Instructor Trainer bios

Fabio Brasiliense Fernandes was introduced to the STOTT PILATES^® method in 2007 while completing his degree in Physical Education at the University of São Paulo. What began as a translation project for Merrithew^® quickly evolved into a profound professional commitment to mindful movement. After earning his Full Certification in 2008, he became an Instructor Trainer in 2011 and has been educating instructors across Brazil and, since 2017, internationally.

With a background in translating all Merrithew courses and materials into Portuguese, Fabio developed a teaching style grounded in clarity, structure, and adaptability. He teaches in both Portuguese and English and specializes in helping instructors build autonomy, biomechanical understanding, and confidence in working with diverse bodies. His approach blends technical rigor with simplicity and an evidence-based focus.

Known for his precision, light humor, and ability to simplify complex concepts, he centers his instruction around the guiding principle: "Precision delivered simply, always centered on the person in front of me."

A mountain biking enthusiast for over 30 years, Fabio has competed in major Brazilian events and now rides for enjoyment. When not teaching, he spends time at his farm in the middle of the mountains, maintaining an active, nature-connected lifestyle.

Fang Yu embarked on her journey with STOTT PILATES^® in 2018 during her studies at Lan Pilates. Having personally experienced the transformative benefits of Pilates in resolving her severe cervical pain, she is passionate about helping others achieve similar relief and well-being. Through dedicated learning and teaching, Fang has helped numerous clients alleviate physical pain and improve their posture. The trust and support she receives from her clients continually reinforces her belief in the value and science of STOTT PILATES.

Committed to sharing the joy and health benefits of Pilates, her goal is to help more individuals achieve a healthy and fulfilling life.

Gabriela has always been interested in movement and the arts. She discovered the joy of dance and her passion for performance at the age of 12. Instead of pursuing electromechanical engineering at university as planned, she enrolled in theatre school, becoming an actor and dancer.

In 2003, she was invited to join a prestigious Pilates studio where she met Stefania Michas, who introduced her to the STOTT PILATES^® method. Gabriela fell in love with the contemporary approach of STOTT PILATES. She completed her full certification in Seattle at Bodycenterstudios with Kristi Quinn, becoming part of the first cohort of STOTT PILATES instructors in Mexico.

Since then, she has not stopped sharing her knowledge with clients, helping them improve their quality of life.

In 2016, she was invited to become part of Akrostudio’s Instructor Trainers in Mexico. She later obtained her STOTT PILATES Matwork & Reformer Instructor Trainer certification in 2017 and Total Barre® Instructor Trainer certification in 2018.

She lives in Mexico City, has a handsome boy, and a Floating Instructor Trainer, where she passionately teaches and guides new students to discover the benefits and functional methods of the STOTT PILATES and Total Barre^® programs.

Gabrielle Cahoon is a STOTT PILATES^® Instructor Trainer for Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels, as well as a Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer for Total Barre^™, CORE^™ Athletic Conditioning and Performance Training, and Functional Anatomy.

In addition to her Pilates expertise, Gabrielle is an Integrative Nutrition^® Health Coach, ACE^® Certified Personal Trainer, Foundation Training Level 2 Instructor, and holds certifications in Spinning^® and TRX^®. She earned her degree in Health, Leisure, and Exercise Science from Appalachian State University.

Based in Whitefish, Montana since 2008 (originally from North Carolina), Gabrielle specialize in biomechanics and breathing for chronic pain as well as mentoring other movement professionals to become more effective teachers. After 10 years of owning and operating Studio 48 Pilates and Fitness, Gabrielle now teaches in her home studio as well as for Merrithew Health and Fitness online, throughout the US, and internationally.

Gabrielle creates educational and workout content for her online Pilates studio, My Daily Reform (www.mydailyreform.com), Merrithew Connect, and surf-specific fitness content for Surf with Amigas. Outside the studio, Gabrielle can be found surfing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, or playing the violin.

Gail received her full certification as a STOTT PILATES^® Certified Instructor in 2004 and became an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® specializing in STOTT PILATES in 2008. She is a Gold Certified Pilates Instructor with the Pilates Method Alliance and is also an ACE Certified Personal Trainer. She has complemented her Pilates training with Yoga teaching training courses. In addition to her fitness credentials, Gail holds a B.S. degree in Finance from Santa Clara University in California.