Conditioning Specialists
Dr. Sender Deutsch
Clinic Director - Chiropractor
Acupuncture Practitioner
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
Active Release Techniques ® Soft Tissue Treatment Provider
Certified Golf Fitness Instructor
Synergy Performance Tape Provider
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Dr. Sender Deutsch is one of the creators and founders of SHAPE Health and Wellness Centre. SHAPE’S comprehensive and multidisciplinary concept was derived from his strong educational background and in-depth experience within the health and wellness industry. As a result of his experience treating numerous patients and clients, Dr. Deutsch came to the realization that a facility with this orientation did not exist. SHAPE’s goal is to provide a personalized service, guided by health care professionals, in an upscale friendly atmosphere.
SHAPE was developed to revolutionize your lifestyle. It is Toronto's first truly integrated boutique health and wellness centre offering a total mind and body approach to your health.
Dr. Sender Deutsch is a graduate of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), where he obtained his Doctor of Chiropractic and Diploma in Acupuncture. Dr. Deutsch has successfully completed Level Two of the Rehabilitation Sciences Fellowship program with the American Chiropractic Rehabilitation Board (ACRB).
Prior to attending CMCC, Dr. Deutsch studied Kinesiology and Sports Therapy at York University. Dr. Deutsch is also a Certified Active Release Techniques Provider (Master's, Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, Spine and Nerve Entrapment), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Personal Trainer of the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Certified Golf Fitness Instructor of The Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) and Certified Sports Movement Specialist. He is also certified in Synergy Performance Taping, Custom Orthotic Therapy and Bracing. Dr. Deutsch has also taken post graduate courses in Medical Acupuncture, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS), Active Release Techniques ® Soft Tissue Treatment (ART®), Sports Medicine, Manual Medicine, Functional Training, Golf Performance Training, sports kinesio-taping and fascial abrasion techniques.
Dr. Deutsch completed his clinical internship at the Sherbourne Health Centre at St. Michael's Hospital. He actively participates in sports medicine and orthopedic rounds at Mount Sinai and North York General Hospital. He has also participated in spinal orthopedic rounds at Toronto Western Hospital and family practice rounds at St. Michael's Hospital.
He has a wealth of experience training and rehabilitating people of all ages. He has worked with amateur and professional athletes from the NHL, OHL, NCAA, national skiers, adventure racers and has worked with various media personalities, celebrity clients and CEO's. In addition, Sender has experience with everyday people including both weekend warriors to those who led previous sedentary lifestyles. Dr. Deutsch has been a faculty member at CMCC in the Department of Clinical Education since 2002.
Dr. Deutsch has been featured on City TV, CP24, Slice TV - Doctor In The House, Three Takes, and The Mom Show, CFRB Talk Radio and appeared in numerous articles within Toronto Life, Oxygen, Hello and Flare magazines, The Toronto Sun, The Globe and Mail, Metro News, Fitness Business Canada, Canadian Chiropractor, Chiropractic Economics, 2-Magazine, Wedding Bells, London Press, and CA magazine. To read articles or view video clips please check the MEDIA SECTION.
Dr. Deutsch's approach to treatment and training is totally revolutionary and unique. He has developed a two-step program called Integrated Therapy and Training (ITT) integrating state-of-the art Physical Therapy with High Performance Personal Training techniques. Each treatment is one-on-one and constantly monitored to ensure progress and success in a timely fashion.
Educating the patient is an essential component of any rehabilitation or fitness program. Therefore, each patient will be guided to effectively manage and prevent his or her condition from recurring in the future. An individualized program will be designed to rehabilitate your injury, expedite your recovery, achieve your goals and optimize your performance.
Dr. Shawn Thistle
Associate Clinic Director
Chiropractor
Acupuncture Practitoner
Active Release Techniques ® Soft Tissue Treatment Provider
Functional Range Release F.R.™ Provider & Instructor
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
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Dr. Thistle is a clinic director at SHAPE Health and Wellness Centre, and has helped numerous clients achieve optimal health by relieving their pain, strengthening their bodies, and revolutionizing their lifestyles.
Shawn graduated (magna cum laude) from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto and holds an Honours Degree (summa cum laude) in Kinesiology from McMaster University. He holds a certificate in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture from McMaster University, and is a Certified Active Release Techniques ® Soft Tissue Treatment (ART®) Provider. In addition, Shawn is fully certified as a Provider and Instructor in Functional Anatomic Palpation Systems™ and Functional Range Release™, a complete system of specific palpation and advanced fascial treatment and rehabilitation. As a compliment to his manual medicine and acupuncture training, Shawn is also certified as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (C.S.C.S.) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association NSCA-USA, and has been involved in fitness and competitive sport-specific training since high-school.
