PMA Introduction/Conference Introduction

President Speech (PMA’s vision, mission, appreciation for sponsors, intro the presenters, ITTAP intro etc)

Room 1 | Allan Menezes – The Menezes Method: A Biomechanical Approach to Precision, Strength, and Spinal Health.

This workshop introduces the Menezes Method®, a biomechanically focused approach to Pilates that emphasizes spinal integrity, efficient movement patterns, and deep core activation through specific anatomical alignment strategies. Drawing on over four decades of teaching and clinical observation, Allan presents a system that challenges conventional assumptions about core training and movement mechanics. The session integrates lecture-based explanation with practical demonstrations and participant exercises, allowing instructors to immediately experience the biomechanical principles that underpin the method. Participants will explore how subtle adjustments in pelvic positioning, femoral rotation, breathing mechanics, and muscle sequencing can significantly enhance core engagement while reducing unnecessary strain on the spine and hip flexors. The workshop provides practical strategies instructors can apply immediately to improve client outcomes, particularly for individuals experiencing back pain or inefficient movement patterns.

Room 2 | Shelly Power – The Art of Exceptional Reformer Classes

Exceptional Reformer classes are shaped by the teacher’s ability to observe, adapt, connect, and create meaningful movement experiences—not simply deliver exercises. This workshop explores the often-overlooked skills that distinguish highly effective teachers, including class architecture, movement intention, client engagement, progression strategies, and real-time decision making. Participants will leave with practical tools to create reformer sessions that are more impactful, memorable, and professionally distinctive.

Room 3 | Chao Fang – Map Thinking for Hip and Glute Training: A 5-Dimensional Approach

At the 2026 PMA Conference in Shanghai, Fang Chao will present “Map Thinking for Hip and Glute Training: A Five-Dimensional Approach.” Participants will learn how to apply anatomy-based thinking to one of the most common challenges in Pilates and functional training—achieving effective, sustainable glute activation while protecting the lower back and knees. Through hands-on practice and case-based instruction, attendees will leave with a clear framework they can immediately apply in their teaching. Fang Chao’s teaching style is clear, practical, and grounded in science. He is widely regarded by his students as “the teacher who makes anatomy make sense.”

Room 1 | Rebecca Hong – Layered training of the Thoracolumbar Fascia in Pilates

The thoracolumbar fascia is a fascial complex that plays a vital role in stabilizing the lower back, abdomen, pelvis, and internal organs, as well as transmitting power in the midsection of body. In this course, we will delve into the anatomical layers of the thoracolumbar fascia and their relationships; we will then break down how to design and adjust Pilates movements for layered training of the thoracolumbar fascia, thereby better building core strength, repairing diastasis recti, visceral ptosis, and improving lower back pain.

Room 2 | Enzo Vetimiglia – Spirals, Slings and the Thoracolumbar Fascia

This workshop explores how fascial principles can expand and complement your existing practice and teaching, enriching your movement vocabulary and deepening your anatomical understanding.

We'll explore the fascia not as an abstract concept, but as a living, force-transmitting network that gives movement its continuity, resilience, and expressiveness. A central focus will be the thoracolumbar fascia, its role in spinal support and force transmission, brought to life through experiential anatomy techniques that make complex concepts immediately felt and applicable in a Pilates context. You'll discover how spiral and rotational patterns add new dimensions to your repertoire, and how counter-rotations become a powerful tool for building control, stability, and fluid coordination.

You'll work through bodyweight movement, balls, and elastic bands to build a rich, experience-proven repertoire designed to stimulate and integrate all the major myofascial slings, ready to use with your clients straight away.

When fascia becomes part of your movement language, every Pilates session gains a new dimension of depth, precision, and presence.

Room 3 | Sook Fun Chen – The shoulder is not so complex anymore

Conditioning the shoulder complex depends on strength, flexibility, timing and coordination of multiple structures. In this interactive session, we will focus on hands-on learning so you have a simple, step-by-step process to create optimal function, alignment and comfort in this area of the body. 

You’ll learn about the structure and function of the shoulder complex, and experience exercises you can adapt for most injuries and conditions, or for those who simply want to get strong. And, with this methodical approach, you will leave with knowledge and practical tools to use immediately. 

Please note that this session focuses on a practical approach to improving shoulder function in any scenario. We will not delve into specific movement impairments or pain syndromes.

Take a midday break to refuel, connect, and explore the Expo. Enjoy a lunch break, network with fellow attendees, and visit exhibitor booths to discover the latest Pilates innovations and resources before the afternoon workshops begin.

Room 1 | Walter Zhang – Rediscover the Core, Return from Control to Instinct

As one of the first-generation local Pilates instructors in China, Walter has accumulated 20 years of teaching experience. He is among the first certified Gyrotonic instructors in China, and is a Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner (AusTAB), with full-level certification in Anatomy Trains Structural Integration. Over the past decade, he has focused deeply on visceral manipulation and craniosacral therapy. He has served as a training instructor for Polestar Pilates, Sino-British Pilates and Water Pilates. Always active in frontline teaching, he excels at integrating international cutting-edge rehabilitation techniques with Pilates methodology. Currently based in Shanghai, he looks forward to hosting a workshop at this conference to share and exchange ideas with all participants.

Room 2 | Zayna Gold – Lumbo - Pelvic Stability on the Mat

Lumbo-pelvic stability is central to restoring and maintaining pain-free movement—but it requires thoughtful progression and precise teaching.

The difference between movement and pain-free movement often lies in precision.

This mat-based workshop focuses on how to develop and progress stability in the lumbo-pelvic region for clients ranging from pre- and post-surgical populations (with appropriate medical clearance) to those seeking long-term strength and maintenance.

Grounded in anatomy and biomechanics, participants will learn how to:

• Build foundational stability with clarity and control

• Progress exercises safely from early-stage recovery to higher-level strength

• Use precise verbal and tactile cueing to support efficient, pain-free movement

• Adapt programming to meet clients where they are—without losing effectiveness

With an emphasis on precision over complexity, this session provides practical tools to create mat work that supports both recovery and long-term resilience.

Room 3 | Junko Sakurai – Brining Pilates to everyone: Modifications focused on the principles of Pilates

Nowadays, Pilates has spread explosively across Asia, attracting people from various fields. In this situation, how can we effectively convey the depth of the Pilates method, which is not just as a form of exercise, to individuals with low physical fitness, the elderly, or those in the recovery phase from injuries?

 In this workshop, we will use modified exercises that combine the Tower and Spine Corrector to enhance clear bodily awareness.  As a result, clients will gain greater control over their bodies than ever before. Eventually, this approach will guide them toward achieving Joseph Pilates' vision of 'Complete control of your own body ', providing a crucial step in their journey.

More information coming soon.