Athlete of the Month – Tiffany Stefanko
Congrats to our friend and Athlete of the Month, Tiffany Stefanko.
What have you accomplished in your life that you’re most proud of?
I would have to say I am most proud of the awesome young man my husband and I have raised our son to be.
If you could take 3 months off and do whatever you wanted, what would that time look like?
I would love to take 3 months to travel and explore Europe.
How did you feel before you found TrAk?
I’ve always tried to stay active but have never considered myself “Athletic”. I have dealt with knees that slip out of socket since i was a child. About 2 years ago I dislocated my knee while running the Akron relay. I tore my MPFL and was unable to bend my left knee past 90° for months. After PT and manipulation of my knee I had most of my range of movement back. I then had to decide… surgery or try and strengthen all the muscles around my knee. That’s when I started coming to TrAk.
How do you feel now?
Since I’ve been with TrAk I have been able to continue running, I feel so much stronger, and I’ve avoided surgery!
How has TrAk changed your everyday life?
Going to TrAk has changed many things for me. Aside from the obvious like more energy and feeling stronger, it’s allowed me to meet some pretty awesome people and has gotten me outside my comfort zone too!
Goals…personal, professional, family?
Personal goal would be to keep pushing myself to try new things. A professional goal of mine is go on a dental mission trip. And my family goal is to just cherish every little moment I can get with my son. He’s 13, so those days of hanging out with mom are numbered.
If you were in a band what existing band/group do you see yourself in?
Hmmm… that’s tough… I like so many it’s hard to pick one. I play drums (although its been quite a while) so maybe I’d just start my own. Any takers? James? Ha ha!
Best place to travel that you’ve ever been?
While I do love the beach, I would have to say our camping trip out west to Yellowstone was the best.
What do your kids remind you that’s ok to do?
My son reminds that it’s ok to ask for help sometimes.
What personal failure has helped lead to your ultimate success?
It is not so much a failure, but a risk. I quit my job in January this past year. It was a job I loved, but it was not right for our family. It was an extremely hard decision, but having spent the last summer with my kids, it was the right one.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen in the gym?
I think that would have to be John Michaels high school talent show video! (Editor’s Note: just ask him to see it. Please).
What three people [living or dead] would you go camping with next weekend?
I think I would like to go camping with my son, my uncle, and my grandpa. My uncle and grandpa have passed and I really wish my son could’ve gotten to know them better… they were awesome.
Which sport/activity would you love to do, but are afraid to?
Skydiving
Funniest things you’ve seen your kid do?
I would say the most recent thing he is doing that cracks me up is the stroking and admiring of his 4 armpit hairs!
Favorite movie?
When I think of a favorite movie I think of my childhood favorites. You know, the ones you watched over and over and knew word for word. Those would be Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, and The Outsiders.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Treat others like you want to be treated.
At what age were you in the best shape of your life?
Now.
Words to live by or favorite quote?
Follow your heart but take your brains with you.
What adventure do you plan to have in the future?
My next adventure will be at the end of January. Nine friends and I are heading to the Yucatan!!
Favorite book and why?
Don’t really have one.
Something interesting we don’t know about you?
I used to DJ.
What do you like most about being apart of the TrAk Family?
I love the people. Everyone is so nice and fun. And it’s great to be held accountable!
Biggest accomplishment at the gym?
Well it wasn’t at the gym, but it was because of the gym that I ran the Akron half again this year but with zero knee pain this time!!
