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What can we help you find?

Here are some answers to our frequently asked questions.

General FAQs

Where can I reach you?

Via email – It’s best to reach us at info@vitalperformancecare.com

Where are you located?

Vital Performance Care is located inside the Eau Claire Athletic Club (ECAC). More information on location can be found HERE.

How do I get into the building?
  1. You will enter the SW doors of the building adjacent to the loading dock and off of Eau Claire Ave SW.
  2. Here is the pinned location: IMAGE.
  3. These doors are locked for security purposes. There is an intercom box located beside the entrance where you can hit the Vital Performance Care button and will be buzzed in via the ECAC front desk staff.
  4. Please follow the Vital Performance Care signage up the stairwell to the left or utilize the elevator through the double doors within the ECAC club, to the right.
Where do I park?

Paid street parking in the area is readily available. There are no designated Vital/ECAC parking stall

Is it wheelchair accessible and/or do you have an elevator?

We have elevators and are wheelchair accessible!

What if I am running late or have to cancel at the last minute?

We require 24 hours’ notice to cancel a session. If you’re going to be late or need to cancel, please email or call us as soon as possible.

I am not a member at ECAC, can I come to Vital Performance Care?

Yes! Utilize THIS link to our online booking system.

I am a member at ECAC, how do I book personal training and/or manual therapy services?
  • Utilize THIS link to our online booking system.
  • ECAC staff can also direct you to our location within the building or help you book a session.

Therapy FAQS

Who do I book with?

At Vital, we have a wide variety of professionals under one roof. Unless you are looking directly for one professional, we typically advise that you book with one of our chiropractors and/or physiotherapists for a New Patient Assessment and Treatment for your first visit. If you are unsure about how your concern needs to be treated and managed, we can then help you decide on the best practitioner for your care moving forward. Alternatively, you can give our office a call to speak with us directly or send us an email.

What do I need to complete before my appointment?
  • Upon booking, you will receive an email from our software system called Jane App. You will be prompted to fill out an online profile, intake form, consent form and your credit card information.
  • Consent Forms: Consent forms may be filled out AFTER speaking with your designated practitioner prior to your appointment OR after the assessment and diagnosis have been provided. Please note, we require consent prior to any treatments rendered.
  • Credit Card Information: We request credit card information as per our late cancellation policy. While we understand things come up, a late cancellation of no show fee will be charged as per our cancellation policy listed below.
  • Cancellation Policy: We require 24 hours notice in order to cancel your appointment. If cancellation occurs within 24 hours or you miss your appointment window, you will be charged the full amount of your appointment. However, if you have experienced a fever, cough or runny nose within the last two weeks, we ask that you do not attend the clinic. Cancellation fees will not be applied for late notice due to suspected illness.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?

As we typically perform a physical examination consisting of human movement, we encourage you to wear something comfortable or athletic. If you forget, no sweat, we have shorts and gowns available!

If you have any patient information such as imaging reports, doctors letters, notes from trainers, etc. that is pertinent to your complaint/reason for your visit, please bring those along so we can add them to your file.

If I am already a patient of another clinic within the Coalition Health Group ecosystem - Coven Health Collective or Coalition Performance Care, what do I book and for how long?
  • You can see the same practitioner at ANY clinic by selecting the practitioner you wish to see. NOTE: please pay close attention to where you are booking!
  • If you have not seen a practitioner before or you are booking a different discipline (ex. You have seen massage, but not physio),, it is best to book a 45 MINUTE appointment unless advised otherwise from a Vital staff member.
Do you do direct billing to third party insurance companies?

We do not direct bill. After your appointment and payment has been made, an email with a receipt will be sent to the email on your patient profile. These receipts can be submitted to most insurance companies online. Lose your receipt? No worries!! We can send that over to you anytime upon request.

How much can I claim to my insurance company for my visits?

Every insurance provider is different and the allocation of coverage is different for each profession. It is important that you understand your insurance policy so you can make the best of it throughout the year! We are not responsible for keeping track of your third party insurance coverage.

Do you provide post-surgical rehabilitation under Alberta Health Services?

While we do provide excellent post-surgical rehabilitation, we are not covered by Alberta Health Services for the government subsidized sessions post-surgery.

Do I need a referral from a doctor?

No, you do not need a referral from a doctor to attend our clinic.

Do you treat everyone and not just athletes?

We treat everyone of all ages and walks of life!

