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We are so proud to recognize Andrea Medaris as our Athlete of the Month! Andrea’s journey with us began in 2021, and what she’s accomplished since then is nothing short of extraordinary—not just in the numbers, but in the transformation of her mindset, her relationship with movement, and her daily life.
These changes are impressive, but what’s even more powerful is the way Andrea has reclaimed her body and her life. She tells us that life now just feels easier—she can move with more ease, breathe more fully, sleep better, and feel a renewed sense of hope and joy.
And of course, we have to give a shout-out to Andrea’s favorite movement: ball slams—and her least favorite: planks (though we suspect she’ll beat that 10-second hold goal in no time!).
Inspired by Andrea’s story?
You don’t have to go it alone—and you don’t need to have it all figured out to take the first step. Schedule a no-obligation phone call with us to chat about your goals and see how we can support you on your journey. We’re here to meet you where you are. 💛
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We are beyond excited to celebrate Diane Lavallee as our May Athlete of the Month!
Since starting, Diane has seen incredible improvements in her strength, stamina, and confidence. What sets her apart is her joyful attitude and the intention she brings to every workout. She’s not just moving her body—she’s dancing through life. (And if the music is right, even a challenging session becomes a Zumba party in her mind!)
At Wilcox, she’s found consistency, motivation, and a supportive community that keeps her coming back. She credits our team of trainers for helping her understand the “why” behind every movement, which has given her greater connection and confidence in her workouts.
When asked what advice she’d give to others, Diane keeps it simple but profound: “Just move. Any movement. I had a vision for how I wanted to feel—and I went after it.” Diane, your story is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your path, set bold goals, and embrace the fun along the way. You bring joy, strength, and heart to every session, and we are so proud to celebrate YOU this month. Keep being amazing! 💙
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 | Since joining Wilcox, Ben has made incredible strides in fitness, strength, and balance, discovering muscles he never even knew existed! While he continues working on applying these skills to everyday tasks, his progress is undeniable. One of the most impressive things about Ben is his ability to embrace challenges head-on. His favorite exercise? Box jumps onto the plyo boxes! “That’s a real mind-over-matter thing for me,” he says. On the flip side, mountain climbers remain his least favorite, but he pushes through, knowing the benefits outweigh the struggle. |
Beyond the physical gains, Ben takes pride in paying attention to the nuances of each exercise, soaking in every tip and demonstration from our dedicated trainers, Bree, Tyler, and Allison. Their focus on technique and continual improvement is truly inspiring!
| Before committing to a healthy lifestyle, Ben appreciated how much work went into both getting fit and staying fit. “It's a lot of work to get fit. It’s also a lot of work to stay fit, but it's easier to stay motivated.” And motivated he is! His goal is simple but powerful: to keep doing what he loves—hiking, fly-fishing, tackling home projects, and staying active for years to come. When asked who inspires him most, Ben doesn’t hesitate. He admires those who overcome life-threatening diseases, people who choose kindness despite hardships, and individuals who selflessly serve in the armed forces. This deep appreciation for resilience and dedication fuels his own commitment to health and wellness. |  |
For Ben, Wilcox Wellness & Fitness is more than just a place to work out—it’s a family. “I look forward to every class, even the ones I know will kick my ass, because my instructors and my classmates are family. We care about one another.”
 | His advice for anyone considering a fitness journey? “Take the leap. Sign up. Stick it out through the tough stuff. And no, you are never finished.” Congratulations, Ben, on being our April Athlete of the Month! Your dedication, perseverance, and incredible spirit make our Wilcox community stronger. Keep up the amazing work! |
Are you interested in learning more about our programs and how we work with our clients? We would love to talk with you.
We are committed to our client's success, so we have developed a complete on-boarding process that is designed to help our clients feel confident going into a new training program.
The first step in the process is to schedule a brief 10-minute phone call where we will talk about your personal goals and how our programs work.
We are committed to our client's success, so we have developed a complete on-boarding process that is designed to help our clients feel confident going into a new training program.
