The YMCA Healthy Living Center brings adults together for connection, movement, and purpose through its Senior Memorial Marathon Walking Group. As the Official Training Partner for the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City offers a free 8-week training program for individuals age 60 and older, giving participants a meaningful way to take part in the race at their own pace.
For members like Catherine Li, the program has become both a healthy outlet and a way to build community. A recent retiree and new member of the YMCA Healthy Living Center, Catherine joined the walking group while looking for community after decades of teaching. She quickly found a welcoming group and signed up for the Senior Memorial Marathon, where she completed her first marathon alongside 74 new friends.
The walking group offers a supportive, all-levels environment where participants can log miles together while focusing on health, consistency, and shared interests and goals. Designed for active older adults who want a motivating and social wellness experience, the program emphasizes participation and connection over pace or performance.
“There are many reasons to participate in the Senior Marathon,” Marcia Noah, Program Director shared. “Becoming healthier is only one of them. Catherine will find 74 wonderful reasons to stay connected to her HLC community.”
Stories like Catherine’s highlight how the YMCA Healthy Living Center helps older adults stay active, build friendships, and discover new purpose through shared goals and meaningful connection.
Written by Corey Cargill, ccargill@ymcaokc.org
