The Faces, Minds, and Brands Behind the PMA China Conference 2025

When we reflect on the success of the 2025 PMA Conference in Foshan, one thing becomes clear: it wasn’t just the agenda that made it remarkable - it was the people behind every workshop, every booth, every interaction.

From the presenters who flew in from all corners of the world to the exhibitors who turned the Expo Hall into a hub of conversation, innovation, and industry insight, the energy of the event came from those who showed up not just to participate, but to contribute.

This was a conference shaped by people - professionals who care deeply about the future of Pilates. And that made all the difference.

A Faculty of True Professionals

The conference welcomed over 25 presenters from across China, Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia. Each brought their own experience, movement philosophy, and cultural lens - resulting in a program that offered both depth and breadth.

Attendees moved seamlessly between workshops on neurology, fascia, breathwork, classical technique, postnatal training, rehab applications, tactile learning, and creative sequencing. Every room told a different story - and every session was delivered with intention. Some of the most talked-about sessions included:

Heba Abdel Gawad’s workshop on The Neurology of Posture and Gait, which gave instructors a powerful framework for recognizing neural patterns in client movement.

Daniel Vladeta’s breakdown of Dynamic Stability, which helped demystify complex balance strategies using clear, grounded biomechanics.

Ann Toran’s focused session on Group Reformer Programming and Back Line Activation, which offered structure and flow for instructors managing multiple clients while maintaining movement quality.

Richard Brown, whose two workshops explored the deep interconnection between Breathing and Core Activation, and the Mind-Body Relationship in Breath Integration - each delivered with clinical clarity and practical application.

Junko Sakurai’s inclusive session on Modifications for All Levels, emphasizing adaptability across body types and experience levels.

Natascha Eyber’s exploration of Flow as a Teaching Tool, where rhythm and timing were studied as cues for connection and sequencing, not just aesthetics.

Changhai Zheng, who led multiple sessions rooted in breathwork, scoliosis management, and dynamic fascial strategies - bringing decades of clinical insight to his teaching.

Ava Rodriguez, who addressed Joint Longevity and Strength, linking thoughtful cueing and joint integrity with long-term movement efficiency.

Derrick Cope (Teacher Kong), whose deep anatomical knowledge stood out in his workshop on Correcting Head, Neck, and Shoulder Imbalances - a session packed with structural insights and hands-on technique.

Cholthicha (Thicha) Srivisal, whose session on Elasticity, Strength, and Fluidity offered a fresh somatic approach that blended softness with precision and intention.

Equally impactful were the sessions delivered by regional leaders - educators like CK Chen, Ziheng (Loki) Wang, Ying Yu, and William Li, whose influence continues to shape the Pilates landscape across China and Southeast Asia. Their presence underscored the deep professionalism already present in the region and gave international attendees a meaningful window into local practice.

And then there were presenters like Viktor Uygan, who blended creative movement with structured technique, or Alyson Limehouse, whose ROLLOLOGY session sparked new ideas about posture and modern wellness. Every presenter brought something different - and yet, they were all anchored in the same values: quality, clarity, and respect for the work.

All were masterclasses in applied knowledge, shared with generosity and authenticity.

The Expo Hall: Where Innovation Met Conversation

Just across the hall, another kind of expertise was on display. The Expo Hall served as both a marketplace and a meeting place - where ideas, partnerships, and future projects began to take root.

Attendees got the chance to explore equipment, technology, and training tools from some of the most trusted and forward-thinking companies in the Pilates industry. We were proud to be supported by four key sponsors, each of whom added tremendous value to the event:

Balanced Body, a long-standing industry leader known for setting global standards in Pilates equipment and education.

Align-Pilates, whose UK-based innovations continue to influence studio design and functionality across Europe and Asia.

JOINFIT, a major Chinese health technology company offering a broad spectrum of professional fitness solutions.

Active Pilates Education, a leading school in Canada whose programs are also integrated into rehabilitation centers for elite national athletes.

Each of these brands showed up not just to showcase products - but to have real conversations. They engaged with attendees, answered detailed questions, and built relationships that will likely extend long after the conference.

We’re also deeply grateful to our featured exhibitors, who helped create a vibrant and dynamic exhibition space: Body Concept, Zen Place, Hong Kong Pilates Association, Dongwen, Magic Birth.

And to One Thousand One Pilates, led by Mr. Zhang Qing, for their regional support and local expertise that helped the PMA team on the ground from the earliest planning stages.

What stood out most was how intentional these brands were in showing up. They understood this wasn’t just about visibility - it was about aligning with a community that values long-term integrity over quick wins.

What This Means for the Profession

This event wasn’t about star power; instead, it was about professionals doing meaningful work - sharing tools, refining technique, and helping raise the bar for Pilates education worldwide.

The presenters gave us depth. The exhibitors gave us direction. Together, they reminded us that Pilates is not only an evolving discipline - it’s a shared commitment. One that requires dialogue, structure, trust, and innovation.

These are the kinds of contributors who help shape the future of our field - not just by teaching or selling, but by showing up with purpose.

Thank You…

To every presenter who traveled long hours, prepared with care, and gave generously of your time and knowledge - thank you.
To every exhibitor and sponsor who invested in this community and trusted the PMA vision - thank you.
To every attendee who engaged, asked questions, and sparked conversation - thank you.

The PMA China Conference was successful not just because of its scope, but because of its spirit. And that spirit came directly from the people who were part of it.

We’re looking forward to continuing this journey - with the same clarity, collaboration, and commitment that made this event so memorable.

 The PMA Board of Directors