The first step in the process is to schedule a brief 10-minute phone call where we will talk about your personal goals and how our programs work.
For the past three years, Gigi Macmillan has shown up, put in the work, and made fitness an unwavering part of her lifestyle. She may not always feel excited to hit the gym, but she never regrets the feeling of accomplishment when she walks out of class.
 | Her journey is a testament to the power of consistency, resilience, and the determination to keep moving forward—no matter what. Gigi’s biggest achievement isn’t just about hitting a milestone—it’s about the commitment to showing up, week after week, for three years. Staying active isn’t just something she does; it’s a habit she has built into her life. Her next challenge? Dialing in her nutrition to complement her dedication to movement. Just like her workouts, she knows it’s about progress, not perfection, and she’s determined to keep improving. |
When it comes to workouts, Gigi thrives with TRX and bungee exercises, finding them both challenging and fun. But if you ask her to pick a least favorite move? There’s no hesitation—burpees and pushups! (We hear you, Gigi! 😆)
| For Gigi, fitness isn’t just about how she feels today—it’s about the future. With three growing grandsons, she wants to be an active participant in their lives rather than just a spectator. Staying strong, mobile, and energized is her way of ensuring she’s ready for whatever adventures lie ahead. She also draws inspiration from her family, particularly her dad, brother, and sister, who have always prioritized health and fitness. Their example has motivated her to keep pushing forward, even on days when she’s not feeling 100%. |  |
Gigi credits Wilcox Wellness & Fitness for giving her a supportive, encouraging space to grow. The friendly faces, the knowledgeable instructors, and the welcoming atmosphere have made her fitness journey not just possible—but enjoyable.
 | Her Best Advice? “One day at a time. Appreciate and acknowledge your efforts and progress.” Gigi’s story reminds us all that fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about commitment, showing up, and appreciating every step forward. Congratulations, Gigi! We are so proud of you and can’t wait to see what’s next in your journey! 🎉💪 |
At Wilcox Wellness & Fitness, we celebrate the dedication, perseverance, and personal transformation that come with committing to a healthier life. This month, we are thrilled to recognize Tom Giggey as our Athlete of the Month—a man who has redefined his limits, embraced new challenges, and proven that it’s never too late to push yourself to new heights.
 | A year ago, Tom made a promise to himself—to prioritize his health and fitness. That commitment has led to steady weight loss, increased strength, and newfound confidence in and outside the gym. One of the biggest transformations? Letting go of his protective social bubble and embracing the incredible Wilcox community. But his journey is far from over. Tom is still working to improve his strength, balance, and coordination, especially in lower-body movements, to support his love for backpacking, skiing, and minimizing the impact of Type 2 diabetes. |
His approach to fitness is one of longevity and sustainability, ensuring his body remains strong and capable for all of life’s adventures.
| Tom has surprised himself along the way—especially when he discovered his love for burpees! “I had never even heard of them before joining Wilcox,” he says. On the flip side, jumping rope has proven to be his biggest challenge, but instead of avoiding it, he’s made it his #1 goal to improve. His proudest achievement? Completing the Tough Mountain Challenge in July 2024—his first-ever race at the age of 61. Not only did he finish strong, but his results exceeded his expectations, proving that age is no barrier to pushing limits. And he’s not stopping there—he’s already signed up for the 2025 challenge! |  |
Before starting this journey, Tom wasn’t sure he had the time to commit to fitness. He also believed that once he started, results would come quickly. But over the past year, he’s learned that while progress is gradual, it’s absolutely worth it. He has found the time, made the commitment, and embraced the process, proving that consistency leads to real, lasting change.
 | Tom’s motivation stems from a deep-rooted belief in making the most of his life. As a newborn, he was given just a 1 in 1,000 chance of survival. That experience has shaped his mindset—he is here for a reason, and he refuses to waste the life he’s been given. He draws inspiration from his father, George, who, at 91 years old, still drives, sails, and skis, embodying the kind of longevity and vitality Tom strives for. On the other end of the spectrum, his daughter, Nicole, has inspired him through her resilience, intelligence, and commitment to staying active—ultimately motivating him to join Wilcox. |
Tom credits much of his progress to the exceptional coaching and support he has received from Allison, Bree, and Tyler, who have helped him move safely, protect his joints, and stay injury-free. He also acknowledges the 5:30 AM crew, whose camaraderie and encouragement have played a key role in his success. "Their support and friendship keep me coming back," he shares.