What is your cancellation policy?
  • Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in your therapist’s day that could have been filled by another patient. As such, we require 24 hrs notice for any cancellations or changes to your appointment. Patients who provide less than 24 hrs notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged the full amount for their missed appointment.
  • However, PLEASE NOTE: If you have experienced a fever, cough, runny nose or difficulty breathing in the last two weeks, we ask you not to attend the clinic. Cancellation fees will NOT be applied for late notice due to suspected illness.
Do you offer support for WCB and MVA services?

We do not provide support for WCB cases. MVA services are offered at the discretion of the clinician.

Chiropractic + Physio FAQS

What is the difference between chiropractic and physiotherapy?

It depends on the practitioner! At Coalition, our physiotherapists and chiropractors often treat very similarly and have a wide array of manual therapy techniques in their toolbelt. For more information on each practitioner, please visit the About Vital section of our website. Remember, if you do not know who to book with, please feel free to give us a call or email us and we will be happy to assist!

How long do I book for?
  • If you are a new patient to Vital Performance Care, please book a full New Patient Assessment and Treatment appointment. If you are a returning client, your practitioner will likely have informed you to book a follow up appointment at a certain length of time. If they have not, please reach out to us so we can clarify that for you!
  • Please note: if you have not been to the clinic in a long time (over 1 year) and/or you have a NEW complaint or issue, please book 45 minutes! It will allow us to have enough time to assess and treat your presenting complaint.
What do I book 20 min appointment times for?

Please note that a 20 minute appointment is ONLY to be booked if you have discussed this with your practitioner and they have recommended it. Most of our appointments are at least 30-45 minutes in length, as we provide a multitude of treatment modalities, exercises and/or assessments. When in doubt, just give us a shout!

What is the difference between dry needling, acupuncture and electro-acupuncture?
  • At Vital, our physiotherapists and chiropractors may use different needling techniques as a treatment tool for a multitude of acute injuries or chronic pain conditions. They will work with you to determine what technique is most effective as it is not a one-size-fits-all approach. All techniques use the same sterile needles of different lengths and gauges depending on the area of the body treated. Our therapists lean on On Point Needling for our training!
  • Dry needling involves inserting needles directly into muscles to help release tension, improve movement, improve muscle activation and reduce pain. Your practitioner will sometimes manipulate the needle within the tissue to gain the desired effect.
  • Acupuncture involves the same needles used for dry needling but sometimes leaving them in the muscles for a longer period of time for the same reasons listed above.
  • Elecro-acupuncture is the same as acupuncture with the attachment of small battery operated devices for the same reasons listed above.
  • Remember, everyone is different and will respond differently so we ensure to find the best needling technique for each patient!

Massage Therapy FAQs

Are there different kinds of massage therapy?

Yes, we offer different kinds of massage therapy such as performance massage therapy, deep tissue massage therapy, hot stone massage therapy, etc.

How do I know who to book with?

Take a look at our massage therapy certifications and bios to get to know our therapists!

What is performance massage therapy?
  • This therapy combines movement assessments, facial (connective tissue around muscle) or neuromuscular stretch techniques, manual therapy and a strength training component. Gordon practices this therapy with athletes such as gymnasts, dancers, cheerleaders, olympic weightlifters and every day gym goers.
  • The value added with this service is that clients do not necessarily have to be ‘injured’ or ‘in pain’. They are provided with guidance on more effective movement patterns in sport, fitness movements and every day activities.
  • Prior to the first visit that includes a detailed physical assessment, clients are asked to provide a detailed performance outcome or end goal (ie. increased mobility, less pain during movements, movement goals such as skills needed for their sport or life in general.) A performance metric will often be determined as well to track progress – this is very important because it allows Gordon to establish the appropriate interventions. Hands-on treatments include fascial, neuromuscular or loaded stretching followed by manual therapy (Functional Release, cupping with myofascial release, joint mobilization etc.) and finishes with a strengthening component. After the treatment, a reassessment of the pertinent movements take place where correction is needed. Clients will again be given recommendations for exercises and treatment frequency.
What is a deep tissue massage?
  • Deep tissue massage therapy is a type of massage that focuses on reaching deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue (called fascia).
  • The therapist uses slower strokes and firmer pressure than a typical relaxation massage. They might use their fingers, knuckles, elbows, or forearms to apply targeted pressure, aiming to improve mobility and optimize function.
What is a relaxation massage?

A relaxation massage, also often called a “spa massage”, is a gentle, soothing treatment designed primarily to help you unwind, de-stress, and feel calm — physically, mentally and spiritually. Unlike therapeutic styles like deep tissue massage, the focus here isn’t on treating specific pain or dysfunction, but rather on wellness and central nervous system relaxation..

