Girls on the Run board member, Barbara Muckel, takes action and brings Xcel2fitnes to Northwest Indiana. Muckel is a GOTR coach and has been a member for 10 seasons. She shares the moment when inspiration struck her one night while browsing her Facebook newsfeed in November of 2015.
“Xcel2fitness came up on my Facebook newsfeed and I saw Molly Barker, founder of Girls on the Run shaking hands with Xcel2fitness founder, Stephen Vaughn,” said Muckel. “I felt a bigger power telling me to bring this program to the young boys of our communities. If it weren’t for the experience and support from the directors of Girls on the Run of Northwest Indiana I wouldn’t have bottled the courage to tackle this big project.”
X2F is a 6-week curriculum based program for 3rd to 6th graders. Xcel2fitness uses the fundamentals of fitness to develop the character boys need to chase their dreams. In the Fall of 2015, X2F served 67 boys in four schools and has since then grown to 122 boys in five schools and 1 recreational center.
Muckel isn’t shy to express her gratitude towards the experience she gained through Girls on the Run of Northwest Indiana. Members she coaches are proud of her accomplishments and express how she’s provided new opportunities for more families in the region.
GOTR junior coach and 6th grader, Kylie Hobbs, of Gary shares her experiences with the program and friendship with Coach Muckel.
“My mom knew Coach Barb,” said Hobbs. “Barb talked about openings at Girls on the Run and my mom started coaching. When I was in the third grade I always knew I wanted to be a part of Girls on the Run. Coach Barb was always very nice and helpful. I think it’s cool she also coaches the boys.”
X2F sessions and lessons develop teamwork, leadership and goal setting using speed, agility, cardio and strength. The boys compete in an obstacle race course at the end of the season.
“I love helping both the young girls and boys discover their potential,” said Muckel. “I was terrified to venture into this new journey but I thank my son for believing in me and pushing me to my potential. Girls on the Run will always be a part of me and I’m just thankful they encourage me to help the young girls and boys of our communities.”