Instructor Trainers

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.

Gayle became a fully certified STOTT PILATES^® instructor in 2000 then went on to become an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® specializing in STOTT PILATES in 2003. Gayle holds a B. A. in dance from Michigan State University and performed professionally as a leading dancer with Harbinger Dance Company for 12 years. She enjoys mentoring Pilates students enrolled in Equilibrium’s comprehensive training program: helping them to determine the best ways to make Pilates effective for themselves and their future clients. She is very passionate about helping her clients stay active throughout their lives. Gayle is a Breast Cancer Post-Rehab Specialist, certified through the Pink Ribbon Program. She is trained in the Gyrotonic Expansion System, TRX Suspension System and TRX Rip Training. She is also a MELT Hand and Foot Instructor.

Georgia’s movement career began in classical and contemporary dance, she was initially introduced to Pilates to compliment her dance career. Moving onto complete STOTT PILATES^® Matwork course in 2003.

Georgia holds a STOTT PILATES Comprehensive full certification. Over her career, she has become known for her exceptional attention to detail, strong bio mechanical understanding, and ability to tailor sessions to each client—supporting long-term, meaningful health outcomes and building a thriving practice specialising in pain management and rehabilitation.

In 2019, Georgia became a STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer, allowing her to share her extensive expertise with aspiring instructors both locally and internationally. She is recognised for her clear, adaptable teaching style and consistently strong feedback from host centres locally & across Asia. Alongside teaching courses, she runs a boutique studio in the inner south of Melbourne, where she continues to provide studio and private sessions rooted in the same standard of excellence that defines her work.

Gidget began her career in movement while performing in musical theater. Her love of dance gave way to a passion for fitness. She was a personal trainer for many years before she turned to the more mindful movements of yoga and Pilates. She opened her Pilates studio in the Dallas area in 2003. From 2012 to early 2018, she owned the Merrithew^® Licensed Training Center in the Dallas area. In 2016, Gidget was designated a Merrithew Lead Instructor Trainer. This has been the honor of her career. She considers teaching and educating her gift to give, and actively mentors students both during and after they complete their education programs.

Gigi is one-half of the heartbeat of Gigi’s Pilates Studio & Personal Training. A Des Moines native and fitness expert with more than 18 years’ experience, Gigi’s passion for fitness began early when she earned her Bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Iowa State University. Since then she’s added certifications as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor from the American Council on Exercise (ACE), the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA), and the International Sports Conditioning Association (ISCA). Gigi also is an Instructor Trainer for Merrithew^® specializing in STOTT PILATES^® and is a certified breast cancer exercise specialist with the Pink Ribbon Program.

Greta Martin, with a Masters degree in Health Education specializing in integrated medicine, discovered Pilates in 2007 during her recovery from an injury. Recognizing its immediate benefits, particularly in alleviating pain caused by scoliosis, she fully embraced the practice, making it an essential component of her fitness regimen. Greta's dedication to Pilates significantly enhanced her performance in running, triathlons, and cycling events.

In 2006, Greta relocated to Utah for a prestigious role as a Bone Marrow Transplant coordinator, a position she deeply cherished. In 2013, she obtained her STOTT PILATES^® certification through Pacific NW Pilates in Portland, demonstrating her commitment to expanding her knowledge and skills. Driven by her passion for continuous learning, Greta achieved the distinction of becoming a STOTT PILATES^® Instructor Trainer in 2022. She is thrilled to represent forward-thinking companies like Merrithew^™ in her instructional endeavors.