This week on The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with longtime friend and Toronto-based fitness instructor and publicist Megan Van Der Baars. If there’s one thing Meg’s story proves, it’s that big moves, both geographically and professionally, can lead to major breakthroughs. From Florida to Shanghai to Toronto, Meg has mastered the art of starting fresh, trusting her gut, and building a life rooted in wellness, movement, and purpose.
A Global Upbringing That Sparked Adaptability
Meg grew up in Orlando, Florida, but her first big leap came at 17 when she moved to Shanghai to live with her dad. She had barely left the state before that, but something told her to take the chance. That decision changed everything. It exposed her to different cultures, taught her how to make friends from scratch, and planted the confidence she would carry into every future chapter.
After college back in Florida, Meg made another bold move, this time to Toronto for a hospitality job. What was supposed to be a short-term role quickly turned into a ten-year relationship with the city. That leap opened the door to a whole new path.
From Hotel Lobbies to Studio Spotlights
Meg’s career began in luxury hospitality, but her real passion emerged when she discovered boutique fitness. While working in PR for a hotel, she began teaching spin classes before sunrise and rushing to meetings right after. The hustle was real, but it revealed what truly lit her up.
She eventually followed that spark. Today, she teaches at some of Toronto’s top fitness studios including Sweat and Tonic, Solis, and Lagree Plus. Her classes are known for their energy, creative playlists, and attention to detail. Meg brings her A-game every time, and her clients feel it.
Building a Fitness-Focused Life with Balance
Meg started with high-intensity spin and bootcamps, but during her pregnancy she realized her body needed something different. She began exploring strength training and slower, more intentional workouts like Lagree. That shift helped her stay grounded and strong, without running herself into the ground.
Now, she balances her training style to match her energy and schedule. Some days call for music-pumping cardio, others for low-impact core work. Her approach is flexible and focused on consistency over perfection.
Shamelessly Going After It
One of the most inspiring parts of Meg’s journey is her willingness to go for what she wants, no matter how far off it seems. Early on, she would reach out to instructors she admired and ask if they had guest passes so she could attend classes she couldn’t yet afford. She built relationships, showed up with intention, and stayed persistent.
When she set her sights on teaching at Sweat and Tonic, it wasn’t a straight shot. It took 12 auditions before she finally got the role. Her advice? Keep showing up, ask for what you want, and don’t let a “no” stop you from trying again.
Motherhood and Redefining “Busy”
Since becoming a mom, Meg’s life looks a bit different. She’s more focused with her time, more selective with her energy, and even more clear on what matters. Whether she’s teaching a class, planning a campaign, or taking her daughter Ellie on a stroller walk while answering emails, Meg has learned how to make it all work in a way that supports her health and her goals.
Rather than trying to do everything, she’s learned how to do what matters most, really well.
Where to Find Meg
If you’re in Toronto or just visiting, you can catch Meg teaching at:
- Sweat and Tonic – spin and sculpt
- Solis Movement – mindful strength and flow
- Lagree Plus – high-intensity, low-impact core work
