City Expands Access to Fitness and Health Programs

Published on May 30, 2025

YMCA partnership offers free and low-cost wellness classes

The Parks and Recreation Department and YMCA of Lincoln today announced a new partnership to offer free and low-cost fitness and health classes at two City community and recreation centers. Made possible in part through a grant from the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation, this initiative is designed to strengthen wellness access for neighborhoods with limited options, especially for older adults.

“This effort supports our shared goals of helping residents stay healthy, connected, and active,” said Maggie Stuckey-Ross, Director of Lincoln Parks and Recreation. “By working together, we can reach more people and make wellness more accessible for everyone.”

Programs will be designed to meet the needs and interests of the community, with fees going directly toward delivery and support.

Fit for Life Strength and Stretch is the first in this series of wellness classes. This introductory class uses both land and chair-based movements to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and mobility for daily living. It is designed to be low impact and accessible for participants of all ages and abilities.

The six-week session includes 12 classes and costs $12 for community members. YMCA of Lincoln members may attend at no cost. Financial assistance and a free trial are available for new participants. Registration is required and can be completed at ymcalincoln.org/HLO or in person at the center during class.

The class is offered at two locations with the following schedules:

Air Park Community Center, 4900 Mike Scholl St., 402-441-7876

  • Free trial classes: 10 to 10:45 a.m. June 3, 5, 10, and 12
  • Session classes: 10 to 10:45 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 17 through July 24 

Easterday Recreation Center, 6130 Adams Street, 402-441-7901

  • Free trial classes: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. June 2, 4, 9, and 11
  • Session classes: 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, June 16 through July 23

“This partnership reflects the power of coming together to meet people where they are,” said Renee Yost, YMCA of Lincoln President and CEO. “We’re creating spaces where individuals of all ages can connect, thrive, and belong – because health isn’t one size fits all.”

For more information or to register for upcoming programs, visit ymcalincoln.org/HLO.

Tagged as:
Back to top