The Central Park Reservoir

Everyone around me seems prematurely ready for spring; they are booking vacations to destinations south the equator, the stores are already carrying shorts and bathing suits, but unfortunately New York's winter keeps holding on - the high today is only 25!!!  However, that does not mean we can't look forward to the exciting things to come once the weather thaws a little and for me, warm weather in New York means spending time in Central Park.

Although I could probably devote this entire blog to things to do in Central Park, today I will focus on the the Park's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir.  Built between 1858 and 1862, the Reservoir was designed to collect water from the Croton Aqueduct and serve as a temporary water supply for NYC (it is 40 feet deep, holds a billion gallons of water and covers 106 acres).  In 1993, it was deemed obsolete after 131 years of service and renamed in honor of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1994 because she enjoyed jogging around it - which is what I (and apparently Bill Clinton and Madonna) love do do too!

The Reservoir is surrounded by a 1.58 mile jogging path, which has so much inspiring scenery to observe you will forget you are even running (you can also walk around it, making it the perfect place for a romantic stroll at sunset).  During the spring, the experience is enhanced by the blooming varieties of pink cherry trees, followed by rhododendron blossoms.  Also, many species of birds call the Reservoir home, so it is a prime location for bird watching.
 
As soon as the air feels warm enough, run over to the Reservoir and transport yourself to this nature sanctuary inside of Central Park, but make sure to look up at the buildings peaking out over the trees, reminding you that you are still in New York.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir (map)

Stretch Out and Destress

For many people, it can be really hard to get into exercising - even scary and intimidating if you have not done anything in a long time.  Although I am a gym regular, I generally stick to my standard old treadmill and weights, which at times can get pretty boring, especially when it is too cold to do anything outside.

A few months ago I decided I needed to get the courage to add some variety to my daily routine and seek out alternatives.  After some exploration and searching for some deals, my friend Ariel and I settled on Sixth Street Pilates (Lifebooker had a five classes for $25 deal at the time) in the East Village.  I was definitely nervous when I headed over for the first class but that all changed immediately after arriving at the studio - basically a ground-level apartment with two rooms separated by French doors.  The back room houses the apparatuses and the group classes are held in the front room.  I have taken group classes (which have ranged from 4 to 15 people) with Anula, Jeremy and Eleanor, all of which have very different yet effective styles, and are all extremely supportive of, and attentive to each individual student.

The students are very eclectic and you really feel like you are exercising with your friends in one of their living rooms (after class everyone pitches in cleaning the mats and putting away the equipment).  Each time I leave Sixth Street Pilates I feel refreshed and relaxed, and eager to take on my day.

Does anyone have other suggestions for fun exercise alternatives in New York?

Sixth Street Pilates
525 E 6th Street (map)
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