Kelowna YMCA bringing back specialized fitness program for adults 55+
Published 10:30 am Saturday, January 17, 2026
A fitness program tailored to the needs of adults aged 55 and older to help them create healthy routines and remain active is at the Kelowna Family YMCA.
Choose to Move is a free, three-month program that has made an impact in people’s lives, motivating them to reach their fitness goals.
“Through the program, a fitness coach worked with me to create a routine tailored to my goals and fitness level,” said former participant Jim Sivak, who added he had never set foot in a gym before the program. “Being part of a group with other people who had similar aspirations to incorporate more movement in our lives kept me motivated and on track as well. After completing the program, I became a YMCA member, and now I’m proud to say I go to the gym every other day.”
The program provides one-on-one sessions with a certified activity coach who will help create a personalized workout plan based on each individual’s needs and preferences.
Participants will join a group of peers for eight group meetings to share goals, maintain accountability, build connections and explore health and fitness topics together.
“Choose to Move is changing lives,” says Robyn Moore, vice-president of health fitness and aquatics at the YMCA of Southern Interior BC. “This free program gives older adults, whether they are 55 or 95, the tools they need to take charge of their well-being, physically and mentally.”
Those who decide to participate will receive free access to the YMCA for the program’s duration. The goal is that participants become full-time members after the program is complete.
The YMCA facilities offer a variety of amenities including unlimited access to group fitness classes, fitness centers, new EGYM smart fitness technology, swimming pools, drop-in sports, and spaces for social activities.
To learn more about the program, the YMCA is hosting an information session on Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Kelowna Family YMCA, located at 375 Hartman Road. Those interested can register for the upcoming information session by contacting Christine Zeindler at christine.zeindler@ymcasibc.ca or (250) 258-8556 ext. 224.
To qualify for the program, individuals must be inactive (achieving less than 150 minutes of moderate-vigorous physical activity per week), not be a current YMCA member, and looking to add more regular exercise into their lives.
