Albert Lea Family YMCA and Blue Zones launch indoor walking moai to promote health, connection and longevity
City News January 7, 2026This winter, Blue Zones Albert Lea invites residents to experience a proven practice that makes healthy movement simple, social and sustainable. The Albert Lea Family YMCA and Blue Zones Albert Lea are partnering to offer a free indoor walking moai, which is a small, committed walking group designed to build lifelong habits through movement and connection.
Walking moais originated in Blue Zones regions of the world, such as Okinawa, Japan, where people live longer, healthier lives. Rather than focusing on intense workouts, moais emphasize consistent, low-stress movement combined with strong social bonds.
The indoor walking moai will take place at the Albert Lea Family Y from Jan. 12 through March 20, Monday through Friday, noon to 1 p.m. Participants may walk in the Y’s gym or indoor track at no charge. They may walk any or all week days throughout the winter. In other words, there is no commitment to specific days or all 10 weeks. What to expect:
- If not a member of the Y, participants must register at the front desk
- Participants are asked to complete a brief 6-question survey before and after their experience
- Fitness instructor Annie Olson will lead the group on Wednesdays
- Participants will receive incentives such T-shirts
This walking moai is part of the 10th anniversary of Albert Lea being certified as the first Blue Zones community in the nation in 2016, following a successful pilot project in 2009.
For more information, call the Family Y at 507-373- 8228.