Tom lives by the words of Colin Powell:
Tom lives by the words of Colin Powell:
“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic, it takes sweat,
determination, and hard work.”
determination, and hard work.”
Tom, your journey is an inspiration to us all. Your dedication, positive mindset, and relentless drive remind us that it’s never too late to challenge yourself, set new goals, and achieve things you never thought possible. Congratulations on being our Athlete of the Month!
This month, we are thrilled to celebrate Matt Leino as our Athlete of the Month! Since joining the Wilcox community, Matt has embraced every challenge with enthusiasm, transforming not only his body but his mindset as well. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and inspiration.
 | When Matt began his health and fitness journey, his goals were simple: to feel more energized, lose weight, and build strength. Today, he proudly reflects on his progress—he’s achieved incredible muscle definition, boosted his energy levels, and developed a mental toughness that carries over into all areas of his life. “The confidence I’ve gained and the focus I’ve developed have impacted my everyday life in ways I couldn’t have imagined,” he says. One of his proudest accomplishments was completing the Tough Mountain Challenge, a testament to his resilience and determination. |
But Matt’s journey doesn’t stop here. He’s set his sights on reaching a new milestone—getting under 200 lbs—and is working hard to improve his balance. “It’s all about the next challenge,” Matt shares. “Having a goal to strive for keeps me motivated, and the strategy, tools, and competitive drive to achieve it make the process so rewarding.”
| Matt has found exercises he loves—like anything with dyno balls, especially halo ball slams and log tosses—and ones he loves to hate, like TRX squat jumps. No matter the movement, he brings his all to every session, showing up with the commitment that has driven his success. The Wilcox community has played a huge role in Matt’s transformation. “Wilcox has given me so much confidence and a new zest for life,” he says. As part of the Early Bird crew, Matt has built a routine that fuels his day with energy and drive. |  |
He speaks highly of the supportive and knowledgeable trainers—Allison, Bree, and Tyler—and the genuine care they show for every client. “The team’s dedication to helping us meet our goals is unmatched. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this amazing community.”
 | For Matt, fitness isn’t just about the physical changes—it’s about the friendships and camaraderie he’s found along the way. “I’ve created some great new friendships here, and that sense of community is so motivating,” he explains. He credits his wife, Katelyn, as his biggest inspiration. “She has overcome so many challenges with grace and strength, and her dedication to her own fitness journey inspired me to join Wilcox. She’s helped me become the best version of myself.” |
Matt’s advice for anyone starting their own fitness journey? “Don’t think, just do! The hardest part is starting. Set goals, hold yourself accountable, and go get it. Once you start seeing results, it becomes infectious—you’ll want to keep going and continue to improve.”
Congratulations, Matt, on all you’ve achieved and the example you’ve set for the Wilcox community. Your story inspires us all to embrace our goals with determination and a positive mindset!
Join us in congratulating Liz Phillips, our December Athlete of the Month!
 | Liz’s story is one of courage, determination, and transformation. She joined us here at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness in January, seeking to prepare for an active adventure hiking the Dolomites in Italy with her 76-year-old hiking partner. At the time, she didn’t feel confident in her physical abilities and wanted to ensure she could keep up without injury or exhaustion. Now, nearly a year later, Liz reflects on her progress with gratitude, joy, and newfound confidence. "I just want to thank you, Bree, and Tyler for being so encouraging and wonderful," Liz shared. "It's hard to express how grateful I am and how awesome it feels to be feeling strong again! I love it!" |
Before joining the gym, Liz had a pattern of starting at fitness centers with enthusiasm, only to overdo it, become sore, and eventually stop going. At Wilcox, however, she found an environment that allowed her to build strength gradually and sustainably. With the guidance of her trainers, she embraced a consistent routine that not only boosted her energy but also alleviated the aches and pains she previously experienced.
