Exercise Physiologists
Reuben started out as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist with the Royal Adelaide Hospital’s Centre for Physical Activity in Ageing, before starting AEP Health Group with business partner Chris Ftinogiannis in 2006. Reuben now works predominantly on business operational tasks while also working closely with staff to ensure all of AEP’s internal processes are smooth and efficient, ultimately leading to positive client experiences and high quality service delivery.
Chris is one of the directors of AEP Health Group with over 16 years experience as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist. Commencing his career in 1996 at RAH’s Centre for Physical Activity in Aging, he was responsible for cardiac and stroke rehabilitation programs until 2006 when he established AEP Health Group with Reuben Vanderzalm.
Sara has been working in chronic disease management since completing university in 2006 and has developed a wealth of experience in many clinical conditions. Sara has a passion for helping people especially in areas of weight loss and bariatric surgery. She has been part of the Adelaide Metabolic and Obesity Surgery team since 2007. She understands that lack of time is one of the biggest barriers to staying active, and helps her clients finds ways to get the most out of what they can fit in.
Skye has been working with AEP since 2008. She has had extensive experience working with a wide variety of clients with chronic health conditions. Skye has experience working in GP clinics, home and private consulting environment.
Tom has been working as an Accredited Exercise Physiologist for over 12 years and takes an education first approach to developing individualised exercise programs to aid clients in achieving both functional and health related goals. Tom specialises with those with cardio-metabolic concerns (Cardiac, Diabetes, Weight Management) and also cancer and exercise management. Most recently he has enjoyed a transition to helping those with living with disability improve confidence and lessen the impact on day to day life.
Keith commenced working with AEP Health Group in 2011 where he has gained experience in prescribing and delivering exercise for management of chronic conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, PTSD and weight management. His goal is to support and empower individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes through implementing gradually progressive exercise routines and ensuring that exercise programs are individualised. Personally, Keith enjoys staying active, reading and spending time with his wife and 3 boys.
Adam started working with AEP Health Group in 2014 after completing his post graduate studies in Clinical Exercise Physiology where he specialised in Multiple Sclerosis rehabilitation and in Strength and Conditioning. Adam has continued to progress his knowledge in these areas and developed vast understanding of exercise prescription working with a variety of clientele from athletes to the elderly.
Sam started with AEP in 2016 after completing his studies. Sam has a special interest in treating low back pain, though he can help people with a range of complex acute and persistent pain problems.
Tom joined the AEP team in 2018 and has gained experience working with a wide variety of clients with chronic diseases, co-morbidities musculoskeletal rehabilitation throughout both clinic and hydrotherapy environments. Tom has interest in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and clients dealing with chronic pain. His friendly and positive nature allows him to build great client rapport and help set them on the correct path towards improved health levels and optimum recovery.
Sidney has been with AEP since the start of 2019, with a love for getting clients with chronic conditions back doing tasks they through they could no longer do. Her friendly and understanding nature allows her to build great rapport to assist clients implement changes to form healthier lifestyle habits, and to improve physical and mental health. She has a particular interests in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoporosis.
Eleni started working with AEP Health Group at the beginning of 2019. Eleni enjoys working across a wide range of chronic conditions and is passionate about helping clients improve their health and wellbeing. Her patient and gentle nature allows clients to achieve their goals in a non-judgemental and trusting environment.
Madeline joined AEP in 2022 after previously working in Residential Aged Care for 3 years. She has a special interest in chronic pain, falls prevention and neurological conditions such as Parkinsons and Demetia. Madeline believes in the power of exercise to improve not only physical but mental health.
Jemma joined the AEP team in 2023 bringing invaluable experience in the aged care sector. With a keen focus on neurological rehabilitation, injury prevention and rehabilitation, particularly in the realm of lower-limb and sporting injuries, Jemma brings a specialized expertise that enriches our team’s capabilities. Her passion for making a tangible difference extends seamlessly into the disability sector, where she is committed to empowering individuals through tailored exercise programs and unwavering support. Jemma’s warm and upbeat personality fosters an environment of trust and positivity, laying the foundation for meaningful client relationships. Through her genuine care and encouragement, she cultivates a sense of empowerment within her clients, guiding them towards achieving their goals in a friendly and safe environment.
Alexia joined our esteemed AEP team in 2022 bringing with her a wealth of experience garnered from both private practice and hospital settings. Alexia’s journey is driven by an unwavering passion for aiding others, coupled with a dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals. Alexia’s professional repertoire spans a diverse range of conditions, including metabolic, muscular, disability, and neurological concerns. Her comprehensive skill set enables her to adeptly address a array of health challenges, ensuring tailored solutions for each unique case. What truly sets Alexia apart is her vibrant and enthusiastic demeanor, which creates an inviting atmosphere for clients to engage fully and pursue their goals.
Tom is a passionate exercise physiologist dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Graduating from the University of South Australia in 2023, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to his practice. With a genuine affinity for working with individuals in the disability sector, Tom strives to empower his clients through tailored exercise programs and personalised support. His commitment to improving physical health and overall well-being is matched only by his unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of his work. Tom’s boundless enthusiasm and genuine care make him a trusted ally in the journey towards optimal health and vitality.
