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  • Workshops | Trainor Movement Co.

    Workshops These workshops are designed for STOTT PILATES students at varying levels. Whether you are looking to prepare for an upcoming course, or a future exam, there is a workshop for you. Only STOTT PILATES Workshops are eligible for CECs. STOTT PILATES Workshops These workshops are 2 hours long and worth 0.2 CECs each. $380 for 1 workshop Group Matwork Classes: Teaching Skills and Programming Choices Teaching group Pilates classes can be challenging. How do you ensure all your clients get a good workout safely in a group situation? This workshop, developed by the Merrithew® team, focuses on the programming, cueing, and correction skills you need to safely progress your clients through a series of Matwork classes. Learn to keep the class moving while giving individual corrections, choose exercises that make sense in a group scenario, and offer modifications and transitions that work. December 6th, 2025 12:30pm - 2:30pm Reformer and Cardio-Tramp Barre Workout Barre training is taken to a new level in this exclusive workshop designed by the Merrithew® team. Develop stamina, control, cardiovascular fitness and endurance using the innovative Cardio-Tramp Rebounder with the Reformer. The Cardio-Tramp serves as a sturdy barre support as well as a resilient platform for rebounding work, while the Reformer provides programming options for upper and lower body strengthening with core support. Experience how this program presents elements of dance and flexibility training with the solid foundations of STOTT PILATES in a workout like no other. December 6th, 2025 3pm - 5pm

  • Meet the Team | Trainor Movement Co.