Her preparation paid off. Liz’s trip to the Dolomites was everything she had hoped for. “I was able to do all the things I wanted to do and had the energy and strength to do it!” she said proudly.
Her preparation paid off. Liz’s trip to the Dolomites was everything she had hoped for. “I was able to do all the things I wanted to do and had the energy and strength to do it!” she said proudly.
| Overcoming Barriers, Embracing Strength When Liz first began training, even the idea of a jumping jack felt daunting. "It felt like my legs and feet might crumble," she admitted. Today, she not only tackles jumping jacks but feels stronger and more confident with every move. Liz particularly enjoys exercises like the log toss and TRX row, which have helped her feel muscles she never thought she’d connect with again. "I can actually feel my lats now, and they’re strong!" she said. Her least favorite? The kettlebell swing. But Liz’s mindset is about progress, not perfection. She’s committed to mastering it in time. |  |
Liz’s transformation goes far beyond physical strength. She shared that her journey at Wilcox has given her renewed confidence in herself and her body, which has had a positive impact on her personal life. After years of being on her own following a divorce, Liz is now dating and feels good about herself—a milestone she credits to her improved self-esteem and well-being.
 | The supportive and inclusive atmosphere at Wilcox has been another highlight of Liz’s journey. “The atmosphere is fantastic! So many nice people, no judgment. I’ve made new friends,” she shared. The group training model also resonates deeply with her, reminding her of the sense of teamwork she loved during her high school sports days. Liz’s story is a testament to what can happen when you take that first step—even if it feels daunting. She has proven that small, consistent actions can lead to big changes, and her journey serves as an inspiration to anyone hesitant about starting their own health and fitness journey. |
To those considering taking that leap, Liz would say this:
"Find a place that supports you, challenges you, and
helps you grow at your own pace. It’s worth it.”
Congratulations, Liz, on all your hard work, incredible accomplishments, and the example you set for others. Your journey reminds us all of the power of perseverance, community, and the joy of rediscovering strength.
"Find a place that supports you, challenges you, and
helps you grow at your own pace. It’s worth it.”
Congratulations, Liz, on all your hard work, incredible accomplishments, and the example you set for others. Your journey reminds us all of the power of perseverance, community, and the joy of rediscovering strength.
Ready to begin your own journey? The team at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness is here to help you take that first step—just like Liz did. Together, we can help you feel stronger, more confident, and ready to tackle whatever goals you dream of achieving. Let’s start the conversation! Schedule a calll to learn more about how we can support you in reaching your health & fitness goals: www.wilcoxwellnessfitness.com/getstartedbrunswick.
This month’s Athlete of the Month at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness is a true example of what’s possible when dedication meets a supportive community. Brittany’s journey began with a simple goal: to keep up with friends on hikes and have enough energy to enjoy playtime with her nieces and nephews. Since then, she's accomplished much more than just keeping pace—she's transformed her mindset, increased her energy, and experienced a new level of joy in movement.
 | Reflecting on her fitness achievements, Brittany shares that, where she once lagged, she now keeps up effortlessly and has the stamina to run around with the little ones. Her newfound physical strength has also sparked a deep mental clarity, reducing anxiety and helping her approach each day with focus and positivity. Like anyone on a fitness journey, she’s still working on a few goals—one of which is finding a balance with her love for sweets. She’s candid about her approach, emphasizing that while she enjoys occasional treats, she’s actively exploring healthier replacements and relishes the energy bite recipes from our Weekly Warm Up. |
She’s also dedicated to refining her technique and continually checking her posture, both inside and outside the gym, ensuring she’s connected to each movement.
