The Studio
Movement for Every Body
Welcome to downtown Nanaimo’s premier Pilates Studio!
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An inclusive and welcoming space for anyone who wants to move and feel good.
What’s in a name? A lot. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary Haven is defined as:
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Harbour, Port
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A place of safety: Refuge
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A place offering favourable opportunities or conditions
The studio is born out of a desire to create a space where people feel safe and free to be themselves and every body can find movement that feels good, challenges and strengthens. Combined with a love of the ocean and its ability to connect us all, and a desire to reflect this somehow, Haven felt like the perfect fit for a studio in the Harbour City.
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Join us at Haven Pilates Studio and enjoy the benefits of Pilates in a supportive, connected and inclusive environment.
Jennifer Pinette (she/her)
Owner/Instructor
My journey with Pilates started 15 years ago and I have returned to the practice over and over ever since. I value the transformative power of mindful movement and Pilates’ ability to build strength, increase mobility and improve one’s overall health and wellbeing, with particularly fond memories of the role it played following the birth of my daughters. At that time I was looking for a low impact fitness routine to strengthen and (re)connect with my ‘new’ post-baby body and Pilates delivered! I'm grateful to have discovered Pilates and continue to be surprised by the benefits and positive influence it brings to my life.
I'm a Balanced Body trained Pilates Mat and Reformer instructor. Originally motivated to complete the Pilates instructor training to deepen my own practice, I realized early on that I love teaching. My teaching is rooted in the belief that movement should and can be accessible to every body and fitness level. My classes are welcoming and inclusive, offering challenges that allow for continual growth and modifications for those days, or times in life, when you’re looking for a gentler experience.
About Pilates
Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates is a unique whole body fitness program designed to strengthen the body and improve flexibility, balance and coordination through controlled movements. It focuses on core stability, promoting overall body awareness and alignment; every exercise is performed with attention to breath and proper form to achieve maximum ease and efficiency through movement. Suitable for all fitness levels, Pilates emphasizes mind-body connection, helping to reduce stress while enhancing physical performance, and improving overall health and well-being.
What People Have to Say
“Jenn provides a welcoming and inclusive pilates class! She has a great way of explaining and describing how to properly do the moves. Her classes are inviting for all levels of pilates and I always get a great workout!”
– Katie
“I was looking for Prenatal Pilates classes. I found Jennifer’s business card in my midwife’s office. Jennifer provides productive and effective workouts in a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. She explains clearly how to connect with and move your body. Thank you, Jennifer! I feel save and confident exercising with you.”
- Lisa
"I have loved getting re-acquainted with Pilates through Jennifer's incredible instruction, and found my strength and confidence build quickly as I progressed from beginner to intermediate mat classes. Jen manages to strike the perfect balance of calm focus and energizing challenge — the best kind of workout. I am hooked!"
-Sarah
“I’m new to Pilates and have really been enjoying the Essentials class; it’s the perfect mix of beginner-friendly but still challenging. The class environment is friendly and inviting.”
- Gayle
“Jennifer brings the perfect energy to her classes! She is supportive, motivating, and welcoming. She offers variations for every movement so you can show up exactly as you are, whether you're feeling strong or just starting your Pilates journey.”
– Amy
"I’ve truly enjoyed Jennifer’s mom and baby Pilates classes. Her guidance has helped me reconnect with my core post-partum. Her instructions are clear, her presence is kind and calm, and she is great with babies!"
- Allison