About Najat Stefka

NAJAT STEFKA Pilates instructor

Hi, I’m Najat – founder of Merton Health & Fitness, wife and mum of three amazing teenagers, and a passionate, highly experienced Pilates Therapist and Fitness Professional.

With over 27 years in the fitness industry across London and Australia, I’ve managed gyms, led teams of personal trainers, delivered countless fitness classes, and helped hundreds of clients transform their health and wellbeing.

Well over a decade ago, during a break to raise my young family, I discovered the life-changing benefits of Pilates. It not only helped me recover core and pelvic floor strength after three close pregnancies but also supported my mental wellbeing. That personal transformation inspired me to retrain as a Pilates Instructor, specialising in mat-based Pilates, small equipment, reformer Pilates, and Ante & Postnatal fitness.

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Najat’s Qualifications

Level 3 Mat Pilates

Level 3 Reformer Pilates

Level 3 Personal Trainer

Level 4 Pilates Therapy Exercise

Level 3 Ante & Postnatal Exercise

Pilates with small equipment

Pilates for Common Orthapaedic Conditions

Barre Pilates

Chair Pilates

Exercise to Music

Circuit Training

First Aid at Work

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Our Story

Merton Health & Fitness was born in 2015, and since then we’ve proudly supported hundreds of local women, men and children through Pilates, Fitclub, Ante & Postnatal exercise, stretch and meditation classes. Many of our original clients still train with us today - a true testament to the warm, welcoming community we’ve built.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, we moved online and began delivering live, interactive Pilates classes to clients via Zoom - a popular service we still offer today.

In 2024, I underwent a full hysterectomy - a deeply personal experience that has given me even more insight into the challenges women face in midlife. I’m now passionate about helping other women navigate and thrive during this powerful phase of womanhood, offering guidance, support, and tailored fitness solutions through Pilates and holistic wellness.

Four young people posing outdoors by a large tree with a woman and man standing, one girl sitting on a branch, and another boy standing behind. Clear blue sky, leafless trees, grass, and forest background.

I am also a Level 4 Pilates Therapist, trained in injury rehabilitation and experienced in working with clients through recovery and beyond. Whether you’re returning from injury, postnatal, or simply looking to build strength and confidence, you’re in safe hands.

We now also run beautiful Pilates retreats in France and Marrakesh, giving our clients the opportunity to reset, recharge and reconnect with themselves in truly inspiring locations.

At Merton Health & Fitness, our mission is to support your mind, body and soul. Wherever you are on your health journey, we’re here to guide you - with compassion, expertise and a community that truly cares.

  • "Najat is a constant in my life. As I age, keeping my body moving and active becomes increasingly important. Najat is my mentor and guide, caring about my personal problems and adjusting her teaching appropriately. She is caring and encouraging. I love hearing her say well done. It makes my day!""

    —Celia Capstick

  • "Najat is amazing and I love going to the classes every week."

    —Claire Crowther

  • "Najat is a fantastic instructor - she's encouraging and motivating. Always feel great afterwards."

    —Lucy Lyle

  • "I have been attending classes at Merton Health & Fitness for well over 4 years. Najat is a wonderful trainer and always seem to be able to exercise the right amount of pressure to encourage and motivate me to keep the classes a challenge. I highly recommend and appreciate her classes."

    —Michael Prendergast

PILATES AND FITCLUB CLASSES - ONLINE AND AT THE PAVILION

Merton Health & Fitness offers Pilates and fitclub classes at The Residents Pavilion in Raynes Park, London SW20, and Reformer Pilates at a private studio in Raynes Park.

You can also book onto our popular online live classes, with weekly recordings to fit into your own schedule.

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