First chapter was as a crime-fighter, next will be fighting disease, disability

It’s a lucky person who gets to do even one thing in their professional life that is also a passion of theirs. And then there’s Tim Tougas-- who hasn’t even retired from his first love and he’s already carving out a spot for his next career. Tougas, a Lakes Area Police Investigator, is thrilled to have been in the right place at the right time allowing him to become part of the team at the new Lindstrom St. Croix Medical Center clinic’s fitness facility, on South Lindstrom Lake. He’s been doctoring at St. Croix Falls Medical Center for years, and was surprised to learn the organization planned a new clinic and wellness center in Lindstrom.

Then, one day he was talking with the St. Croix Medical Center CEO on a completely non-health related matter and the executive noticed Tougas had trimmed down, and was looking athletic. Tougas said he had finally decided to address his deteriorating health, his looming possiblity of diabetes and other issues. He first started working out at the St. Croix Falls sessions, and became focused on learning as much as he could. He crammed about eight months of personal trainer education into a about four months. Within just 18 months or so, he was becoming a changed person and was being offered a slot at the new medical center on the lake. Now he’s studying for a certification in senior fitness, which he says excites him because A: He is a walking talking example of regaining health later in life, and B. The Lindstrom clinic facility is beautifully equipped and perfectly situated to provide first rate workout sessions.

“Where else can you do kettle bells with a view like this,” Tougas remarked during a recent open house at the fitness center, its bank of windows overlooking South Lindstrom Lake. His fitness instructor schedule for now allows sessions during hours when he can be away from law enforcement. He’s wearing two hats and so far there haven’t been conflicts. Frank Johnson, a physical therapist and colleague of Tougas’ explained the fitness center is “Silver and Fit” certified, which means check with your insurance provider. It’s likely that up to 12 sessions of fitness classes each month will be paid for by your insurance provider. St. Croix staff will check for you if you are unsure of coverage.

Both Johnson and Tougas agree that healthcare is turning a corner and now the system provides much more in the way of illness and disease prevention. Tougas saw his blood pressure dip, his aches due to arthritis were reduced and his range of motion has expanded. Rather than take medication, he wants everybody to be able to tackle the causes not just the symptoms of their ailments. He is eager to share what this journey has taught him and he equally can’t wait to start you towards his one hour 650-calorie burn following his kettle bells routine.