Shawn believes strongly in educating clients in all aspects of health and fitness. His diverse background and skill set allow him to administer effective integrated treatments to assist in the areas of pain management, acute injury care, post-surgical rehabilitation, functional training and rehabilitation, weight loss and balanced nutrition, increasing muscle mass, improving athletic performance, flexibility, cardiovascular fitness, stress management and sport-specific personal training. Shawn enjoys working closely with each client throughout their therapy and training program, instilling knowledge of how the body responds to therapy and exercise as progress is made in achieving health and personal fitness goals.
Shawn also pursues his passion for educating as a part-time lecturer in the Dept. of Orthopedics at Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto.
Dr. Thistle has been featured on CBC television, and as part of the SHAPE team in articles in the Toronto Sun, Toronto Life, Flare Magazine, and Canadian Chiropractor. He also contributes articles toCanadian Chiropractor Magazine and numerous online newsletters and publications.
Dr. Thistle has been featured on CBC television, and as part of the SHAPE team in articles in the Toronto Sun, Toronto Life, Flare Magazine, and Canadian Chiropractor. He also contributes articles to Canadian Chiropractor Magazine and numerous online newsletters and publications.
He is also founder and president of The Epicurean Scholar a division of RRS which provides continuing education seminars for chiropractors and physiotherapists. Designed for discerning professionals, courses are offered at unique locations combined with exclusive leisure and local attractions as well as gourmet food and wine experiences for attendees and their guests.
Dr. Marco Tocco
Chiropractor
Active Release Techniques ® Soft Tissue Treatment Provider
Acupuncture Practitioner
Conditioning Specialist
Synergy Performancce Tape Provider
Exercise Physiologist
Marco is a graduate of York University with a Specialized Honors Degree in Kinesiology and Health Science. While in University, he also obtained a supplementary certificate in the Fitness Assessment and Exercise Counseling stream. Marco then went on to achieve his Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC). To further pursue Marco's passion in chiropractic, he is in the process of completing his Fellowship in Chiropractic Rehabilitation Sciences (FCCRS) at CMCC.
Marco is a certified Active Release Techniques® Soft Tissue Treatment (ART®) provider in the Master's course, upper limb, lower limb, spine and nerve entrapment, which is a perfect complement to his manual therapy skills. Marco is also certified by the FIT instiitue as a Synergy Performance Tape provider, which utilizes elastic kinesiology tape on the skin to balance muscle function. Performance Taping, unlike conventional athletic taping is applied in a manner that allows the body to move freely without restriction. Performance Taping can be used to help balance muscle firing patterns and improve joint function. Marco has also completed the Level 1 Graston Technique course, which utilizes instrument-assistive devices for soft tissue injuries. Marco holds a certificate in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture for health professionals from McMaster University. Marco is also recognized by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) as a Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP). Furthermore, he holds a Level 1 National Coaching Certificate.
During Marco's undergraduate studies, he worked in the performance lab at York University as a fitness practitioner, where he conducted the physical and performance assessments on GTA firefighter applicants, varsity and professional athletes. Marco also has extensive experience working in the health field as a Kinesiologist. His chiropractic clinical experience has paved the way for him to successfully treat patients with simple aches and pains such as sprains, strains, postural dysfunction, headaches, as well as those suffering from far more serious conditions such as discogenic pain, sacroiliac joint dysfunction, shoulder pathology, joint replacement, whiplash associated disorders, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy.
Over the years, Marco has acquired an extensive amount of knowledge of the human body in the areas of anatomy, physiology, orthopedics, biomechanics and rehabilitation. This has allowed him to be well versed with any nerve, joint, and/or muscular complaint with which a patient may present, truly making Marco a neuromusculoskeletal specialist.
Marco utilizes an Integrated Therapy and Training (ITT) approach with each and every patient, which integrates state-of-the art manual therapy skills with high performance personal training techniques. Marco is also an avid fitness enthusiast, and is a firm believer in practicing what he preaches. Marco's education, experience, and unyielding commitment and passion to succeed makes him a valuable member of the SHAPE team.
Brendan Peel
Conditioning Specialist
Brendan is a graduate of the University of Toronto with a degree in Physical and Health Education and along with a Bachelor of Education. He is also a certified as a personal training specialist by Can Fit Pro and has supplemented his training by completing his levels 1 & 2 of the National Coaching Certification Program. Brendan has experience working with clients of all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes. His positive and upbeat personality will be a motivating factor for you to reach your training goals.
