About Us
Our Story
NeuroGym® was conceived and developed over 30 years ago by our Founder Dr. Avi Nativ (PhD) as a concrete way to enable more effective rehabilitation of motor deficits associated with neurologic injuries or conditions.
By synthesizing the science of motor learning and the physiology of exercise into a practical method of neurorehabilitation, NeuroGym® provides a methodology and treatment approach that is scientifically based, as well as practical, effective and measurable. Its methodology is based on sound principles of motor learning, physiology of exercise, biomechanics, neurorehabilitation and research in brain plasticity.
Meet Our Lead Instructors
At NeuroGym®, we take pride in the extensive training, theoretical knowledge, and exceptionally high standard of care upheld by our teachers.
Avi Nativ, PhD
The NeuroGym® concept was founded over 30 years ago by Avi Nativ PhD (Kinesiology), BScPT. Avi received his doctoral degree in Kinesiology from the University of Waterloo, and was a registered physiotherapist in Ontario for more than 25 years. While doing his doctoral and post-doctoral research work, Avi’s focus was on brain organization, plasticity and rehabilitation. Avi was intrigued with scientific research findings that indicated the remarkable capacity of the brain to adapt after injury, and envisioned how such plastic changes could be encouraged through inventive ways of enabling more patient-initiated, active movement rather than the more conventional passive therapy approaches. Through rigorous research, he developed a line of custom, patented equipment and an evidence-based, active approach which combined have been providing amazing opportunities for those with neurologic injuries (even years post-acute) to continue to improve their motor skills.
Eric Heiden, MSc R.Kin
Eric Heiden, Director of NeuroGym® FIT, has worked in fitness and rehabilitation for over 16 years. He has worked directly with a wide range of clients toward goals that range from improving fitness, to recovering function after a major injury, to maintaining physical independence. Eric has published research on balance training and fall prevention and presented results from ongoing NeuroGym® FIT programs at numerous conferences, including the 2013 World Stroke Congress. In addition to his work with NeuroGym® FIT, Eric has been a sessional lecturer in the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Health Sciences.