Running

RECOMMENDED: Fitness guide to NYC

What: The New York Road Runners are a 50-year-old, 46,000-member club that runs (ha!) fitness classes, group jogs and more than 55 races a year, including the massive ING NYC Marathon. (Yeah, they're sort of a big deal.) You needn't be a member to take advantage of their best programs. When and where: Too much to list here, Wile E. Go to nyrr.org for details on the various events and classes. Sometimes I think running might be fun, and then I'm like, Fuck, I don't even want to walk up the stairs to my apartment. (I live on the second floor.) Running classes range in ability from sidewalk strollin' to Jackie Joyner Kersee--level, so you'll be placed with (non-)athletes in the same capability boat. "You can stay in the group where you are, or you can climb up the ladder," says president and CEO Mary Wittenberg. NYRR's other classes—including yoga, Pilates, stretching and swimming—can whip yo' butt into shape too. But even if I build stamina, I've still got no incentive. Sure you do, sloth. And "finding someone else to run with is a super way to really get yourself out the door on a regular basis," says Wittenberg. NYRR's Running Partners message board functions like Match.com for spandex junkies; or you can join the regular group runs in Central Park. I don't live anywhere near Central Park. Excuses, excuses. Smaller clubs meet throughout the New York area—check the NYRR site for a complete list. Or register for City Running Tours (877-415-0058, ), guided jogs of more than 20 routes (Broadway, Harlem and the LES included).