Throughout his life, Brendan has had a love for physical activity and sport. As the three year captain of the University of Toronto volleyball team and through his experience playing at the provincial and national levels, he has gained a wealth of knowledge in sport specific training. Brendan is skilled in providing intense full body workouts using agility drills, plyometrics, speed work and jump training.
Brendan also has extensive experience in track and long distance running. He has trained for and successfully completed many half as well as two full marathons, providing him a wealth of knowledge in nutrition and unique training strategies. As a SHAPE high performance personal trainer, he will be dedicated and flexible when providing you with a workout that will push you to your max and ensure that you attain your training and performance goals.
Brendan has an enthusiastic personality and believes in pushing his clients while maintaining a fun upbeat attitude towards training. Achieving your goals is his first priority and he will strive to be right there with your every step of the way.
Daniela Freitas
Treatment Plan Co-ordinator
Clinic Manager
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
Exercise Physiologist
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Daniela graduated from York University with a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Kinesiology and Health Science. A supplementary certificate in Fitness Assessment and Exercise Counseling makes her an invaluable asset to the fitness and wellness team at SHAPE.
As a personal trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Daniela has widespread knowledge and experience in sports performance, weight loss, pre and postnatal conditioning, as well as balance, stability, and functional training. Daniela is also recognized by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology as a Professional Fitness and Lifestyle Consultant (PFLC).
While assisting with medical and fitness testing for the Toronto Maple Leafs, the NHLPA Entry Drafts, and the Ontario Firefighters, Daniela gained extensive experience in the assessment of physical performance as well as the ability to motivate high performance athletes.
In her role as Treatment Plan Coordinator at SHAPE Health and Wellness Centre, Daniela is passionate about helping all clients achieve their goals. She works closely with each client to ensure proper progress is made and each life is enriched and revolutionized by their program at SHAPE.
Kevin Villifana
Registered Physiotherapist
Acupuncture Practitioner
Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist
Kevin has always had an intrinsic understanding of the importance of fitness and training from his competitive days in soccer and volleyball to the present, enjoying recreational sports such as soccer, hockey, tennis, squash, basketball and ultimate frisbee. Kevin was exposed to the benefits of Physiotherapy when a devastating injury prevented him from enjoying his passion for sports. As a patient he sought out Physiotherapy for the first time and shortly after, he was restored to full function with no limitations allowing him to return to his beloved sports. It was this experience that motivated Kevin to pursue his Masters degree in Physiotherapy.
Kevin began his journey by acquiring a Bachelor of Arts degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences with a minor in Psychology at York University. This allowed him to understand the science behind human movement which is crucial for the specific training and conditioning of his clients. Kevin then went on to complete his Master of Science degree in Physiotherapy at Queen's University. His completion of courses in Athletic Therapy and Athletic Injuries, courses from the Advanced Physical Therapy Education Institute, and experience in 5 orthopedic settings has providing him with the tools to affectively treat and restore full function to his clients.
Furthermore, he intends to attain his ART® certification in the near future. Kevin has a strong foundation in managing acute and chronic low back and neck pain, various sport injuries, muscle strains, ligament sprains, repetitive strain and rotator cuff injuries, functional rehabilitation; in addition to a variety of other musculoskeletal impairments resulting from everyday and/or recreational activities. In order to treat these conditions he can provide joint mobilizations to improve movement, spinal manipulations, specific manual stretching, therapeutic taping, soft tissue and myofascial release/massage and specific exercises to rehabilitate and prevent injuries.
Kevin has always appreciated the complexity and immense physical capabilities of a single human being. Thus, he trains and treats every client as a unique individual with specific goals which optimizes their results. This is why he has dedicated his life to studying the human body, and why he is motivated to continually advance his professional expertise. Kevin believes that with guided education, treatment and training, every client can benefit from a little push in the right direction to achieve their full potential. His charismatic and motivated personality combined with his extensive knowledge base provide him with the right tools to be an excellent member of the SHAPE team.
Maurice Abbey
Conditioning Specialist
Born in London, England, Maurice’s first passion for sports was football (soccer here). After moving to Canada, he lived in various places such as Newfoundland, Nunavut, as well as Northern Saskatchewan (Indian Reserve) where he was introduced to hockey, baseball, North American football as well as Arctic sports like the “'single leg high kick'.
Maurice obtained his BSc in Kinesiology and Health Sciences at York University in 2006 and has been a conditioning specialist for over 6 years. He is a Certified Kinesiologist through the Ontario Kinesiologist Association and is also Can-fit Pro Personal Training Certification. Maurice is also currently working towards his certification as an Exercise Physiologist (CSEP).
