August Athlete of the Month - Maureen Hassett

In the heart of a bustling life, filled with work, family, and the joys of a 2.5-year-old grandson, Maureen’s journey toward health and fitness stands as an inspiring testament to perseverance and positive change.​ Her story, marked by consistent effort and a commitment to personal growth, showcases how small, incremental steps can lead to remarkable transformations.
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Since embarking on her health and fitness journey, Maureen has made significant strides in various aspects of her life. A key achievement has been her commitment to consistent weekly attendance at the gym, alongside engaging in other fun physical activities such as biking, skiing, and "running" with their energetic grandson, whose motto is, "Why walk when you can run?" This lively approach to life has become a central theme in her journey, symbolizing a zest for movement and activity.
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But the journey is far from over. Maureen continues to work on refining her exercise technique in the gym, focusing on slowing down to ensure proper form and prevent injuries. With the guidance and encouragement of Wilcox's coaches, she is learning to balance pushing her limits with knowing when to ease off, all while striving to maintain a well-balanced and healthy diet.

​Among Maureen’s favorite exercises, squats, jumping, bungee skier rows, which remind her of her joy of actual skiing, and bosu ball balancing stand out. These activities not only challenge the body but also bring a sense of joy and accomplishment. On the other hand, exercises like ropes and the plank reptile have proven more challenging. However, even these less favored exercises are met with determination and a commitment to improvement, demonstrating their resilience and growth mindset.
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Perhaps Maureen’s most significant accomplishment since joining Wilcox has been the realization that progress is not about grand leaps but small, consistent steps. Showing up every week, understanding and respecting their body's needs, and maintaining correct posture are all victories worth celebrating. This newfound awareness of their body, from their feet to their core, has been transformative, erasing past habits like hunched shoulders and replacing them with a confident, upright stance. Committing to a healthy lifestyle has brought about a profound shift in mindset. 
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Maureen has come to embrace the concept of "1% progress every day," realizing that integrating exercise into their daily routine is not only attainable but essential for lifelong well-being. This perspective shift has been a driving force, enabling her to maintain a steady and sustainable approach to fitness. The journey has been influenced by powerful role models, including her mother, who, despite being widowed in her 50s, continued to try new things and improve her life. Her resilience and positivity serve as a source of inspiration. Additionally, a chance encounter with a 75-year-old woman who skis 100 days a year at her own pace has reinforced the desire to remain active and athletic for as long as possible.
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Wilcox has played a pivotal role in Maureen’s transformation. Initially struggling with unhealthy eating habits and inconsistent exercise, she found herself unhappy and disengaged from the activities she once loved. Preparing for a high school reunion became a catalyst for change, leading them to reach out to Allison at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness. From the very beginning she felt welcomed and supported, finding a unique environment where coaching and encouragement are paramount. The supportive atmosphere at Wilcox, combined with a structured and progressive approach to fitness, has yielded tangible results. 
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This past winter, Maureen skied without getting winded or injured, enjoying the slopes with renewed vigor. She can now ride her bike up hills with ease and, most importantly, can "run" with their fast-moving grandson, embracing every moment of play.
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For anyone looking to commit to health and fitness, Maureen’s advice is simple yet profound: read the Healthful Living Guidebook, stay engaged with weekly emails, and set a schedule for workouts. Even with a full-time job and other commitments, she emphasizes the importance of flexibility and creativity. Whether it's trying new healthy recipes or pushing through a tough gym session, the key is to keep it simple and stay consistent. And when the going gets tough, just show up—sometimes, the hardest part is getting started.
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​Maureen’s journey of transformation at Wilcox is a shining example of how dedication, support, and a positive mindset can lead to profound changes. It's a story of rediscovery, resilience, and the joy of living an active, healthy life. 

​Way to go Maureen! We’re so proud of all that you have accomplished and look forward to all of the stories that you will continue to share about how your commitment impacts your life in meaningful ways!