When it comes to workout preferences, she’s all about the jump rope and ball slams—activities that combine cardio with a sense of strength and control. But ask her about squat jumps, and it’s a different story; those remain her least favorite, though she embraces the challenge they bring.
When it comes to workout preferences, she’s all about the jump rope and ball slams—activities that combine cardio with a sense of strength and control. But ask her about squat jumps, and it’s a different story; those remain her least favorite, though she embraces the challenge they bring.
| One of her biggest achievements since joining Wilcox has been letting go of the scale and embracing a healthier, more holistic approach to her body. In her own words, “It’s not about how you look, it’s about how you feel.” She’s shifted her mindset from weight loss to wellness, focusing on nourishing her body and celebrating the strength she feels both mentally and physically. Her perspective on health and fitness has also evolved. She used to worry that staying active would be grueling, but she’s learned that with the right community, fitness can be a fun, fulfilling part of life. |  |
When she realized that each session takes less than 2% of her week, she reframed her approach, now fully appreciating the health benefits and happiness it brings.
Her motivation is beautifully simple yet profound—knowing she has one life to live, she’s committed to making it as healthy and joyful as possible. Her greatest inspiration, though, comes from her mother. A role model of strength, resilience, and compassion, her mother has shown her how to persevere and give selflessly, and this influence has deeply shaped her approach to life and fitness.
Her motivation is beautifully simple yet profound—knowing she has one life to live, she’s committed to making it as healthy and joyful as possible. Her greatest inspiration, though, comes from her mother. A role model of strength, resilience, and compassion, her mother has shown her how to persevere and give selflessly, and this influence has deeply shaped her approach to life and fitness.
 | Wilcox Wellness & Fitness has become her sanctuary, a place that not only strengthens her body but lifts her spirit. Her husband often comments on her positive mood after each session, a testament to the transformative impact of the gym’s atmosphere. She appreciates the trainers’ and clients’ unwavering support, noting that she’s never found such a genuine and encouraging environment at any other gym. For those considering their own health journey, she has a powerful message: “Take the leap! It’s much easier than we convince ourselves.” |
Her advice is a gentle reminder to prioritize health over hesitation—if there’s time for a Netflix episode, there’s time for a training session, and the benefits are immeasurable. As she puts it,
“You are stronger than you think and deserve a happier, healthier life.”
“You are stronger than you think and deserve a happier, healthier life.”
At Wilcox Wellness & Fitness, we love celebrating the incredible individuals in our community who show that a commitment to health and fitness can truly transform lives. This month, we’re excited to recognize Meghan Cassidy who has embraced her journey with a sense of humor, determination, and self-compassion.
 | After welcoming a new baby into the world, Meghan set her sights on a familiar goal for many moms: getting back to her pre-pregnancy weight. With consistent effort, she hit that milestone, but her fitness journey didn’t stop there. In her words, "sugar happens," and she’s still working on fine-tuning her goals, including losing a bit more weight and building muscle. Her playful attitude about the ups and downs of staying on track shows that she doesn’t take herself too seriously, making the process more enjoyable and realistic. |
Her commitment to staying active during pregnancy was no small feat. She credits her dedication and consistency as her biggest accomplishments since joining the gym, recognizing how staying in motion helped her feel fantastic throughout the process. And while burpees and box jumps remain on her list of least-favorite exercises, she’s found joy in boxing, a workout that lets her channel strength and energy in a fun way.
| Like so many, she once believed that making time for the gym would be difficult, especially as a busy mom. But her mindset has shifted completely. She now sees that committing to her health doesn’t require hours of effort each day—it’s just about finding those 45 minutes to prioritize herself. "It’s not as hard as one might think to make the gym a priority," she says, reflecting on how the manageable length of sessions has helped her stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed. |  |
She also highlights the motivating energy she gets from being part of the Wilcox community. Watching others make progress—whether it’s physical strength or mastering new exercises—keeps her inspired and excited to keep showing up. This shared experience, where everyone is working toward their personal best, reminds her that fitness is a journey we’re all on together.
