June28 Mike

With just a week to go in our four-week trial, designed to get a TG reader a bit fitter in an attempt to improve their golf, Mike Dodgson has taken his new-look body out onto the course.

The 38-year-old, who has lost nine pounds from his original weight of 18st 4lbs, went along with a mate to the Mere Golf Club in Cheshire to see how his improved physique stood up to the course.

And it’s good news. Mike fired an 88 at the Knutsford venue, three-under his handicap of 20. The man from Wigan was delighted with his low-scoring round and we caught up with him to see how he was feeling post round.

“It went very well,” said Mike. “I really felt the difference throughout the round. Instead of swinging hard at the ball and over-rotating, I really relaxed the swing and the results were great. The ball was going further and a lot straighter than before.

“I also wasn’t as tired after the round, so it really was a good day!”

Mike, who is in regular contact with Chris Ross, head strength and conditioning coach at the University of Birmingham, will have his final consultation in the Edgbaston facilities next Monday.

A final update on Mike’s progress will be posted here early next week, along with a new video to show just how productive the plan has been.

TELL US: What do you think of Mike’s efforts? Would you like to know more about how Chris tailored the program to fit around Mike’s work schedule? Add your comments below, or email your queries to staff writer jonathan.greathead@emap.com.