    Vancouver's BEST certified instructors. We strive to make every person who walks through our doors feel welcome and comfortable. We are passionate about what we teach and want to share those passions with each and every one of you! Meet the Team. We strive to make every person who walks through our doors feel welcome and comfortable. Our team offers a variety of group session types, and opportunities for private, duet, and trio sessions. We are passionate about what we teach and want to share those passions with each and every one of you! Kat Trainor (she/her) Director, Senior Pilates Instructor Katherine began her career in movement with dance training at age four. In her early teens Kat trained at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet school and the school of Alberta Ballet. In 2015, she danced with Lamondance contemporary company in North Vancouver; and then for two seasons with Decidedly Jazz Dancework’s Professional Training Program in Calgary. She has become captivated by the art of dance across many genres, and will find a love for any style that connects her to music. Kat combined her love for movement and dance with anatomy to find Pilates. After finishing her Functional Anatomy and Intensive Mat course in Calgary, she moved back to Vancouver to complete her full STOTT PILATES training. After completing her certification, Kat was hired to work for Vancouver's only STOTT PILATES Education Centre. Since then, she has completed a number of additional courses and workshops to further her Pilates and anatomy knowledge. Kat opened Trainor Movement Co, Vancouver's only STOTT PILATES Education Centre, in 2021. She is passionate about mentoring student instructors through the "Ivy League" of Pilates education. Kat is working towards her specializations in post-rehabilitative conditioning, Pilates for ageing adults, and pre/post-natal Pilates. As a Pilates instructor she strives to help people reach their full physical potential. As someone with multiple chronic illnesses, she endeavours to have her studio be a place where people of any ability level feel comfortable practising Pilates. When not in the studio, Kat can be found cuddling her basset hound Rosie, or dancing in her living room. STOTT PILATES certificate with specialties in: Pilates for hEDS and other hypermobility disorders Pilates for people with disabilities Pilates for people with POTS Flexion free exercise Shoulder complex stability and exercise Functional anatomy Pelvic Floor exercise - Franklin Method Postural training & optimization Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels, and small props Mini-Stability ball workout Pilates for Dancers Pilates for Golfers Pilates for ageing adults Post-rehabilitation training for injuries & special populations Kat is available for group sessions and privates Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at TMCo. Steph Laoun (she/they) Pilates Instructor Trainer Steph is a fully certified STOTT PILATES® instructor with a passion for helping others—a passion that truly shines through her teaching. Her classes are fun and accessible. You'll leave her sessions feeling inspired, empowered, and equipped to move your body mindfully, healthfully and with ease. You may even find yourself carrying this practice outside of the studio and within your everyday life. Steph comes from a high level background in tennis. They got into Pilates to rehabilitate a chronic injury that was preventing them from playing and competing. Pilates allowed them to re-access the sport they are most passionate about. They found success in the methodology, and are eager to share their training and expertise with you. Their hope is that it allows you to achieve your movement goals, as Pilates did for them. Steph specializes in performance training for athletes, injury prevention for all bodies, surgery rehabilitation, as well as pre and post natal Pilates for all birthing humans. Steph is our STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer, who leads the IMP and IR Education in studio. Nadia Zimina (she/her) Administrative Assistant Originally from Russia, Nadia has been living in Vancouver for almost a decade and is currently on her journey to becoming a certified STOTT PILATES® instructor. She's working on her practicum and also works at the front desk at our studio. With a background in ballroom, burlesque dance and aerobics phase back in school, movement has always been a big part of her life. She fell in love with Pilates about five years ago, thanks to the energy and passion of her Spanish instructor, and decided to turn that passion into a career. Outside the studio, you can find Nadia walking her Shiba Inu Kiwi and probably contemplating her next trip. She's excited to keep learning, growing, and helping others feel strong, connected, and confident through Pilates. Caitlin Ryan (she/her) Senior Pilates Instructor Caitlin began her career in Pilates in Vancouver in 2005, under the tutelage of Master Trainer, Marta Hernandez. Caitlin completed her Mat Pilates certification the same year, and started her comprehensive training and apprenticeship immediately after, completing her exams with PhysicalMind Institute in England in 2007. In 2006 Caitlin left Vancouver for Paris, France, and began teaching Pilates full-time. While living in Paris, Caitlin also completed a Yoga Teacher Training program, and was able to study briefly under Pilates Elder, Mary Bowen, as well as other Master trainers in methods such as Gyrotonic, yoga, Feldenkrais, and of course Pilates. Caitlin then spent a few years teaching in the birth place of Pilates: New York City. This gave her the opportunity to work with numerous teachers of various lineages, focusing especially on Classical Pilates with many Ramona trained instructors. After NYC, Caitlin moved to Argentina, where she was able to teach English language classes to other non-spanish-speaking immigrants, while also attempting to learn the language! After Argentina, it was on to Sydney, Australia. In Sydney Caitlin worked at a number of Pilates studios, one of which was a STOTT PILATES training studio where she was able to go further into her Pilates studies with multiple certificate courses. Caitlin is a mother to two young boys. After almost 16 years teaching Pilates, Caitlin still considers herself a life-long learner, and looks forward to continuously broaden her knowledge of the body and the method. She recently returned back to Vancouver, and is thrilled to be living and working in East Van. Certified Pilates Instructor with Specialties in: Pre-natal Pilates Pilates for Osteoporosis Pilates for Athletic Conditioning Functional Anatomy Xtend Barre Yoga tune-up Body Rolling MELT method BA in psychology from UBC 16 years teaching experience Caitlin is available Monday, Wednesday, and Saturdays for group classes and private sessions at TMCo Julian Trainor (he/they) Administrative Assistant Jules is the administrative assistant of your dreams. Currently in school to become a barber, they are in the process of crafting a life that blends creativity, care, and community. Whether they're managing studio logistics or helping clients feel seen and supported, they do it all with grace and good humour. Catherine Murray (she/her) Senior Pilates Instructor Catherine came to Pilates following her career as a dance artist and arts administrator. It has been a natural transition to take her love of movement and the details of the human body and relay those to her clients through Pilates. Catherine is a fully certified STOTT PILATES instructor having completed her training at Full Circle Studio in Vancouver. She has also completed training in Pain Reprocessing Therapy which provides tools for dealing with chronic pain. Her goal as an instructor is to help others connect to their bodies and find more range and ease of motion to take into daily life. Catherine earned her BFA from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) in 2005, followed by her MFA in Choreography from York University in 2013. Her graduate degree research focused around using contemporary choreography as a tool for social change. Catherine is a Co-Founder of Project: Humanity – an arts/theatre organization that uses the arts to raise social awareness with a strong emphasis on community service. She ran the company with her partners for eight years in Toronto before stepping back when she moved to Vancouver. Catherine has over 15 years of teaching experience in a variety of forms and environments. She has taught dance in studios and schools; theatre and improvisation in the youth shelter system; group fitness in gyms and community centres; and leadership and creativity in business settings. Catherine returned from Toronto to Vancouver where she grew up, and lives in East Van with her husband and two young sons. Catherine is available for group sessions and privates Thursdays and Fridays at TMCo. Tasha Thomas (she/her) Pilates Instructor Pilates is for everyone! Tasha travelled worldwide professionally skating with ice shows for over a decade and naturally gravitated towards Pilates post tour to correct the imbalances and long term impacts of skating. She loves how Pilates can benefit people of all ages and fitness backgrounds: As a main source of mindful movement exercise, or as a complement to cross training in the gym. As a fully certified STOTT PILATES instructor, Tasha is excited to help clients build foundational movements and exercises that provide the basis for longevity. As she deepens her practice in Pilates she is interested in further pursuing opposing spectrums of senior care and athletic conditioning. Tasha is passionate about helping clients build better functional movement patterns while challenging their range of mobility and stability. She might be a little more quirky and animated in the studio as you get to know her; and she promises to give you a great experience. So come join Tasha as we explore all the different avenues of Pilates and experience the benefits of improved body alignment, increased strength, endurance and recovery practices! Book with Tasha on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