What is a hot stone massage?
  • Hot stone massage is a therapeutic massage technique that uses smooth, heated stones to help relax muscles, improve circulation, and ease tension throughout the body. It’s known for being deeply soothing and comforting.
  • The therapist places warm basalt stones (usually made from volcanic rock that retains heat well) on specific points of the body — commonly along the spine, in the palms, or between the toes. They may also use the stones as an extension of their hands to massage muscles with gentle pressure and long, flowing strokes. The heat from the stones helps to warm up tight muscles, allowing the therapist to work more deeply and effectively with less discomfort.

Training + Exercie Physiology FAQs

Is Personal Training, Kinesiology and/or other services covered through third party insurance?

Every insurance provider is different and the allocation of coverage is different for each profession. It is important that you understand your insurance policy so you can make the best of it throughout the year! We are not responsible for keeping track of your third party insurance coverage.

Do you do direct billing for third party insurance companies?

We do not direct bill. After your appointment and payment has been made, an email with a receipt will be sent to the email on your patient profile. These receipts can be submitted to most insurance companies online. Lose your receipt? No worries!! We can send that over to you anytime upon request.

What’s the difference between kinesiology vs exercise physiology?

We wrote a great blog about the difference between all of these! Find that HERE.

What's the difference between 1-1 and 3-1 small group training?

1-on-1 sessions offer fully personalized coaching and feedback. Small group training (typically 3:1 client-to-coach ratio) still starts with an individual assessment and custom plan, but with less ongoing feedback. It’s ideal for those who want expert guidance in a more cost-effective, community-based setting.

How many people are in small group training?

Not at all. Our small groups typically have 3 people, but you don’t need to come with a group. Once you have a training membership or package, you can join any available small group time. Each person follows their own custom program, making it a flexible and convenient option that 1-on-1 training doesn’t always offer.

What do the programs entail? (powerlifting, weights, kettlebells, etc.)
  • Every program is customized based on your equipment access.
    1. If you’re training with us in person, we’ll use a mix of equipment tailored to your goals.
    2. For online Custom programs, we’ll design your plan around whatever you have available.
    3. If you’re doing a Foundations program or the $20 Strength Club, check the program page for specific equipment recommendations.
Do I require performance testing and/or an assessment before training?
  • Yes, you’ll need to book a New Client Assessment before booking your training sessions. In this session we will select the relevant testing that will meet your needs and cater to your personalized program.
  • Refer to the Performance Testing FAQs below for more information
How much do services cost at Vital?

All of the prices for the different services can be found HERE.

How do I manage my account/payments?

HERE is a link to manage your booked in-person sessions (along with that account and payments) while HERE is a link to manage your online programs and payments.

Online Programming FAQs

Can I do this program with an injury?

It depends on the injury. Our programs are designed to improve strength, mobility, and function, but they are not a replacement for physiotherapy, individualized assessments, or post-surgical protocols. If you’re experiencing uncontrolled pain, nerve involvement, or a recent acute injury, you should consult a medical professional before starting. However, if you’re dealing with a chronic issue or want to build resilience in an area prone to injury, our programs may be a great fit.

What equipment do I need?

Each program has different requirements. For Hip Foundations head HERE. For Shoulder Foundations head HERE. For Foot Foundations head HERE. There are 3 different version of $20 Strength Club which range from no equipment needed, to full weight room setup required.

Our remote coaching programs for Strength and for Endurance are typically tailored to the equipment you have access to.

Who is this programming for?

Our online programs are for anyone looking to build strength, mobility, and resilience—whether you’re an athlete, an active individual, or someone who wants to move better and feel stronger. You don’t need to be a high-level competitor to benefit, and we provide progressions and modifications to fit different ability levels.

What programs are available?

We offer a variety of programs including:

  1. Shoulder Foundations – Strength and mobility for healthier shoulders.
  2. Foot Foundations – Building strong, stable feet and ankles.
  3. Hip Foundations – Improving hip mobility, strength, and function.
  4. Custom Strength Training Plans – Structured plans for those who have a specific strength goal, are looking to compliment their current training routine, or who are looking for more individualized help with injuries, pain, or chronic disease.
  5. Custom Endurance Training Plans – Structured plans for runners, cyclists, triathletes and endurance athletes.
Can I do more than one program at a time?

