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! 💙 |
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. |
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. |
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! |
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.
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. |
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%. |
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! 🎉💪 |
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. |
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! |
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 lives by the words of Colin Powell:
determination, and hard work.”
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. |
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!
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!" |
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. |
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. |
"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.
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. |
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. |
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.” |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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. |
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.
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. |
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.
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. |
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. |
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.
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! |
When Justin began his journey at Wilcox Wellness & Fitness, none of us could have predicted the profound transformation it would bring to his life. One of the most significant goals he has achieved is not one he initially set out to conquer: feeling better about himself. This journey has fortified Justin's self-confidence, making him feel stronger both physically and mentally. |
Despite the strides he has made, Justin is still diligently working towards new goals. In the gym, he's focused on perfecting his push-up—a seemingly simple exercise that continues to challenge him. Beyond the gym, managing stress remains a work in progress. Exercise provides a crucial outlet, yet finding ways to prevent stress from creeping into his daily life is an ongoing endeavor.
Among the various exercises, Justin finds joy in box jumps and rows on the cable machine. While planks are typically neutral for him, the Indo Board has added an enjoyable twist to his routine. Conversely, burpees and bear crawls remain his least favorite exercises, but they are part of the process that pushes him to grow. One of Justin's proudest accomplishments since joining Wilcox is improving his posture. The work we do on the gym floor has translated into better habits outside the gym, reducing the discomfort and headaches he used to experience from poor posture at work. This change is a tangible testament to the impact of our efforts. |
What motivates Justin is the continual improvement and the sense of accomplishment that comes with each small victory. The drive to pick up a heavier weight or push himself a little further keeps him going. Inspiration comes from various sources, but his grandparents stand out. Their dedication to family and their own well-being serves as a powerful example. Within the gym, the Wilcox community inspires Justin. The collective commitment, effort, and camaraderie are palpable, fueling his motivation week after week.
Wilcox has made Justin more resilient. In the past, he recognizes how setbacks were more difficult to overcome, leading to the avoidance of challenges for fear of failure. Now, he embraces risks and views setbacks as opportunities for growth. Recently, Bree encouraged Justin to try adding a pushup to the Indo-plank that he was tackling with ease. Although he didn't succeed on the first attempt, the experience taught him the value of taking risks and gave him a new goal to strive for. This mindset shift is one of the most significant ways Wilcox has impacted his life. |
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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