Spades Card Game

Join your peers for a morning of fun while playing a competitive card game of Spades! The goal is simple: win as many tricks as you can in this classic card game played with a trump suit. Refreshments provided. Instructor: Margo

Fridays  ▶ 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.  ▶  $1 collected day of event

 

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 at the welcome desk. Bring a tasty dish to share! Instructor: Logan & Chloe

Friday, July 10  ▶  12-1 p.m.  ▶  $5 + a tasty dish to share ▶  Register at the Welcome Desk

 

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. Join the mailing list by completing this form

Swim Lessons

Private and Semi-Private Lessons

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

$100 for private lessons, $90 for semi-private.

More information 

Walking Program

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 

Water Fitness

AquaFit   Fit Class Pass Logo

This intermediate-level, low-impact aqua class combines cardio intervals and strength training, with water resistance recommended by doctors for optimal results. Instructor: Carey

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  April  ▶  9-9:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  May-August  ▶  9-9:50 a.m.   ▶   Register

 

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:Lisa

Mondays & Wednesdays   ▶  April  ▶  9:50-10:40 a.m.   ▶   Register

Mondays & Wednesdays  ▶  May-August  ▶  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  ▶ April  ▶  6-7 p.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays  ▶  May-August  ▶  6-7 p.m.   ▶   Register

Cardio Splash  Fit Class Pass Logo

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

Monday & Wednesdays   ▶  April  ▶  9-9:50 a.m.  ▶   Register

Monday & Wednesdays   ▶ May-August   ▶  9-9:50 a.m.  ▶   Register

KU Sensory Enhanced Aquatics 

This program provides swim lessons for adults with autism spectrum disorders. Individual and small-group lessons are available to meet learning needs. Instructors combine traditional learn-to-swim methods with sensory strategies and evidence-based instructional methods matched to the unique needs of each child. With support from donors and the successful collaboration with Merriam Parks and Recreation to host an annual Swim-a-thon fundraiser, Sensory Enhanced Aquatics can provide scholarships to swimmers needing financial support. Anyone interested in information regarding scholarships can reach out directly to Kayla Hammer. Instructor: The University of Kansas Medical Center Department of Occupational Therapy Education Faculty & Staff.

Wednesdays   ▶ 6:30-7:15 p.m.   ▶   Register May 8 at 6 p.m.

Wednesdays   ▶ 7:20-8:05 p.m.   ▶   Register May 8 at 6 p.m.

Workshops

Beginner Pickleball Kickstart

Whether you're new to the sport or looking to enhance your skills , this clinic introduces you to pickleball fundamentals and provide a solid foundation for your game. Join us for the entire clinic or for a few weeks. All skill levels are welcome! Instructor: Geoff

Mondays  ▶ August 3-31 ▶ 6-7 p.m.  ▶   $50   Register

 

 Intermediate Pickleball

This class is perfect for players at the intermediate level (2.5-3.5) who want to refine their technique and boost performance. We'll cover essential skills such as dinking, transitioning, volleys, offensive shots, lobs, lob returns, as well as serving and return of serve. Instructor: Geoff. 

Tuesdays   May 5-26  ▶ 8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶   $40  ▶ Register

Tuesdays   August 11-September 1 ▶ 8:30-9:30 a.m.  ▶   $40  ▶ Register

American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric CPR/AED Certification

This course covers adult, child, and infant CPR and emergency response skills. Learn from expert instructors and gain hands-on practice. Upon completion, you'll earn a two-year American Red Cross Certification.  Instructor: MCC Staff

Saturday   June 20 ▶  9 a.m.-3 p.m.  ▶   $100  ▶ Register by June 13

Saturday   July 18 ▶  9 a.m.-3 p.m.  ▶   $100  ▶ Register by July 11

Lunch & Learn - Summertime Fun

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 at the Welcome Desk. Bring a tasty dish to share! Instructor: Logan & Chloe

Friday   July 10  ▶ Noon-1 p.m.   ▶   $5 + a tasty dish to share ▶ MCC Welcome Desk

Yoga

Chair Yoga  Fit Class Pass Logo

Enjoy a gentle chair yoga session that builds core strength and flexibility through seated and supported standing poses, promoting balance and calm. Restorative breathing encourages mindfulness and eases stress. Ideal for seniors, those with limited mobility or recovering from injury, or anyone seeking a low-impact way to move. Instructor: Diann

Fridays  ▶  May-August  ▶  9-9:45 a.m.  ▶ Register

 

Gentle Yoga   Fit Class Pass Logo

This slow, meditative yoga is a gentle stretches the body to improve flexibility and mobility while reducing stress and tension. Held outdoors, weather permitting. Instructor: Portia

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

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

Healing Flow  Fit Class Pass Logo

Breathe, move, and heal in this gentle yoga and meditation class combining mindful movement, breathwork, and soothing soundscapes. Designed for all levels, it supports stress relief, emotional release, and inner balance through a deeply calming, healing experience. Instructor: Jeanette

Wednesdays ▶  April  ▶  5:30-6:15 p.m.   ▶   Register

Wednesdays  ▶  May-August  ▶  5:30-6:15 p.m.  ▶   Register

 

Strengthen, Stretch, & Breathe Fit Class Pass Logo

This class is designed to strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and incorporate breathwork to leave you feeling relaxed and energized. Instructor: Carey

Tuesdays & Thursdays ▶  April  ▶  8-8:45 a.m.   ▶   Register

Tuesdays & Thursdays ▶  May-August  ▶  8-8:45 a.m.  ▶   Register