Athlete Bio – Tierney Korotkin

Tierney

Name
Tierney Korotkin
Age
58
Weight Class
132 lb
Where do you live?
Reno NV. We just moved from Folsom, CA
Squat PR:
198 lbs official 209 lbs unofficial
Bench PR:
150.9 lbs official
Deadlift PR:
270 lbs official
Clean & Jerk PR:
104 lbs unofficial
Snatch PR:
73 lbs unofficial
Years lifting?
6
How did you come to powerlifting or Olympic lifting?
I started lifting after my 3rd surgery from a tennis injury. In 2011 I had surgery for a meniscus tear in my knee, and the doctor advised me not to play anymore, with all the lateral movement. I found the gym and then eventually wanted a goal to work towards. So I started powerlifting. Now I am enjoying Olympic lifting too, and I enjoy the technical aspect of Olympic lifting.
Do you have any previous athletic or lifting experience?
I was a competitive tennis player and I played Div 1 tennis for UVA for all 4 years.
Do you compete? Why or why not? If you compete, what do you like most about the competitions?
I do compete, but haven’t since August. I took a break because we were moving and training for a competition was too much emotionally. I love the camaraderie during the competitions with the ladies competing. I like the diversity and the bonds and friendships that I have made, as well as the feeling of competing and doing my very best.
Equipped or Raw?
Raw
Do you have a coach or trainer? In person or online? How did you find your trainer/program? Do you have any advice for women looking for a trainer?
I work with Jaime Llopis at Crossfit Sacramento. I found Jaime 3 years ago when I wanted help with my squats and deadlift. I trusted Jaime and felt comfortable communicating with him. I can’t imagine working with a coach that I did not trust. Communication is also important.
Where do you train? Gym, garage?
Right now I train at Crossfit Sacramento when I’m in town and at a big gym when I’m in Reno that has tons of powerlifters.
What is the hardest part about beginning lifting as an older woman?
Sometimes I feel selfish when I make lifting a priority, but it is important to me so I do. Many people don’t understand why I like lifting, but I love the way it makes me feel and look, and so does my husband. As an older lifter I need to pay attention to recovery time more than I used to.
How has lifting affected your health?
My hips no longer bother me when I sleep. Also, I have always maintained a healthy diet, but now I pay more attention to what I eat. I feel great. I feel young, strong and healthy.
What would you tell women just beginning this journey?
It’s important to do what makes you happy. If lifting is it, then be proud. I think strong is beautiful. My husband and I ballroom dance, and dancers don’t really get why I lift. I do what I love and love what I do. Enjoy the process.