MEET THE TEAM

Kristina Tankovich
Kinesiologist and Starting Strength Coach
Kristina is a Registered Kinesiologist and Canada's first female Starting Strength Coach! Her specialty is bridging the gap between barbell strength training and injury rehabilitation. She has a master's degree in Professional Kinesiology from the University of Toronto (2019). Prior to UofT, she earned an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science in Kinesiology degree from the University of Guelph. She has also earned a Diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion from Humber College. Kristina is a certified soft tissue release specialist and a certified K-tape specialist. She was also a soccer coach and an alpine ski racing coach for 10 years. Prior to starting Iron 97 with Jesse, she has had the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings including private practice, sport medicine clinics and fitness centers. Her passion for sport, movement and strength training along with her enthusiastic personality translate into her practice as she helps her clients become the strongest version of themselves.

Jesse Salloum
Physiotherapist and Starting Strength Coach
Jesse is a Physical Therapist and Ontario's first Starting Strength Coach! He specializes in barbell training for performance and rehabilitation. He graduated from University of Guelph with an Honours Bachelor of Applied Science in Kinesiology in 2019, a concurrent Diploma in Fitness & Health Promotion from Humber College, and a master's degree in Physical Therapy from Western University in 2021. Jesse also holds a second degree black belt in Krav Maga, and is working toward his blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Prior to starting Iron 97 with Kristina, Jesse worked in a variety of settings including private practice clinics, neurological rehab units, acute care hospitals and athletic performance centres. ​His clients and patients appreciate his no-nonsense style of training and rehab, especially when they start seeing incredible results.

Rebecca Nguyen
Physiotherapist
Becca is a passionate physiotherapist with a comprehensive background in fitness and athletic performance. She earned her Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) from Western University and has a strong interest in orthopedic rehabilitation, supporting individuals recovering from injury or managing movement-related conditions. Her treatment style is holistic and individualized, blending therapeutic exercise with hands-on techniques such as soft tissue release and joint mobilizations to support each individual’s unique goals. She is certified in acupuncture and dry needling through the Advanced Physical Therapy Education Institute, which she incorporates into her physiotherapy practice to support pain management and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. Furthermore, she integrates education and lifestyle strategies to make recovery practical and sustainable. As independence is at the core of her practice, she loves empowering clients to move with purpose and live life with autonomy. Outside the clinic, Becca enjoys cooking new recipes, maintaining a regular gym routine, and spending time with her friends, family, and her dog Bella.

Lisa Hawley
Registered Massage Therapist
Lisa graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in 2007. She has been a registered member of the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario since then. ​Her treatments focus on sports massage, injury recovery treatments, pre- and postnatal treatments, deep tissue treatments and relaxation treatments.  ​​She brings 18 years of experience and a passion for helping clients move, live and feel better.

Lia Romeo
Front Desk Administrator
Lia is currently obtaining an Honours Bachelor of Science Specialized degree in Kinesiology and Health Science at York University. Her favourite activities are hiking, working out, and playing soccer. Lia has a background in sports from playing both soccer and volleyball growing up, as well as a love for helping others, which encouraged her to pursue a career in healthcare. She is excited to apply her knowledge from her kinesiology studies to answer any questions you may have and help ensure you have a smooth visit!

Your physical strength is the most important determining factor in your health, performance and function.
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Yet modern rehab science lacks the ability to make you truly strong.
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We bridge the gap between strength training and rehabilitation.
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We will show you how strong
you can be.
