Daniel Zackodnik

Ascent Health & Sport Therapy

4530 Quesnay Wood Dr SW, #110, Calgary, AB, T3E 7J3

Daniel is a physiotherapist and professional firefighter in Calgary – he’s passionate about helping everyone, no matter their pain or predicament! Daniel’s enthusiasm for optimizing health and well-being began during his university studies, where he served as the lead student therapist for the Cross Country and Track & Field teams and as a strength and conditioning intern supporting multiple varsity programs. After experiencing firsthand the positive impact that movement and health can have on people’s lives, Daniel completed his master’s degree and expanded his outreach in sports medicine, providing on-field medical assessments for provincially and nationally competing athletes in gymnastics and tennis. Drawing from over a decade of combined education and clinical experience treating a wide range of populations and injuries, Daniel believes that targeted movement, manual therapy, and evidence-based load management form the foundation for long-term recovery. His approach integrates soft-tissue techniques (including massage and joint mobilizations) to relieve pain and improve mobility, alongside corrective exercise, functional strengthening, and personalized education to empower each client’s recovery journey and build resilience for life. Beyond the clinic, Daniel also serves as a firefighter with a special interest in the tactical athlete. His dual perspective as a first responder and clinician uniquely positions him to understand the physical and mental demands of high-performance professions. He applies this insight to his practice, helping rehabilitate and develop injury prevention strategies that promote occupational resilience for first responders and everyday active individuals alike. Outside of work, Daniel is a year-round outdoor enthusiast. In the summer, he can be found paddling an outrigger canoe or dragon boating on the reservoir, and in the winter, cross-country skiing with the Foothills Nordic Ski Club. He’s also a recreational runner, CrossFit regular, and active FireFit Championships competitor.