Instructor Trainer bios

Jan became a STOTT PILATES^® Certified Instructor in 2005, and by 2008 had become an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® specializing in STOTT PILATES. She is also a licensed massage therapist, having graduated from the Southeastern Massage School in 1994, where she later returned to teach massage therapy courses. In addition to her Pilates teaching Jan offers myofasial, neuromuscular and cranio-sacral therapy at ABsolute Pilates. Jan is passionate about fitness and education, and is dedicated to teaching Pilates to foster wellness in other’s lives.

Movement and the study of the human body have always been important to Jana. As a child, Jana was passionate about dance, and she trained and performed with the DancEast Young Company in Moncton, New Brunswick. After high school, she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Anatomical Sciences at McGill University and continued her dance studies in the professional training program at The School of Toronto Dance Theatre. While attending The School of Toronto Dance Theatre, Jana was introduced to STOTT PILATES^®, and she immediately noticed that she was stronger and more in control and aware of her body. After completing her training at The School of Toronto Dance Theatre, Jana was fortunate to work professionally with independent choreographers and dance companies in Toronto, including DesRosiers Dance Theatre and the Danny Grossman Dance Company. To complement her dance training, Jana decided to train to become a Pilates instructor as well, and in 2000 she was certified by STOTT PILATES in Matwork and Reformer.

Jana is now a Fully-Certified STOTT PILATES Instructor, having completed training in Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chairs, and Barrels and Injuries and Special Populations. Recently, Jana was chosen to become an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^®, specializing in STOTT PILATES. She is also a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor and has completed a 200 hour yoga teacher training. Additionally, Jana also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education and recently completed her Master’s degree in Inclusive Education. Jana truly believes that Pilates is for every body!

Jane was first introduced to STOTT PILATES^® back in 2014 after suffering from scoliosis. By practicing STOTT PILATES, a full-body, systemic approach to exercise, she miraculously improved her posture and body movement. Amazed by her progress, she decided to pursue a career as an instructor to share and promote the benefits of the STOTT PILATES method with others.

Now a Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer specializing in STOTT PILATES Matwork and Reformer, Jane teaches with passion to inspire and guide her students to successfully obtain their certifications. In addition, she teaches with devotion and empathy to influence her clients to achieve their physical goals.

As methodologies continue to evolve and adapt, Jane is constantly studying and learning to enhance her professional knowledge of STOTT PILATES in order to thoughtfully apply new research and practices to her courses.

Janet has been involved in many facets of the fitness industry since the 1980’s, including aerobics, running; strength and conditioning, as well as Sports and Remedial Neuromuscular massage therapy. She is a certified Breast Cancer Rehab Exercise Specialist (Pink Ribbon Program). She discovered the benefits of Pilates following a back injury in 2000, which led to the decision to embark on a new career. Janet first became a Certified Instructor for STOTT PILATES^® in 2004 and then an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^®specializing in STOTT PILATES in 2010. Janet enjoys teaching the method to a broad client base, from rehab to elite athletes. She is well known for her passion and enthusiasm, which successfully helps her clients achieve their goals, including improved performance, pain relief and an increased feeling of well-being.

With a passion for movement and an eye for detail, Janine is always looking to help others lead healthier and fulfilling lives. In 1992 she completed a degree in Physical Education and in 1994-95 she added a series of Personal Training specialization certifications. Looking for a smarter training method to help her clients, in 1999 Janine completed first the Polestar Mat and then the STOTT PILATES^® Mat and Reformer Level 2 Instructor Training in Toronto. In 2000 she completed the CCB training level 2, and then in 2001 she completed the ISP and her full Certification Exam. In 2004, Janine became an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® offering IMP and IR Teacher Trainings throughout Europe. Janine has also completed a Golf Performance Instructor Certification through the Titleist Performance Institute and a 200 hr Yoga Teacher Certification with Nicki Doane and the Yoga Alliance. Janine now lives and works in Kelowna, BC and can be reached at janine@pilatesfunction.com.