We asked out M.SC. intern to tell us a little bit about himself.
I was born in Pune, Maharashtra, India. A city known for its rich history, education and cultural depth. Growing up in this vibrant environment shaped my early curiosity and laid the foundation for my journey in life and healthcare. My formative years were spent at Bhonsala Military School in Nashik, where discipline, physical training and mental toughness were part of daily life. It was there I discovered my love for sports, adventure and structure. I earned medals in both rifle shooting and horse-riding, experiences that strengthened my focus and determination.
Choosing to pursue physiotherapy was a turning point. I completed my Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy from Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth in Pune. I developed a deep interest in musculoskeletal and neurological rehabilitation, particularly for patients with Parkinson’s and stroke. During internships I saw how guided movement and rehabilitation could restore function and hope.
Now in Christchurch, I am interning at the NeuroGym in Bishopdale with Exercise as Medicine. I have gained hands-on experience in conducting assessments, planning interventions and tailoring programmes to improve balance, gait and posture. I have seen non-ambulatory clients progress to walking independently, and those with balance impairments regain confidence in their daily mobility. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for exercise as a form of medicine precise, measurable and empowering. I have also witnessed the role that social interaction and having fun plays in the recovery process.
Academically, I am currently pursuing a Master of Sports Science at the University of Canterbury (UC), a university renowned for its emphasis on research-led teaching and innovation in sports performance, biomechanics and rehabilitation sciences. At UC, I have had the opportunity to deepen my understanding of exercise physiology, motor learning, sports injury management, and evidence-based clinical practice. The programme has equipped me with a strong scientific foundation and exposed me to advanced technologies in movement analysis and rehabilitation.
As part of my academic journey, I am preparing for a research project focused on community-based exercise interventions for individuals with neurological conditions specifically evaluating functional outcomes such as balance, gait, and strength in stroke and Parkinson’s patients using HUR Smart Balance technology. This project aims to bridge the gap between clinical physiotherapy and exercise science by quantifying the impact of tailored programmes like those used at Exercise as Medicine. Through this, I hope to contribute to a growing body of research that supports exercise as a critical tool in neurorehabilitation, helping shape future clinical guidelines and community health initiatives.
From Pune to New Zealand, my mission stays the same: to help people move better, live stronger, and recover with dignity.
Having Pritam as part of our team at the NeuroGym has been a delight. In addition to his physiotherapy knowledge, Pritam has an iron will couched in a ready smile that has endeared him to everyone. Tim W