He has immersed himself in various settings from teaching English in Japan, to work environments associated with disabilities (Ontario March of Dimes), and individuals wanting to increase range of motion for sports or injury rehabilitation. While volunteering at the Ontario March of Dimes he worked with children who have Cerebral Palsy. This experience focused on the prevention / reversal of the inability to coordinate motor function, increase flexibility and ROM.
The phrase “Being like water” is a concept that Maurice truly embraces, which is the ability to adapt to any situation.
Maurice’s theory regarding training follows this simple principle: if a person is not one with their own self, how can one endure the physical and emotional demands of everyday life? As a personal trainer and fitness consultant, he often hears questions such as, “How do I use the machines?” His reply is simple, “Once you know how to use your body, you’ll be able to use any machine.”
Anthony Aqui
Conditioning Specialist
Registered Kinesiologist
Anthony is a graduate of the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. He went on to complete a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology at Wilfrid Laurier University. While completing his Masters degree, Anthony investigated the limitations of the human body during exercise. He is also recognized as a Registered Kinesiologist (RK) by the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario.
While completing his undergraduate and graduate degrees, Anthony gained hands-on experience completing physiological exercise tests. He took part in numerous research studies investigating molecular and biochemical mechanisms in muscle fatigue as well as the systemic response to exercise. Anthony has used his education and experience to in rehabilitation programs, working with clients with neurological disorders and athletic injuries.
While growing up in Winnipeg, Anthony competed in volleyball and track and field at both the provincial and national level. His athletic endeavours were cut short by numerous injuries which led him to pursue a career in exercise performance and rehabilitation.
Graham Hay
Conditioning Specialist
Certified Personal Trainer
Graham is a graduate of Queen’s University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education (Honours). He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and is a Certified Personal Trainer (CSEP-CPT), through the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology. His education and training has helped him to develop a strong understanding of both the theory and application behind strength and conditioning training as well as rehabilitation therapy.
Graham has an array of work experience, from research and program design to clinical implementation of strength and conditioning training. He spent time at the Hospital for Sick Children, working in the exercise research lab developing treatment programs using physical activity for various chronic illnesses. He also worked at Brock University conducting fire fighter screening tests, and recently managed a research study on children’s activity levels in the Niagara District School Board. Prior to joining Shape he was working as a Kinesiologist at a cardiac rehabilitation center.
Graham’s interest in physical activity and fitness is not just apparent in his work, but in all facets of his life. He is a self-proclaimed sports fanatic and finds the most enjoyment either on the basketball court or on the trails with his mountain bike. He has also been involved with coaching various youth sport teams.
Graham believes that physical fitness can have a positive effect on all aspects of one’s life. With the right tools, guidance and attitude any fitness goals one may have are achievable. Graham looks to continue to update his skills and knowledge as a Kinesiologist and be a valuable member to the SHAPE team.
Marlo Goldstein
Marlo Goldstein BSc (Hons) Kinesiology, MSc Sports Therapy (MSST)
Sports Rehabilitation Therapist
Strength & Conditioning Specialist
Yoga & Pilates Specialist
Marlo is a third degree black belt in Kempo karate, Kung-Fu and Kickboxing. Having participated competitively in martial arts, Marlo became dedicated to teaching others, which inspired her to pursue a career in Sports Therapy.
Marlo completed a four year BSc in Human Kinetics Kinesiology from the University of Guelph. Following her undergraduate degree, Marlo furthered her education in London, England, where she achieved her Master's in Sports Therapy.
While overseas, Marlo worked as the sports therapist for the London Nigerian Rugby Club, Bank of England and Hampstead Rugby Club and Islington Borough Ladies Football Club, where she provided injury treatment and sports specific rehabilitation exercises both during training and throughout their games. Marlo was also the sports therapist for the Dance Injury Clinic and Evaluation (D.I.C.E), assessing and rehabilitating injured dancers, which came naturally for her, as she studied ballet since the age of four. Additionally, Marlo was asked to lecture at London Metropolitan University to teach both undergraduate and Master's students in sports massage, sports injury rehabilitation, and the applications of clinic practice to sport. During this time abroad, Marlo covered topics on anatomy and physiology of the body, injuries ranging from the ankle to the spine, and sports specific treatments.
After her return to Toronto, Marlo signed on to work with the Toronto Saracens Rugby Club and is now excited to be a part of the SHAPE team. Marlo has become well-versed in the practices of Yoga and Pilates and is passionate about the positive impacts these movements can have on the body. She also strongly believes in continuing education to ensure that she can provide clients with the most current fitness and injury rehabilitation exercises. Marlo's goal is to provide each client with an individually tailored program that enables them to attain their maximum potential.