  • FAQ | Trainor Movement Co.

    Here are some of your frequently asked questions: Are all classes online? I've never done Pilates before, where do I start? Frequently Asked Questions I've never done pilates before. Where do I start? We are proud of you for trying something new! It is studio policy to start with at least one private session. When working one-on-one with an instructor you will be well taken care of. Your instructor will be able to show you the ropes, and help create a Pilates routine that suits your anatomy. We have options available for new clients to try an introductory Pilates session. Choose "Private Session (55min) when booking, and select your intro offer for payment. It is studio policy that you complete a minimum of one private session before attending any group sessions. What is Pilates? Book a Session Do you offer Pilates education for students looking to become instructors? Yes! Trainor Movement Co. is a STOTT PILATES Host Centre . We offer courses and workshops year round for new students looking to start their Pilates education, as well as existing certified instructors looking to fulfill CECs. View Workshop/Course Schedule What is the cancellation policy? We have a strict 24 hour cancellation policy. To cancel or reschedule any booking, you must give at least 24 hours notice. All cancellations made within 24 hours of the appointment are considered late-cancels, and you will be charged in full for the appointment being missed. No returns. No refunds. No exceptions. All sales are final. If you give at least 24 hours notice of your need to cancel, any payment made will be saved to your account for future use. If you have booked online, and cancel an appointment without a payment attached, your card on file will be charged accordingly. What should I wear? Whatever you feel comfortable in. Avoid zippers or buttons if you can. Socks or bare feet - no shoes on the equipment. Some people like leggings, some like sweatpants. We have tee shirts, tank tops, and sweat pants available for purchase in studio if needed. There are also two changing rooms located in the back of the studio if you wish to change when you arrive. Where can i park? There is plenty of street parking available on Union street in front of the studio. There is also street parking along Main street between Prior and Union, as well as along E Georgia street and Gore. Be sure to bring a loonie for the meter! We are also located directly on the Adanac bikeway, and are very close to the Main Street skytrain station. What should I bring? You are welcome to bring your own water bottle and towel. You are welcome to wear a mask during your class, and we have disposable masks available at the front desk if you forget. Can I drop in and do my own workout? Yes! Make use of our state of the art Pilates equipment on your own time. Personalize your own workout on your own schedule. You must complete minimum 5 private sessions with an instructor prior to beginning self-guided sessions. This is to keep you safe on the equipment, and to start to build a program with an instructor. Subject to studio approval and availability. Self-Guided Pricing Selfies

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Blog Posts (31)

  • Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor

    Becoming a STOTT PILATES® certified instructor is a rewarding journey that will deepen your understanding of anatomy, movement, and holistic fitness. With Pilates' growing popularity, this certification can set you apart, offering you the opportunity to teach a highly respected method of mindful movement. STOTT PILATES® is one of the most recognized methods in the Pilates world, offering comprehensive and sought-after training. Whether you’re an aspiring instructor or looking to expand your expertise, STOTT PILATES® offers a comprehensive education rooted in contemporary Pilates principles. Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor that will help you achieve your certification and why Trainor Movement Co  is the perfect place to begin your training. Step 1: Choose Your Programs STOTT PILATES® offers a variety of certification tracks, depending on your interests: Matwork Certification Reformer Certification Full Certification (Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels) At Trainor Movement Co, we guide you through selecting the program that aligns with your career goals. Whether you're looking to focus on matwork or become a comprehensive instructor, we have the courses and expert trainers to help you succeed. Step 2: Complete The Prerequisites To enroll in the STOTT PILATES® certification program, certain prerequisites are required. These include a basic knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and fitness. Don't worry if you don't have these yet— Trainor Movement Co  offers the Intro to Anatomy Course and Fundamentals   Workshops  to ensure you’re fully prepared before starting your journey. Requirements for IMP Matwork and IR Reformer courses: Intro to Anatomy Course; Or working knowledge of functional anatomy​ minimum 30 hours participation in Pilates classes/workouts (Highly recommended) 3+ years teaching movement, fitness, and/or dance. Applicants with a strong history of Pilates participation and/or experience instructing students/clients in another field may also be considered. Requirements for Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels courses: Completion of either IMP Matwork, or IR Reformer Step 3: Register and Complete Your Course Training Once you’ve chosen your track, and applied online, the next step is to complete the instructor training courses. This training includes learning the STOTT PILATES® six basic principles, mastering a wide range of exercises, and developing teaching skills. Trainor Movement Co  offers a structured intensive schedule, and in-depth support throughout your training. Our courses are led by experienced STOTT PILATES® certified Instructor Trainers from across Canada and the USA, and provide real-time feedback to help refine your technique and teaching skills. Step 4: Practice Hours and Supplemental Workshops After your coursework, you'll need to complete observation, physical review, and practice teaching hours before you’re eligible to take the exam. This step is essential to reinforce what you’ve learned. It ensures that you are not only familiar with the material but have had hands-on experience applying it. At Trainor Movement Co , we provide a student discount for 6 months after each course is completed. You will also have access to student mentorships and workshops  to guide you through these practical hours. In addition to the core training, continuing education is crucial for growth as a Pilates instructor. At Trainor Movement Co , we offer a variety of supplemental workshops  to enhance your knowledge. These workshops include Programming Skills, Exam Prep, Postural Analysis, Pilates Principles, Anatomy, and more ensuring you graduate with a well-rounded education. Step 5: Prepare for Your Exam Once you’ve completed the required hours, the final step is the certification exam. The exam assesses your teaching skills, knowledge of the exercises, and understanding of the STOTT PILATES® principles. In the practical exam, you’ll demonstrate exercises while providing cueing and modifications to your clients. The written portion tests your knowledge of anatomy, exercise mechanics, and teaching methodology. Many aspiring instructors practice teaching family and friends or work in apprentice positions to gain confidence before the exam. With opportunities for mock exams and anatomy tutoring at Trainor Movement Co , you'll feel confident and prepared to pass.  Step 6: Maintain Your Certification Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll receive your STOTT PILATES® certification. Now, you can officially begin your career as a Pilates instructor. You can teach at gyms, wellness centers, or open your own Pilates studio. Building a client base and expanding your skills with workshops and advanced courses will help you grow in the industry. STOTT PILATES® instructors are required to complete Continuing Education Credits (CECs) to keep their certification valid. This ongoing education ensures that you stay up-to-date with the latest Pilates methods and innovations. Read more about CECs on the Merrithew website . Why Choose Trainor Movement Co? Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor STOTT PILATES v2Max Rehab Reformer Prerequisite Courses : We offer the essential courses you need to start your STOTT PILATES® journey. Supplemental Workshops : Gain access to workshops that enhance your skills and make you stand out as an instructor. Education Support : Our experienced education team is here to support you every step of the way, with mentorship feedback, and education planning to help you excel. Student Discounts : Enjoy exclusive student discounts  on services and studio rentals for six months  after completing your course, helping you continue your education affordably. Start your STOTT PILATES® instructor training at Trainor Movement Co  and step into a fulfilling career where you can inspire others and elevate their fitness journey.

  • Why STOTT Pilates?

