Miyagi Coop x Replus Launch "Kenko! Rakuraku Fitness" Program for 2026, Recruiting Local Residents to Support Community Health

General Incorporated Association Replus (Ishinomaki City, Miyagi Prefecture, Representative Director: Daigo Hashimoto), in collaboration with Miyagi Consumers' Co-operative (Headquarters: Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, Representative Director & President: Katsuhito Fuyuki), will begin its 2026 health class program, "Kenko! Rakuraku Fitness," co-created with professionals, starting May 7th (Thursday) at two stores: Niji no Oka and Ohtomi.

This initiative aims not just for professionals to "teach," but for local residents themselves to become leaders in their own health promotion. The cumulative number of participants in the supporter training course has reached 99, and the circle of self-reliance and mutual support is gradually expanding.

Background: Nurturing a "Circle of Health Promotion" Among Neighbors with 99 Graduates

In today's aging society, there is a growing demand for mechanisms and opportunities for continuous health promotion within daily life, beyond government-led initiatives. Replus and Miyagi Coop have created "places to visit" where residents can naturally encourage each other and make exercise a habit, using "familiar stores" as bases, accessible during grocery shopping. Medical and rehabilitation professionals (physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses) provide ongoing support.

To date, 99 residents have completed the training course. Their engagement varies, from those who actively invite friends to those who primarily apply their knowledge to maintaining their own health. However, the accumulation of each individual's sincere commitment to "caring for their own health and that of their close companions" forms a solid force supporting a healthy local community.

Three Features of "Kenko! Rakuraku Fitness"

① Professional Consultations During Your "Shopping Trip"

Professionals such as physical therapists, occupational therapists, and nurses are stationed on-site. It functions as an "everyday infirmary" where individuals with concerns about their knees or back can casually consult about their body's habits and discomforts while doing their shopping.

② Fitness That Continues Effortlessly

Tangible results directly impacting quality of life have been achieved, such as "My leg cramps at night have stopped (60s female)" and "My legs lift better when walking (50s female)."

③ Free Participation & Community Formation

Utilizing "Minna no Space" (Everyone's Space), participants engage with laughter alongside peers of the same generation, which helps prevent isolation and promotes both physical and mental well-being.

Event Outline

Start Date: Every Thursday from May 7th, 2026

Location & Time:

Miyagi Coop Niji no Oka Store: 10:00–11:30 (Capacity: 15 people) Miyagi Coop Ohtomi Store: 14:00–15:30 (Capacity: 15 people)

Participation Fee: Free

Target Audience: Those who wish to maintain their current physical fitness, those who want to make friends in the community (visits for observation are also welcome).

Comment from Representative Director Daigo Hashimoto

"As many as 99 individuals have stepped forward, transitioning from learners to supporters. In 2026, we aim to expand this circle further and transform supermarkets, places of everyday life, into hubs for a 'city where you can walk forever.'"

[Image of people doing exercises] [Image of people stretching]

【Contact Regarding This Matter】 General Incorporated Association Replus (Contact: Hashimoto) Email: daigo.hashimoto@link-replus.com URL: https://replus.mystrikingly.com/

【Inquiries Regarding Application & Participation】 Miyagi Consumers' Co-operative, Life Culture Department, Community Activity Promotion Section TEL: 022-218-3880 (9:30–18:00, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)