If you're looking for a fun way to simultaneously work out and help out, check out Achilles Track Club in Central Park!

Created as an effort to allow people with disabilities to participate in numerous athletic events, Achilles is a worldwide organization that welcomes any and all members and volunteers who wish to join.

Every Saturday, the club meets around 10 am at the East 90th Street Central Park entrance. Members and volunteers are paired up depending on whether they'd like to walk, run, or hand cycle, and the work out begins. Whether they are out there for fun, or training for the New York City Marathon, the spirits are high, camaraderie is strong, and training is real. Each member agrees that one of the best things about Achilles is the positive attitude that it draws to the track. Participation is voluntary and the lack of rigid scheduling creates a low key 'just for fun' vibe that everyone is able to benefit from.

Volunteers like 18-year-old Lacey Gleason, who ran cross-country in high school, find this to be a perfect way to apply one of her passions to doing something nice for members in the community who may need a helping hand. Several volunteers work with the same members each week in order to keep track of their development and specific areas of interest.

And while fun is the focus, this does not mean the club ignores the chance for a good competition...it's not all about winning, but if it's possible, why not attempt to come in first place?

-Ashley Johncola