 | Perhaps one of the most profound lessons she’s learned is the importance of self-care. "I have to make sure my ‘cup is full’ by taking care of myself before I can fill anyone else’s," she shares. For her, going to the gym isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s about creating space for herself amid the busy demands of motherhood. It’s her chance to reset, recharge, and simply focus on her own well-being. Her advice for anyone thinking about starting a health and fitness journey is simple: embrace the “me time.” |
Whether you’re a parent, constantly on the go, or just busy with life, setting aside time for yourself at the gym can be a game-changer. And at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness, the supportive trainers and uplifting atmosphere make each session something to look forward to.
| Her journey shows that fitness isn’t just about reaching specific goals—it’s about finding balance, enjoying the process, and being kind to yourself along the way. We’re proud to have Meghan as part of the Wilcox family and hope her story inspires others to take that first step toward their own health and wellness goals. |  |
Erica Peterson’s journey is one of quiet perseverance, powerful growth, and the steady development of confidence.
 | As the mother of two young children, she faces the same challenges many do—limited time, countless responsibilities, and a tendency to put everyone else first. But a year into her health and fitness journey at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness, Erica has not only reshaped her body but her mindset as well, transforming her approach to health in a way that feels sustainable for the long term. When Erica first walked through the doors of the gym, like many people, she was focused on the numbers on the scale. Her goal was to change her body and reach a certain appearance. But as she started training, something clicked: real progress wasn’t about weight loss—it was about strength. |
Over the course of the year, she learned to appreciate what her body could do. Erica recalls one moment in particular when she realized her bad back and “clicky” hips had healed—not because of a quick fix, but because of the strength she had built.
| For Erica, the biggest accomplishment wasn’t a specific physical feat, but the simple act of making time for herself. Juggling two young kids and a busy schedule is no small feat, but carving out time to work out has been a game-changer for her mental health. “I have precious little time, but I’m so glad I use it for this. The snowball effect on my mental health has been phenomenal,” Erica says. It’s a powerful reminder that even in the midst of a hectic life, prioritizing self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Every journey has its ups and downs, and Erica isn’t shy about admitting what she doesn’t love—squat jumps. |  |
“Please stop making me do these,” she jokes.
On the flip side, she enjoys the challenge of lizard push-ups, showing that sometimes the hardest exercises are the ones that keep you coming back for more.
On the flip side, she enjoys the challenge of lizard push-ups, showing that sometimes the hardest exercises are the ones that keep you coming back for more.
 | Erica’s commitment to her health and fitness isn’t just for her—it’s for her children, Olivia and Julian. She wants to be a model of self-care for them, breaking the cycle of women sacrificing their physical and mental health in their mothering years. “I want my kids to know what it looks like to fill your cup before you pour out for others,” she explains. Her inspiration comes from a mountaineer named Bill Tillman, who once contrasted the challenges of mountaineering with those of sailing. The lesson she took from him—and carries with her daily—is the idea of mastering yourself in a world that’s largely out of your control. |
As someone who has been on this journey for a year, Erica’s advice to anyone thinking about starting their own health and fitness program is simple but profound: “Celebrate every little step forward in your journey. Honestly, there are no big steps—it’s all little steps, so celebrate them like they’re big.”
Erica’s journey is a testament to the power of consistency, the importance of self-care, and the incredible results that can come from shifting your mindset. If you’re on the fence about starting your own journey, her story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect—you just need to start.
Erica’s journey is a testament to the power of consistency, the importance of self-care, and the incredible results that can come from shifting your mindset. If you’re on the fence about starting your own journey, her story is a reminder that you don’t need to be perfect—you just need to start.
Author
Hi! My name is Allison Hopkins and I am the owner of Wilcox Wellness & Fitness in Brunswick, ME. I am excited to bring WILCOX to Brunswick and share in my passion for living a great life through health and fitness.
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