Our February 2018 Spotlight Athlete, Stephanie Swiderski, was chosen for 3 reasons: consistency, coach-ability, and her glowing positivity.
Born and raised in North Royalton, Steph is currently working as a Technology Coordinator for Hudson City Schools where she discovers ways to implement new technology to help students develop and grow. What began as a career as teacher, has grown into a position where she can combine what she loves (teaching) with her values (growth and development).
Steph has been a competitive athlete all of her life. Her adolescent years were spent in the water swimming, while she then excelled in track and cross-country in high school. Then, in college, Steph grew an even stronger passion for running, and became a marathon and half marathon runner. She has completed 5 full marathons and 18 half marathons!
Steph has been participating in CrossFit for several years. It was upon moving back to the area that she decided to try out Perpetual Fitness, and was “hooked after the first class!”
Since joining Perpetual, Steph has reached many of her fitness goals. She has grown stronger in many of her lifts, has set new PRs and has seen progress in her overall fitness. She has also greatly improved her lifting form – her lower back is no longer sore from working out like it used to be! CrossFit has taught her to embrace new challenges and try new things, even if they make you uncomfortable!
Hot Seat Questions
What is your most recent or near-future adventure?
I hope to soon experience Cupertino, CA and explore Apple’s Headquarters ~ which is literally a spaceship!
What is something we might not know about you?
An article I wrote was published in an educational magazine, and I have presented at national conferences.
What are 3 things you are truly and deeply grateful for?
(1.) Supportive and loving husband, parents, family, and friends.
(2.) The success and achievements that God has helped me earn through faith and hard work
(3.) The travel experiences I’ve been lucky enough to have
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my work ethic and dedication. I try my best to always “give it my all” whether it’s my marriage, friends, family, career, or CrossFitting at Perpetual Fitness!
What motto or phrase do you live by and/or describes you the best?
I always strive to remain humble and kind.
If you HAD to perform at a talent show, what would be your act?
Well, I was in a talent show once (against my will!), and I tap danced!
What are your 3 best qualities?
Hard working, good listener, eternally optimistic
What is one thing about yourself that you are working on?
Eating healthier…I’m pumped for the new Driven Nutrition line at Perpetual!
What would you do everyday if money was not an issue?
Live a slower paced life
What keeps you motivated at Perpetual?
I am a huge fan of the variety of programming and classes at Perpetual Fitness. I enjoy the CrossFit, Perpetual Oxygen, and Sculpting classes. When I’m feeling extra ambitious, I love that I can get in both CrossFit and Oxygen or Sculpting classes back-to-back.
What is your favorite and least favorite CrossFit exercise / movement / WOD?
I love double unders and butterfly sit ups, so my favorite WOD is Annie. My least favorite CrossFit exercises are squat snatches, rope climbs, and wall climbs.
Favorite music? Favorite music to WOD to?
I listen to everything! In a WOD, there’s nothing like a good rap song to ramp up the energy level! Throwback songs are always fun to WOD to as well!