Sarah joined our AEP team in 2024, bringing over 8 years of experience in the fitness industry. She is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their goals, focusing on strength and conditioning, injury rehabilitation, and chronic disease prevention. Sarah takes a holistic approach, addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of well-being. She develops personalised, evidence-based exercise strategies for clients, ensuring they feel motivated and supported throughout their health journey. Sarah’s compassion and practical expertise make her a valuable asset to our team.
Josh joined the AEP team in 2024. Prior to AEP Josh honed in on skills in private practice for four years where he had the privilege of working closely with clients in the DVA veterans space and with NDIS participants. These experiences have equipped Josh with a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals in these communities. Josh’s professional journey has been guided by a passion for musculoskeletal rehabilitation, strength and conditioning, and supporting individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. Whether it’s helping clients return to sport, re-enter the workforce, or simply enhancing their overall strength and mobility for improved independence and quality of life, Josh is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their goals.
Dietitians
Kathleen joined AEP in 2021 and has experience in aged care, weight management and healthy meal development. Kathleen’s interests lie in women’s health, building a healthy relationship with food, malnutrition, and lifestyle disease such as diabetes, high cholesterol and weight management. Kathleen is passionate about food, mindful eating and having a diet sustainable for the long term.
Matt started working with AEP in 2016. Matt believes in evidence based, individualised nutrition advice with specific expertise in weight management, diabetes, performance sports nutrition, irritable bowel syndrome, cardiovascular disease and weight gain in malnourished individuals. Matt is currently the Dietitian for Adelaide United’s W-League team and Research Dietitian in the intensive care unit at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, with a strong interest in nutritional recovery following acute illness.
Lauren joined the AEP team in 2022. Her special interests include chronic disease management, women’s health and GI disorders. She provides individualised care to help clients achieve their health and nutrition goals in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
Claire joined the AEP Health group team in 2024 with the attainment of a Masters of Nutrition and Dietetics from Flinders University. Claire brings a formidable blend of expertise and passion to our organization. Her professional focus centers on fostering healthier relationships with food and adeptly managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high cholesterol. Claire firmly upholds the principle of guiding individuals towards realistic health objectives without recourse to restrictive dietary measures. Her approach to nutrition underscores the importance of balance and sustainability, ensuring that clients embark on a journey towards improved well-being with confidence and resilience.
Physiotherapists
Jonathon started working with AEP in 2020. He completed his Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of South Australia in 2017. Jonathon is passionate about helping people in pain achieve their goals and get back to doing the things they love. He has a special interest in persistent pain conditions but enjoys helping anyone who is eager to see a change in their current function.
Mick joined the team at AEP in 2021. He completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at the University of South Australia in 2018 and previously worked at a busy private practice alongside a Specialist Physiotherapist in the management of persistent pain conditions. His interest in Physiotherapy is to help people improve control over their health and enjoy moving again.
Mitch joined AEP at the end of 2022. He has completed a Bachelors of Physiotherapy at the University of Canberra in 2020. He has a keen interest in general Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy as well as experience working with acute post-operative injuries. He is eager to help anyone who needs assistance in returning to pre-injury function as well as helping people improve their overall health and fitness or those that are interested in developing athletic traits such as speed, power, endurance, strength etc.
Hugo Joined AEP at the start of 2022. He completed a Bachelor of Physiotherapy at Charles Sturt University in 2020. Hugo loves working with people and finding ways to help them achieve their goals. Clinically, he has a keen interest in Musculoskeletal and Neurological physiotherapy, as well as experience working with acute post-surgical injuries and vertigo clients.
Gary joined the AEP team in 2024 and holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from Teesside University in the U.K, graduating in 2013. My journey in physiotherapy began in a private clinic and various sporting clubs, including a notable stint at Sturt Football Club spanning three years. Additionally, I had the privilege of serving as a performance medicine therapist for Cirque du Soleil in the USA for one year. Upon my return to Australia in 2020, I’ve been actively engaged in Occupational Rehabilitation and lending my expertise to local football clubs. My professional focus lies in guiding individuals with muscle and joint-related injuries back to optimal health. I derive great satisfaction from crafting tailored rehabilitation programs that precisely cater to each patient’s unique needs and aspirations.
Office Staff
Our office staff will be your first contact with AEP. They are always more than happy to assist you with any queries offering high quality, professional and friendly service.
Tanya started working with AEP Health Group in 2012 and has experience in all aspects of health administration including bookings and accessing services for NDIS Participants. Tanya manages the day to day running of the office and our friendly team of reception and admin staff.
Mel started with AEP in 2020 and manages the day to day running of the office and our friendly reception team. She has knowledge in many referral pathways including, Medicare, DVA, NDIS and WorkCover. Mel is passionate about providing clients and all visitors to AEP with quality service and care.
Sarah started working with AEP in 2021 after working in similar roles within allied health and hospital settings. Sarah handles day to day phone enquires and bookings for our four clinics.
Lisa started with AEP in 2022 and brings with her over 30 years of medical reception experience. Lisa answers daily phone call enquiries and is happy to assist with a range of appointment bookings.