I'm seventy-two years old, and I'm in the best shape of my life. Most importantly, this gym is a place that I enjoy coming to. Ron, Vinny, and Frank have created a comfortable environment that is serious, but collegial and non-threatening. Like many people my age and in my physical condition, I’ve started many regimens and stopped out of boredom, intimidation or apathy. I always feel welcome at this gym and this is because these guys act like great hosts: they make the effort to introduce all members to each other and make you feel good about being there. Most miraculously, I find myself going there when I have time on my hands to do unscheduled cardio routines and exercise. The key here is I keep coming back for more. Dear CPTWC, Ron Cook has been my personal trainer for more than four years. He came highly recommended by two friends of mine who continue to work out with him. Chronic pain and the desire to manage weight and physical strength brought me to his door. His ability to pay attention to my goals and analyze my body’s needs has earned him my devotion and respect. I was successful eased into a training routine that has been challenging and satisfying. Ron has the natural physical talent of a born jock and the smarts of a trained physical therapist. True story: after a few months of whining over a particular exercise called “functional squats” (demanding and, well, one of my least favorite positions) I got out of my car after a long trip and realized that for the first time in years, I had no pain. I pulled out my cell phone and called to tell him that I would no longer complain about the functional squat. Dear CPTWC, I take some credit for this, but mostly, I owe it to Ron Cook, who has been my trainer for the last four years. I came to him because I began to have injuries from working out on my own - which I have done most of my adult life. I work out with Ron for an hour three times a week. He watches me vigilantly, instructs me, regulates the weights, and corrects my form. The result is that I fee much better and have a better body then I ever did before and I have had no injuries. Ron Cook is smart and educated. He knows the human body. He has excellent judgment. His training is individualized and flexible. He knows his clients well and remembers the details. He is positive and encouraging but also is aware of people's limits. He makes working out therapeutic physically and mentally. He is easy to be with. And he obviously cares. I enjoy staying in shape as I get older, and I like feeling safe while I do that. Everyone should have the opportunity to work with Ron Cook. Dr. Alan Lovins, Whitney Avenue / New Haven, CT 06511 KJ Ayvazian