When we hear about Race2Rio participants who have exceeded their goals, we like to share them! Check out some of our employees and see what keeps them on track and motivated.
Maura Bowen
Charlotte
Team: New Zealand
Why do you like the Race2Rio challenge?
Being newer in the Atlantic family, it is nice to meet my team, see their faces, and where they work. It helps connect all the facilities. It is easy to forget about exercising when you’re busy; the challenge is a good reminder to keep moving and pay attention to our bodies. The Race2Rio challenge makes staying active fun!
How has the Race2Rio challenge and wellness program impacted you?
My background is in the Natural/Organic field so I was happy to see the wellness program when I started with Atlantic. Being a competitive person, it keeps me focused on the amount of steps and it is a good reminder to take take a break at work every once in a while.
What has been your greatest amount of steps in one day? What did you do?
Yesterday was my greatest at 22,120 steps! Last night I noticed that I still needed 3000 steps to meet my daily goal so I started walking (again). I alternated quick bursts and moderate walking. After I met my goal, I saw that I was 500 steps away from hitting the 40,000 mark so I continued walking circles in my living room. Needless to say, my animals thought I lost my mind 🙂
Outside of walking, what other activities do you enjoy?
I enjoy hiking, photography, swimming, reading, and dancing.
What motivates you to stay active?
Aging motivates me.
Maura: A great person once told me it is very important to listen to your body closely and not ignore what it tells you.
Linda Bodie
Wilmington
Team: Australia
Why do you like the Race2Rio challenge?
I like it because it is fun to watch the teams move around from first place, to third place, etc. It is nice to get to know my teammates and it keeps me motivated!
How has the Race2Rio challenge and wellness program impacted you?
The wellness program has deeply impacted my life. Because of it, I found out I am a type 1 diabetic. I had all of the signs and symptoms, but had no idea they were signs of the disease. Now, I am much more educated and taking charge of my health through the wellness program. The Race2Rio gets me moving, and I feel better all the way around. I have more energy, my sugar levels are lower, and my mood is so much better! It is amazing how just a simple thing (walking) can change so much.
What has been your greatest amount of steps in one day? What did you do?
I don’t remember my highest step count that day, but it was when I did the ColorMeRad 5K. It was the first race I’ve ever completed!
Outside of walking, what other activities do you enjoy?
I like to walk on the beach and play with my dog (son) Bosley. On the weekends, my husband and I like to ride the Motorcycle.
What motivates you to stay active?
Life itself! I have so much to live for including 3 beautiful grandchildren. I stay active so I can be around and keep up with them.
Linda: I would like to say thank you to Atlantic! I am motivated to be better for myself because of what you do for us.
Abel Ballines
Sturgis
Team: Sweden
Why do you like the Race2Rio Challenge?
I like the Race2Rio challenge because it is challenging for me and helps me focus on being more active.
How has the Race2Rio challenge and wellness program impacted you?
I carry my Fitbit device everywhere I go because of the Race2Rio challenge which motivates me to move more. Also, being part of a team requires more responsibility and participation.
What has been your greatest amount of steps in one day? What did you do?
My greatest amount of steps in one day was 27,453 steps. I work 2nd shift so I try and walk 3-4 miles before I go into work.
Outside of walking, what other activities do you enjoy?
I enjoy running and weigh-lifting.
What motivates you to stay active?
I’m motivated to stay healthy and active because I have a family history of diabetics. My goal is to avoid diabetes and I know that being healthy will help.
Abel: I am planning on doing my best in helping team Sweden get to the top and win!
Marie Henley
Greensboro
Team: Dominican Republic
Why do you like the Race2Rio Challenge?
I like the challenge of each “race” because it helps me stay on track. My health issues are hereditary so this is a lifetime challenge for me. I have stayed on track for over 25 years and the incentives Atlantic gives me is just icing on the cake.
How has the Race2Rio challenge and wellness program impacted you?
My clothes fit better and I am enjoying eating what I like in amounts that are reasonable. I also feel like I have toned up and have more muscle than I have in a long time. I have enjoyed using recipes I received from the Lunch and Learn seminars.
What has been your greatest amount of steps in one day? What did you do?
I don’t remember the exact amount but it was close to 25,000 steps in a day. I try and get walks in during the day whenever I have a minute, even if it is a few steps. It adds up!
Outside of walking, what other activities do you enjoy?
I really like being outside planting flowers, working the beds, or clearing trees. Anything outdoors!
What motivates you to stay active?
My family is very important to me. With 4 grandchildren, I need to stay active to keep up! My granddaughter is recently engaged which means bringing in more family.
Marie: I am so glad to be working at Atlantic. I came from Asheboro Paper and everyone kept telling me Atlantic was a great place to work. I have never doubted them. Everyone welcomed us with open arms and Atlantic continues to find ways to take care of their employees.