    Discover the Benefits of a Proven Method If you’re looking for a Pilates practice that is both effective and accessible, then STOTT Pilates might be the perfect fit for you. At Trainor Movement Co., we’re proud to offer this innovative and highly respected Pilates method, which combines the classic principles of Pilates with modern principles of exercise science. But what exactly makes STOTT Pilates stand out? Let’s dive in. What is STOTT Pilates? STOTT Pilates is a contemporary take on traditional Pilates, developed by Moira Stott-Merrithew in the late 1980s. It incorporates the principles of anatomy and biomechanics, ensuring that each exercise is not only safe but also highly effective. The method is designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles, improve posture, and enhance overall flexibility, all while promoting spinal health. Unlike traditional Pilates, which may emphasize the abdominals and core, STOTT Pilates integrates a full-body approach. The exercises are designed to be adaptable, making it suitable for all fitness levels and body types. Why STOTT Pilates is a Game-Changer Scientifically-Backed Methodology:  STOTT Pilates is grounded in principles of anatomy and biomechanics. This means every movement is designed with your body’s natural alignment in mind. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced Pilates practitioner, the method's focus on proper technique and form reduces the risk of injury while enhancing muscle engagement. Perfect for All Fitness Levels:  One of the key benefits of STOTT Pilates is its adaptability. Whether you’re new to fitness, recovering from an injury, or looking to push your limits, STOTT Pilates offers modifications to suit your individual needs. The exercises can be done on the mat or with specialized equipment, such as the Reformer, which helps you work at your own pace. Posture Improvement & Core Strength:  STOTT Pilates emphasizes core engagement, helping to strengthen the muscles that support your spine. As you progress through the exercises, you’ll notice an improvement in your posture and a reduction in back pain, a common complaint for many people due to poor posture and a sedentary lifestyle. Increased Flexibility & Mobility:  Flexibility isn’t just about being able to touch your toes - it’s also about joint health and mobility. STOTT Pilates helps improve flexibility in a safe and controlled manner, ensuring you can move through your daily activities with ease and grace. Mind-Body Connection:  Pilates is known for fostering a strong mind-body connection, and STOTT Pilates takes this even further. The method encourages mindful movement and breathwork, allowing you to focus on each exercise and truly connect with your body. This focus not only enhances your physical well-being but can also reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and mental clarity. Results That Last:  With consistent practice, STOTT Pilates helps you build long-term strength and endurance, creating lasting changes in both your body and mindset. Unlike quick-fix workout trends, STOTT Pilates focuses on sustainable fitness, allowing you to build a strong foundation that supports your body for years to come. Why Choose Trainor Movement Co. for STOTT Pilates? At Trainor Movement Co., we are committed to providing the highest quality Pilates experience. Our instructors are certified Pilates professionals, dedicated to guiding you through each movement with precision and care. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned Pilates practitioner, we offer a supportive and welcoming environment where you can achieve your fitness goals. Our studio is equipped with state-of-the-art STOTT Pilates equipment, including Reformers, Stability Chairs, and more, to ensure you get the most out of each session. Plus, we offer both private and group classes, so you can choose the experience that fits your needs. Ready to Experience STOTT Pilates? If you’re ready to experience the benefits of STOTT Pilates for yourself, book your first class at Trainor Movement Co. in Vancouver’s Chinatown today. Whether you’re looking to improve your strength, flexibility, posture, or overall well-being, STOTT Pilates can help you get there. Join us and discover how Pilates can transform your fitness journey!

  • Your First Pilates Job: What to Know Before You Say Yes

    Landing your first teaching job is one of the most exciting steps in your Pilates career. You’ve invested in training, you’re eager to share what you’ve learned, and you’re ready to help people move better. But before you accept an offer, it’s worth pausing to understand the type of work arrangement you’re stepping into. Employee vs. Contractor Pay Pilates instructors are typically hired in one of two ways: as employees  or as independent contractors.  The difference matters. Employees  usually earn $20–$40 per hour , depending on certification and experience. Contractors  are often paid $26–$52 per hour because they don’t get the protections and benefits that employees receive. While the higher wage looks tempting, it comes with trade-offs: Contractors only earn when clients book them. No vacation pay, no sick days, no benefits. You’re responsible for handling your own taxes and deductions. You only get paid once a month. Employees, by contrast, are paid for their scheduled hours (even if a client cancels) and often receive vacation pay, sick leave, and sometimes health benefits. For new instructors who are still building confidence and consistency, that stability can make a huge difference. What to Ask in an Interview When you’re applying for a teaching position, don’t be shy about asking direct questions. A good studio will respect that you’re informed and professional. Consider asking: Am I being hired as an employee or a contractor? What happens if a client cancels, will I still be paid? What happens if nobody books me, will I still be paid? Are benefits like vacation pay or sick days included? How many hours can I expect to teach each week? Is there mentorship or training support for new instructors? What to Look For in a Studio Beyond pay, look for a workplace that: Respects your time  by compensating you fairly. Provides stability  so you can focus on teaching, not scrambling for income. Follows the law —in BC, you cannot legally be a contractor if you only work at a single location under that studio’s schedule and direction. Invests in your growth  with support and mentorship. The Bottom Line Your first Pilates job sets the tone for your career. While contractor pay may look appealing, the security of being an employee often outweighs the short-term bump in hourly wages...especially when you’re new. Wherever you land, make sure you choose a studio that values you as much as you value your clients. Your First Pilates Job: What to Know Before You Say Yes Your First Pilates Job: What to Know Before You Say Yes

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