With the start of golf season looming, local business owner Bill Craig knew he needed to shed a few pounds to make it around all 18 holes. Not a novice to exercising, personal training and dieting, Bill, who spends most days at Craig's Fine Jewelry, his family-owned business in Ridgefield for over 60 years, knew he needed a new plan and new motivation to get his weight loss jump started.

Enter Monica Nowak, one of the gym's Certified Personal Trainers and Functional Movement Specialist. In March, Bill began a new program with her; and now, 5 months later, he is still going strong and enjoying the benefits.

Reluctant at first, he had previously worked with other trainers and nutritionists; Bill knew he needed something new to be able walk all 18 holes this golf season. So he went to the sessions and listened to Monica's advice.

As all personal trainers at the gym do, Monica first screened and interviewed Bill, "to see where he was at a physical level and what his goals were." Being "deconditioned," over-weight and having knee issues, Monica began with a corrective exercise strategy to improve his physical limitations and imbalances. Now, according to Monica, "we are working towards achieving long term weight loss and improving his golf game through better mobility, stability and power generation. His strength and conditioning training program aims, not only at making him sweat, but at being better, faster and stronger, like a ninja!" For the first time in many years, Bill can touch his toes and do 15 real push-ups in a row!

She also suggested he develop better food habits, lower his carbohydrate intake (bacon and cheese are still in his diet), and visit the gym on his own another two or three days a week.

Monica sees him growing stronger, both physically and mentally, each week. "He's always been a happy person, but now he enjoys the gym and has developed a need for exercise because he feels so good," exclaims Monica. For a personal trainer, that is a success story.

And for Bill, the dedication has paid off too. His handicap has gone down 4 strokes and his waistline has shrunk four inches. Now with a 6-handicap and pants two-sizes smaller, there is a lilt in his step as he birdies a hole and walks to the next tee. Mentally, he feels more alert, spontaneous and energized too. "I gave you a fun title for the article, didn't I?" teases Bill.

*photo by Laura Weaver

the gym is located at 66 Grove Street in Ridgefield. They also have a location in Southbury, CT

the gym will offer a free training session when you mention the HamletHub before August 27th