About MERGE Performance Institute

Where science meets sweat—performance, fitness, sports medicine, and education converge in one transformative training experience.

Our cutting-edge wellness facility is engineered for results. Every program is meticulously designed by our elite team, then executed by certified trainers, coaches, and physical therapists to deliver the precise outcomes you need—and deserve.

The 4 Pillars of MERGE

Fitness High-energy group classes, one-on-one training, and personal consulting to crush your goals in an electric atmosphere.

Performance Evidence-based strength & conditioning for youth, high school, college, and pro athletes—built to dominate.

Sports Medicine Hands-on assessments, injury prevention, and targeted therapy to keep you in the game and moving at your peak.

Education Workshops, camps, and seminars on nutrition, footwear, running form, youth sports, and beyond—knowledge that powers progress.

Meet the Founders

Jim Romagna & Jason Meyer “Human performance isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.” As former athletes, coaches, and leaders in sports performance and fitness, we’re fueled by passion and grounded in experience. Proud Dubuque locals, we’re invested in elevating our community and the region.

Jim Romagna | Co-Owner Hometown: Wauwatosa, WI Education

• B.A. English Writing – Loras College (1992)
• M.S. Physical Education (2003)
• Ed.D. Educational Leadership – National Louis University (2020)

Career Highlights

• Head Strength & Conditioning Coach – Loras College & Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL)
• Full-time Faculty & Department Head – University of Dubuque
• 10-year tenure with Fighting Saints: 2 championships, NHL player development, playoffs every season

Athletic Legacy

• All-conference football & track captain (Loras)
• One of only 7 college RBs to rush for 1,000+ yards in 4 straight seasons
• 2018 Loras College Athletic Hall of Fame inductee
• 14-year competitive bodybuilder: Mr. Iowa, Mr. Venice Beach, multiple top-5 world finishes
• Featured in Muscle & Fitness, author of “Live Fit” column (Telegraph Herald)

Certifications: CSCS, CPT | Youth coaching veteran | President, Dubuque Independent Football League

Jason Meyer | Co-Owner Hometown: Dubuque, IA Education

• B.S. Natural Science – University of Northern Iowa (1995)
• Master of Physical Therapy – University of Iowa (1998)

Career Highlights

• Founder & Owner – Dubuque Physical Therapy (2008–present)
• Opened MERGE Performance Institute (2016) within expanded JFK clinic
• Specializes in orthopedic rehab, sports medicine, workers’ comp, and running injuries

Athletic Legacy

• 2x All-Conference runner (UNI) – 3,000m to 10,000m
• All-Academic honoree | Post-college racer (800m to marathon)
• Assistant Track Coach (UNI, 1998–2008) – coached Drake Relays qualifiers & Dubuque’s first 800m state champion

Certifications: ASTYM (soft tissue), FMS/SFMA Level 1

MERGE isn’t a gym. It’s a movement. Train smarter. Heal faster. Perform stronger.

Welcome to the future of human potential.