instructors

emmie li

Emmie was the first in Canada to be awarded the prestigious Gold Level Teacher Certification from The Pilates Method Alliance (based in the US and recognized as the most sought-after certification in the world). She is the first and currently only BCRPA Trainer of Fitness Leaders in Pilates.

As the studio owner and Program Director with over 10 years teaching experience, Emmie has successfully helped many participants achieve their health and wellness goals.

She studied privately with the legendary Mary Bowen, who is one of only five remaining Pilates elders trained by Joe and Clara Pilates themselves. Emmie graduated from the renowned The Pilates Center of Boulder, CO, known as the 'Harvard' of all institutions. She also completed its Master's Program in the spring of 2008.

In addition to her Pilates training, Emmie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from SFU, where she studied Sociology and Kinesiology.

She utilizes her knowledge in Pilates, Yoga, Body Rolling, Jazz and Ballet to develop the most comprehensive programs for her clients. Their results are flattened abdominals, body awareness and an overall sense of wellbeing.

Emmie has been featured in the "Burnaby Now" and on CFUN Radio as a leading expert. She is sponsored by Lululemon Athletica. Look for her in Jaime Kowal's popular photography book, "Waking up the Westcoast: Healers and Visionaries" and her own Pilates instructional DVD, "Journey on the Mat".

nadja swetnam

Nadja graduated from the most prestigious The Pilates Center Teacher's Training Program in Boulder, Colorado, known as the 'Harvard' of all schools. She successfully completed close to 1000 hours of apprenticeship and hands-on applied training in this rigorous program. She is, therefore, known for her depth, impeccable teaching skills and refined knowledge.

Nadja came to Pilates through her background in dance. She was a professional dancer in Europe for 5 years. After suffering from chronic back, hip, and ankle problems caused by the wear and tear of a professional performing career in Europe, she is so happy to have found a method to maintain her body in a balanced, nurturing, and pain free way.

When she encountered the Pilates method in 2003, it was love at first sight!

Since graduating from The Pilates Center in Boulder, CO, she has had great success teaching clients ranging from children with down syndrome to the elderly and everyone in between.

It is her endeavour to use her skills and passion as a Pilates teacher to instill confidence and wellness in her clients while showing them how to live a balanced and pain free life.