“ALL people deserve health and wellness; regardless of your race, sexuality, gender identity or body shape, I will hold space for you and guide you towards your wellbeing goals. You are welcome here.”
Catrina McCrae
Founder of CFHW
Hi, I’m Catrina! Thanks for being here.
Since becoming a personal trainer in 2016, I’ve noticed a disconnect between mental and physical health in traditional gym settings. The focus was often solely on the physical, with little discussion around sustainable behavior changes that support overall well-being, especially mental health.
Recognizing this gap, I began working with clients who were struggling with their mental health. My own journey with disordered eating, anxiety, and panic disorder helped me relate to the challenges they faced around self-compassion, connection, and the ability to nourish their bodies without fear or criticism.
This inspired me to create a practice that encouraged a holistic approach to fitness and overall health. With a background in communications and ongoing studies in psychology, I’ve focused on how to support both the body and mind, build lasting habits, and strengthen relationships. Research shows that community, connection, movement, and nutrition are the foundations of well-being—principles that are central to Conscious Fitness.
I offer a space where you can move in a way that feels good for you, supporting your life and goals. My evidence-based, mental health-forward approach helps strengthen your body while boosting confidence and mental wellness. Together, we’ll develop a comprehensive, sustainable plan that addresses both physical and mental barriers, tailored to your individual needs, incorporating nutrition, movement, and self-care best practices
My clients come from all walks of life, ranging in age from 8 to 75, with varying abilities and backgrounds. I’ve led group classes, workshops, and wellness programs in diverse settings, from in-person sessions to virtual boot camps. My work includes gentle movement and meditation classes at the HOpe Centre with the Canadian Mental Health Association, and mental health workshops at Capilano University. I’ve also shared the benefits of exercise for mental health through my podcast, Table for Three: You, Me and Anxiety - the Podcast.
As a queer person, I’m committed to providing affirming care for the 2SLGBTQI+ community. No matter your identity, you’ll find a supportive, affirming and inclusive environment here. The studio I practice out of is queer-inclusive, with a gender-neutral washroom and a team of allied trainers.
I also acknowledge my privilege as a white settler on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. I am committed to recognizing and challenging systems of racism and oppression, and I am continuously learning and unlearning to better support marginalized communities. My work is guided by a commitment to equity, inclusivity, and active allyship, and I strive to create compassionate spaces for everyone.
When I’m not cheering you on in the gym, you’ll find me studying psychology, exploring local trails, or enjoying coffee in Lower Lonsdale with my partner and our two cats.
I love our community, and I think you will too. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward health, balance, and well-being.
Credentials & Education
ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Culmination of 2+ years of study and annual recertification. ACE provides trainers with the education to design and apply personalized exercise programs based on clients' goals, abilities and needs; with a large focus on behaviour change philosophy.
AFPA Certified Holistic Health Coach & Nutritionist
Culmination of 2+ years of study. Educated to provide coaching and nutritional support from a holistic lens, which acknowledges the complexities of health and recognises the importance of supportive relationships, stress levels, sleep, meaningful work, work/life balance, spirituality, and more.
Bachelor of Communications Degree
4 year university degree specializing in interpersonal/intracultural communications and conflict resolution.
Post-Secondary Psychology
Currently pursuing a Masters of Counselling Psychology Degree.
Completed courses:
Introduction to Psychology 1&2
Social Inequality
Intercultural Communication
Interpersonal Communication
Cognitive Psychology
Theories of Personality
Research Methods in Psychology
Lifespan Development Psychology
Counselling Interview Skills
Institute of Motion Applied Health and Human Performance Specialist
6 month course on programming for strength, function and longevity along with exercise execution for all levels (beginner to advanced athlete).
Specialities
Trauma-Informed Yoga and Somatic Experience Course
Designed to teach how trauma and chronic stress impact the body & mind. Exploring yoga, mindfulness, somatic practices, and meditation and how they can reduce trauma and stress symptoms and cultivate a greater sense of wellbeing.
Functional movement
Pain reduction, quality and longevity of movement for sport and life, full-body strength
Kettlebells, barbells, ViPR Pro, bodyweight calisthenics
Mental health + resilience
Extensive education and experience in how to support individuals’ mental health through movement (including mind-body connection and breathing techniques), nutrition and other lifestyle modifications.
Habit and behaviour coaching
Certified to coach clients in how to develop self-efficacy, self-compassion and relationships with the self and others, while addressing challenging patterns and behaviour through teaching alternatives in nutrition, movement, effective communication skills and more.
Trauma-informed and holistic coaching
Coaching from a holistic lens that recognises the complex inner workings of clients, including the experience of trauma and the connection it has to movement and mental health.
Meditation and mindfulness-based movement