How many children do you have and what are their ages?
I have three children Emilia age 9, Pamina age 7, and Theo age 3.
What brought you and your family to town?
We were drawn to New Cannan for its keen sense of community, great schools, and walkable downtown. All the things that make such a special place to raise a family. Between the friendly faces, outdoor spaces, and opportunities to get involved, New Canaan quickly became more than just our zip code, it became our village.
What’s your favorite aspect about being part of the community?
One of my favorite aspects of being part of the New Canaan Community is how genuinely supportive and connected everyone is, especially when it comes to families. Whether it is cheering each other on at youth sports, showing up for the school events, or participating in local causes, there is a powerful sense of togetherness here. I loved seeing how welcoming the community has been to things like our early morning NC Fit Community Boot Camp. People show up, push each other, and leave better than they came. It is a great reminder that health, family, and connection go hand in hand.
What’s your favorite family activity to do in the area?
One of our favorite family traditions is the 4th of July Fireworks at Waveney. There is something special about spreading out a blanket on the lawn, running into neighbors, and kickstarting the summer watching the sky light up together. It really feels like a classic New Canaan moment. We also love the Holiday Stroll downtown, to which our kids look forward to the lights, music, and especially getting their hands on a chocolate Waffle Cabin waffle! It is a wonderful way to kick off the holiday season as a community.
Tell us about your career. Where did your interest in fitness and wellness begin?
Being a Doctor of Physical Therapy, it is my duty to promote wellness and physical fitness daily to my patients and their family members. I am very passionate about preventing injuries and empowering people to reach their wellness potential, whether it be recovering from surgery, or just starting a general exercise program.
Can you tell us more about your path to opening The NC Fitness Boot Camp?
Built around getting the community of NC to move together safely and develop a healthy habit. As a physical therapist I have always believed in the power of exercise both physically and mentally rewarding. It started during the early mornings with a few friends who wanted to stay active. From there, it grew organically with neighbors, inviting neighbors, and suddenly we had a consistent group of motivated individuals showing up each week. That energy and commitment inspired me to create it into something bigger, an inclusive, fun, and grounded fitness class.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job as a Physical Therapist and exercise specialist, is helping people reclaim their independence and confidence through structured movement. Whether it is guiding someone back to walking after surgery or alleviating one’s chronic pain, the goal is for folks to enjoy their daily lives again. Being part of that journey is incredibly fulfilling. It is not just about rehab; it is about restoring hope, one step at a time.
Do you have advice for anyone looking to jump start their wellness journey?
Wellness is a term that can guide someone and experience healthy living in their own way. Whether you have just started your exercise journey, or just took a little break, it is important to get back into a healthy habit at your own pace. It is ok to explore and choose different exercise philosophies, but be sure to avoid feeling pressured exercising through pain. Ask your Primary Care Physician if there are any risks to your health to whichever. style of exercise you choose to participate in. Seek professional guidance from strength and conditioning coaches, personal trainers, or any allied healthcare professional such as a Physical Therapist, and tread cautiously when looking into a fitness influencer on social Media.
What’s the best advice you’ve gotten from another Dad?
“It is not about where you take them, or what toys you buy them, just being present and in the moment is something your kids will never forget.” Another dad shared this with me when I was trying to juggle work, family, and everything in between. It reminded me that our kids like to keep it simple. They just need us to show up, and be there. Whether it is reading a bedtime story, eating a meal together, or one more swing push at the Playground. Consistency and presence make the biggest impact in their lives.
How do you balance wellness and parenthood?
First and foremost, I have the greatest partner and teammate in the world, my wife Ashley, who without a doubt helps me balance all that comes with parenthood. Fitness is a part of our lifestyle, and as a Physical Therapist and dad of three, most of our family activities are circumvented around some form of movement. Sometimes my family and I all do a mini boot camp at home with my children creating the music playlist. Other times we head out for a family hike to one of our favorite hiking trails nearby. Most days we play soccer, shoot some hoops, and ride our bicycles in the backyard. On a few occasions, I will even take Theo with me on a run in the jogging stroller while Emilia and Pamina ride their bicycles. The furthest we have gone thus far is two miles!
Any words of wisdom?
Fight the temptation to be sedentary, Movement is medicine, but consistency is the prescription. As a Physical Therapist, I have seen firsthand how just 45 minutes a week can restore strength, reduce pain, and build resilience. The key? Get into the habit of showing up.
We love supporting local businesses. Favorite places in town (or near town) to…
Have dinner with/without kids: With Kids Chings Table, Without: Elm
Grab a drink with friends: South End or Uncorked
Have a date night: Tavern at GreyBarns
Spend time together as a family indoors/outdoors: Leon Levy Preserve: Purple Trail
Shop for yourself/shop for your kids: For self and For Kids: J Crew
Spa/salon (or anywhere you go to treat yourself): Mage Salon in Stamford
Grab coffee: Zumbach’s
Join Nicholas and other residents for NC Fit Community Boot Camp, a free weekly session every Friday at 5:45 AM at NCHS track. Winter Months, (November-May) the boot camp will be held indoors. Location TBD, but will be located within New Canaan. Click here to learn more.