Chances are, you know about Lakeshore Foundation for its sports programs for the disabled. After all, much of the critically acclaimed movie "Murderball," about the 2004 U.S. Paralympic quadriplegic wheelchair rugby team, was shot at Lakeshore's renowned facilities. The U.S. Olympic Committee chose Lakeshore as the first combined training site for Olympic and Paralympic sports. What you may not know is that the non-profit organization offers exercise and recreational opportunities for people with a wide variety of disabilities and chronic conditions. One of the most comprehensive fitness facilities for the disabled in the country, Lakeshore can benefit patients with severe arthritis, chronic back pain, diabetes, cardiac conditions, spinal cord injury, stroke, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, amputation, MS, MD, visual impairment, Parkinson's Disease, cancer, fibromyalgia and more. Lakeshore also serves all individuals age 60 and over, whether or not they have a qualifying physical condition, to try to prevent the onset of permanent disabilities. "I think many physicians think that it's just for people in wheelchairs or competitive athletics, which are a very visible part of the program," says Susan Katz, communications coordinator. Lakeshore Foundation is not a rehabilitation or healthcare facility; it's more like a highly specialized fitness club or gym. In fact, potential members cannot be involved in active rehabilitation. But Lakeshore Foundation is a great place for patients to go once they've finished rehab programs. In addition to competitive sports for the disabled, Lakeshore Foundation offers general fitness and recreational programs. For instance, there are more than 40 aquatic classes offered each week in the center's warm pool, with diagnostic-specific programs for conditions such as arthritis, back pain, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia and Parkinson's Disease, as well as learn-to-swim classes and cardio aqua aerobics. There are also land-based individual and group exercise plans, including walking programs, yoga, step aerobics, and special programs for people with arthritis. Like other gyms, there are free weights, strength training and cardio machines. Recreational programs include handcycling, shooting sports, water skiing, boccia, golf and more. And, of course, there are the competitive athletic programs for youth and adults. In addition to wheelchair rugby, patients can compete in sports such as tennis, swimming, basketball, power soccer, marksmanship, boccia, powerlifting, and track and field. Lakeshore Foundation also encourages family members to join (those living in the same household), so the family can be active together. Members don't need a prescription to join, but physicians, physical therapists and other healthcare professionals are encouraged to tell patients about Lakeshore Foundation. "We want to make sure healthcare professionals know we have an exceptional physical fitness program for people who need to move more and be active," Katz says.