Vivian C. Zapanta stands as one of the Philippines’ most distinguished figures in movement education — a woman whose mastery, presence, and leadership have elevated the nation’s fitness and Pilates landscape for more than four decades. As a Merrithew® Lead Instructor Trainer in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels, and Injuries & Special Populations, she belongs to an elite global circle and is the first Filipino — and among the first worldwide — to complete all nine Merrithew Specialty Tracks.
Founder of the Vivian Zapanta Pilates Studio and the Merrithew Licensed Training Center Philippines, she has mentored hundreds of instructors who now lead thriving studios across Asia (Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand), the Middle East (Kuwait), Hawaii, the USA, and beyond.
Her distinguished path includes serving as personal trainer to former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, earning the title 1988 Ms. Philippines Bodybuilding Champion, and making history as the only woman to ever lead the Philippine Bodybuilding Federation.
Vivian’s academic foundation is equally exceptional: she graduated CUM LAUDE from the University of Santo Tomas, later becoming a professor there. She is also an ACE Gold-Certified Personal Trainer (1990), ACE Group Fitness Trainer, and Franklin Method® Level 3 Educator, and strengthened by decades of multidisciplinary expertise.
Majestic in presence yet grounded in service, Vivian leads with sovereignty, excellence, and heart — devoted to elevating movement professionals not only in the Philippines, but across the world, to their highest potential.