Saro Farra MKIN, CEP, CSCS, NSCA-CPT
Conditioning Specialist
Saro is currently working toward his PhD at the University of Toronto. His graduate work centers on exercise physiology and its application to health and fitness.
Saro is deeply committed to the improvement of human performance. He is certified as an Exercise Physiologist (C.E.P.), a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (C.S.C.S.), and a Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT). These certifications have allowed him to test and train various members of the Canadian Olympic Team for sports including Hockey, Rowing, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, and Tennis. He has also worked with competitive athletes looking to enhance their performance in golf, skiing, and the Ironman.
Saro is valued member of the SHAPE team as he ensures you receive quality instruction. He will motivate you with exciting new workouts and will educate you about the inner workings of your body. Together, you will quickly and safely reach your fitness goals and more!
Lisa Ong CPT
Clinic Manager
Conditioning Specialist
Lisa comes to SHAPE with over 15 years' experience in the Client Relations and Hospitality Industry. She started her career at one of Toronto's top hotel spas and discovered her deep interest in customer service. While developing her professional skills through on-going training, Lisa advanced her career and accepted the concierge role within the 5 star hotel. Throughout her early adult life, she had a growing interest in fitness and incorporated exercise into her everyday life.
With a degree in Social Work, Lisa left Canada in 2005 to volunteer abroad. Upon her return she decided it was time to pursue her interest and passion for health and wellness. She became an expert in mastering her own health and well being through fitness and took steps to motivate others.
Now a Certified Personal Trainer through CPTN, Lisa is continuously upgrading her knowledge and skills with the latest strength and conditioning trends. Lisa is eager to learn and loves to share her knowledge with others. She is enthusiastic in her desire to help improve the lifestyles of individuals through fitness and therapy.
Stefan Rewa BSC (Kin), CPT-CSEP
Conditioning Specialist
Stefan Rewa
Stefan holds a Bachelor of Science Specialized Honours Degree in Kinesiology and Health Science from York University, and is recognized by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) as a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT). Stefan has vast work experience with clients of all fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes who he treated while working at the Toronto Cricket Club as a Health and Fitness Associate. Stefan has been professionally involved with medical and fitness testing for the NHLPA Scouting Combine and participated in the development of standardized testing protocols for the British Columbia Firefighters.
Stefan has always had a passion for fitness, health and sport. In his youth, he competed in the Trillium equestrian circuit and was ranked in the top 10 in Ontario for his age group. As a well-rounded athlete, he is an avid skier, golfer, cross country runner, track and field participant and soccer player. While attending university, his desire for endurance events developed and he began his pursuit of aspired fitness goals. Stefan has participated in close to 50 organized racing events including marathons in Canada and the US, 100 mile bike races in North America, as well as the Muskoka Ironman. Stefan is committed to developing a sport specific periodized training program and taking your athletic performance to the next level.
With his experience, passion for fitness and academic knowledge, Stefan has the expertise to partner with clients in achieving their goals.
Michael Herbert, B.E.P.S., MHK, CK
Michael Herbert
Kinesiologist
Certified Exercise Physiologist
Michael enjoyed many years playing competitive hockey, basketball and volleyball on multiple regional and rep teams. He is a graduate of Laurentian University with a degree in Éducation Physique et Santé and recently completed a Masters of Human Kinetics degree through Laurentian University. His studies focused on effects of exercise parameters on excess post-exercise oxygen consumption in adolescent males. In 2007, Michael was an associate researcher in a project presented at the European College of Sports Science yearly congress. The results of his Masters degree were presented at the same conference in 2012. Michael is fluent in French & English.
He is currently practicing as a certified kinesiologist (Ontario Kinesiologist Association) and is a certified exercise physiologist (Canadian Society of Exercise Physiologists). Michael is currently a level 1 trained volleyball coach through the National Coaching Certification Program.
Michael has extensive coaching and teaching experience in the field of athletics, health and human kinetics. Michael worked as a laboratory instructor at Laurentian University in 2007-2008, teaching lab courses in anatomy, physiology, exercise physiology, biomechanics and exercise testing and prescription. He was an instructor at Cambrian College from 2007 to 2011 teaching anatomy, physiology and health and wellness. He has 6 years of volleyball coaching experience and 3 years of basketball coaching experience. Many of his former athletes went on to have university or collegiate careers.
While Michael has always maintained an active lifestyle, he has had to endure weight control issues and a major injury while playing sports. His personal experiences allow him to appreciate the hard work and dedication it takes to make drastic lifestyle changes. Michael is kind and caring and works tirelessly to ensure that his clients attain their fitness goals.
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