Yes, but it depends on your training load. Some programs can be combined, especially if one focuses on endurance and another on strength. However, stacking multiple high-demand programs (like the Foundations programs which each require 4 days/week commitment) can lead to overtraining. If you’re unsure, reach out and we can help guide you.

Do I need to book in before doing an online program/do an assessment?

No formal booking or assessment is required for remote coaching, but we do include self-testing in many of our programs or recommend adding a remote assessment with us to make sure you’re progressing at the right pace and with the right starting point. If you’re unsure whether a program is right for you, you can reach out for guidance.

Do the programs offer coaching and support?

Yes! While our online programs aren’t one-on-one coaching, we provide in-app support where you can ask questions, get exercise modifications, and receive feedback.

Who is coaching me? Can I pick?

Our online programs are created by our team of trainers, kinesiologists, exercise physiologists, and strength and conditioning coaches to ensure they are effective and evidence-based. What has worked well for us in the past is pairing up a new client with the coach selection we feel is best for the needs of the client. If there’s someone you’re dying to have coach you, do reach out and express that to us, though!

How do I troubleshoot? Who do I contact?

If you run into any issues with the program, app access, or exercises, you can message us through the app or reach out via email us at info@vitalperformancecare.com for quick support.

How do I manage my account/payments?

Your program access and payments are managed through our website. If you need to extend, modify, or cancel your program, just reach out and we’ll help you with the next steps.

Performance Testing FAQs

What do I need to do before the test?

It depends on the test. Generally we recommend:

  1. Hydrating and eating normally up to 1 hour prior. No heavy meal 2 hours prior to test. Light snacks are OK.
  2. Bringing any necessary gear. (e.g., running shoes, lifting gear)
  3. Don’t perform any heavy or unaccustomed training 24-48h prior to testing.
  4. No caffeine 2h prior to testing.
  5. Don’t drink, smoke, or do drugs 6 hours prior to testing.
What do I need to bring/wear?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes appropriate for the test (e.g., runners for a VO2 max test, cleats if doing a sport-specific sprint test). If your test involves lifting, you may want to bring lifting shoes.

What tests are available?

We offer a variety of health and performance tests or assessments including:

  1. New Client Intake Testing – every time we take on a new client, we put together a testing battery that might include some of the tests below, customized to you and your and goals. For some individuals, that might be only balance and movement testing, and for others that might be a more comprehensive assessment. We look forward to meeting you!
  2. VO2 Max Testing – Measuring endurance capacity or fitness for one’s age related to chronic disease and overall health.
  3. Lactate Threshold Testing – Identifying training zones for endurance sports.
  4. Force Plate Testing – Assessing power, asymmetries, and reactive strength. Can be key for return-to-sport decision making.
  5. Isometric Strength Testing (Force Frame) – Measuring joint-specific strength and asymmetries for performance or health.
  6. Running and walking analysis – Running and/or walking and general biomechanics.
  7. Jump Testing – Vertical and broad jump power assessments.
How do I know what I need to test?

If you are unsure what you need tested, please reach out to us and we can help clarify and build your testing battery.

How often should I test?

Testing frequency depends on your training cycle. We generally recommend:

  1. VO2 Max/Lactate Threshold – Every 8-12 weeks to track progress
  2. Force Plate & Strength Testing – Every 6-8 weeks to adjust programming
  3. Speed & Agility Tests – Every 6-12 weeks depending on competition schedule
When do I get my data?

We generally get a very comprehensive assessment report back to you within 5-7 business days.

How do we interpret the results?

Our reports break down the key metrics and include comparisons to norms, training recommendations, and individualized feedback. If needed, we can schedule a consultation to go over the data with you.

Can I share my results with others?

Yes! Your test results are yours to keep, and we can send a copy to your coach, therapist, or trainer if requested.

Careers + Learning FAQs

What continuing education courses do you offer?

All of our continuing education courses can be found HERE.

Do they offer continuing education hours/credits to professionals/clinicians?

Our courses are not currently CEU certified but most governing bodies allow some yearly credits to be accumulated by non-accredited courses.

Are you currently hiring?

Yes! Head to THIS page for more information.

How do I reach out to apply and/or ask further questions?

Email us at info@vitalperformancecare.com. We look forward to hearing from you.

I am a student or individual interested in a career in this field. Do you offer career counselling/shadowing opportunities?

We occasionally do take on interns or offer opportunities for shadowing. Please reach out to us HERE to request more information.

Unsure where to start?

Not sure which service or provider is the best fit? No problem—just shoot us a message and we’ll point you in the right direction.