YMCA Active Together

Make friends, stay active, and find belonging.

YMCA Active Together is a new initiative with the goal of helping older adults stay active, connected, and engaged.

Our no-cost programs are designed through consultation with older adults, so we can offer activities that truly reflect the interest and needs of our community.

YMCA Active Together is open to everyone – you don’t have to be a YMCA member and there is no cost to participate!

There are two ways to participate:

Active Social Clubs

Take part in twice-monthly social gathering with free refreshments, conversation, guest speakers, field trips, and fun activities. Themes and topics will be guided by the Active Together Advisory Group, based on participant feedback.

Active Together: Self-Defence - Feel Safe Inside and Outside
Friday, November 20, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Lobby

Confidence starts with feeling safe! Join us for an informative and practical session where you'll learn simple self-defence techniques, personal safety tips, and ways to stay aware of your surroundings. Build confidence, learn useful skills, and discover how to feel safer both at home and when you're out and about.

Active Together: Healthy Bones
Monday, November 30, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Lobby

Learn how to keep your bones strong and healthy as you age. Discover the importance of movement, strength exercises, balance, and everyday habits that support bone health and help reduce the risk of falls. Enjoy a friendly conversation and pick up practical tips to support your long-term well-being.

Active Together: Muscle Mass and Strength Loss Prevention
Monday, December 14, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Lobby

Did you know that maintaining muscle strength is one of the keys to healthy aging? Learn why we naturally lose muscle mass as we get older, what we can do to slow this process, and how regular strength training, movement, and healthy lifestyle habits can help. Get practical ideas to stay stronger, more independent, and active at every age.

Active Together: Winter Holiday Party
Monday, December 21, 2026 | 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Lobby

Let's celebrate the season together! Join us for a cheerful holiday gathering filled with friendship, laughter, music, and festive spirit. Enjoy a chance to connect with friends, meet new people, and share the joy of the holiday season. Everyone is welcome!

Active Together: Move, Mingle & Explore – Outdoor Nature Walk
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 | Mer Bleue Bog Trail, Ottawa
Departure: 10:00 AM from YMCA Clarence-Rockland
Return: Approximately 1:15 PM (including lunch)

This outing will give participants the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, explore nature, stay active, and connect with others.

Round-trip transportation will be provided, and following the walk, participants will return to the YMCA for a light lunch and social gathering from 12:30 PM to 1:15 PM.

Active Together: Candlelit Tai Chi – Evening Wellness Session
Monday, November 23, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Conference Room

This special evening session will focus on gentle movement, balance, breathing, and relaxation in a peaceful candlelit atmosphere.

The goal is to create a calming and welcoming environment where participants can unwind, improve mobility, and connect with others. Flameless LED candles and soft lighting to create the ambiance while ensuring the space remains safe for movement.

Community Outreach

We’ll be delivering free YMCA recreation and wellness programs in seniors’ residences, community health centres, libraries, and other community spaces – reducing barriers and bringing programs closer to you.

Want to host YMCA Active Together programs at your location? Reach out to taggart.memberships@ymcaottawa.ca and/or cr.memberships@ymcaottawa.ca about partnership opportunities.