MEMBER OF THE MONTH – JAMES LAIRD

James has been a member of The Chatham Club for 24 years and uses the club typically 3-6 days a week. His consistency and dedication to his workouts have helped him see continued success at squash, golf, and staying strong during his long hours on his feet at work as a chef. James strongly believes in the idea of balance of training. Use your time to focus on strength, speed, power, balance, core, and consistency to meet your goals!

What success/progress have you seen during your time at the club?
When I first joined, I used fitness training to become stronger and faster at squash. I was new to the game, and my fitness level allowed me to become a strong player over time. As I switched my interest to golf, I focused more on movements and strength to allow for better posture and movement patterns to improve my game. The strength and posture exercises also helped keep me pain-free while cooking all day and being on my feet 10+ hours a shift.

What do you like most about the club?
I like the Personal Trainers and staff, and I love the cleanliness and versatility of the equipment.

What do you like most about Personal Training?
I do Personal Training 3 times a week, and my trainer Tim and others keep it interesting. It’s the time during the week that I don’t have to think and let someone else guide me for the hour. I love that they just give me direction, and I like to listen and learn.

What are some of your favorite exercises?
I love the traditional moves or sumo squats and deadlifts. I love anything that works my quads, hamstrings, and glutes, and I don’t want to get that “man butt.” I also enjoy exercises focusing on improving my golf game and protecting my shoulders.

What are some of your least favorite exercises?
Wall sits, Burpees, Battle Ropes, Sprints, and shuttle runs. They are all great for me, but I definitely enjoy them the least.

What are some things you enjoy doing outside of the club?
I like to spend time golfing, fly fishing, taking walks, hitting the beach, and gardening. I also want to take time away from my restaurant, Serenade, and eat at other restaurants.

Any new goals?
I want to focus my winter training on creating more golf swing speed. More speed and power.