Natasha Tilstra
Enrolled at the University of Lethbridge in 2021, taking a B.Sc of Kinesiology.
Natasha Tilstra is a fifth-year undergraduate student pursuing a B.Sc. in Kinesiology at the University of Lethbridge, where she enrolled in 2021. She is passionate about health, wellness, and human movement, and plans to continue her education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy after graduating in the spring of 2026.
Throughout her time at the University of Lethbridge, Natasha has developed a strong interest in inclusive sport. She helped launch Kin in the Kommunity, an initiative dedicated to creating equal opportunities in sport and raising awareness about the importance of accessible, inclusive environments. Her commitment to inclusivity extends beyond campus, as she volunteers with Canadian Adaptive Snowsports, supporting individuals of varying abilities in experiencing the joy of snow sports and community building.
Academically, Natasha has earned a place on the Dean’s Honour List each semester, a success she credits to the University’s smaller class sizes and the meaningful connections she has built with her professors. She has also gained teaching experience as a Teaching Assistant for Kinesiology 1000, where she contributed to research evaluating physiotherapy interventions for children with Down Syndrome.
In the summer of 2025, Natasha worked under Dr. Arash Khassetarash in the Engineering and Human Performance Laboratory. Her research explored the relationship between ground reaction forces during running and wearable device data. During this she contributed to the development of a machine learning algorithm that predicts forces acting on the body while running. This project allowed Natasha to combine her academic knowledge with her personal passion for running, the results hold the potential to improve performance in running athletes.
Outside of her academic and volunteer commitments, Natasha enjoys running through the coulees and skiing at Castle Mountain. Her passion for endurance sports continues to inspire her interest in biomechanics, performance, and rehabilitation.