The weekend just gone marked a defining moment for the Pilates industry in the United States.

The inaugural Pilates Journal Expo CA was not simply an event. It was a gathering rooted in connection, community, and inclusion. Across two full days, studio owners, teachers, educators, and brands came together with a shared intention to learn, reflect, and move the industry forward together.

From the outset, the energy in the room was clear. Conversations flowed easily. Introductions turned into collaborations. Long-time peers reconnected while first-time attendees found themselves welcomed into a wider professional community. Pilates, often practised in individual studios and local circles, felt unified on a much larger scale.

According to the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Pilates Journal, CJ Zarb, “A central theme throughout the weekend was evolution. Pilates continues to expand, reflecting the many ways it is being taught, experienced, and evolved today. As explored across business panels and workshops, Pilates is evolving into an experience. One that blends movement, education, values, and community. The conversations highlighted that success today requires openness, agility, and the ability to adapt your business as the industry continues to evolve,” said CJ.

The business panels offered practical, honest discussions around growth, sustainability, and leadership. Speakers spoke openly about the importance of failing forward, reframing failure not as something to avoid, but as an essential part of learning and progress. “Failing forward is a great way to fail” became a sentiment echoed throughout the weekend, reinforcing the idea that progress comes from experimentation, reflection, and the courage to adapt. In an increasingly crowded market, differentiation emerged as more important than ever, with conversations emphasising the need for studio owners and brands to clearly articulate what sets them apart and how that distinction is felt through the client experience.

Networking moments were a standout feature of the Expo. From informal conversations on the Expo floor to structured networking sessions, attendees were given space to connect meaningfully. These moments reminded everyone that the Pilates industry thrives on relationships, not competition. As one attendee shared, “Truly this weekend was just what so many of us needed, to hear this positive message together.”

The Expo Hall itself reflected the diversity and direction of the industry. An impressive range of brands, equipment, technology, and services were represented, creating an environment of curiosity and collaboration. From new brands to market like Technogym, Tonal, Pilates Addiction and NordicTrack’s first look at the NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer from iFit (coming soon), to well-established brands like Merrithew, Balanced Body, Polestar Pilates and more, it was a weekend of discovery, innovation, and shared learning.

“The Expo Floor was buzzing!” - anonymous

Workshops led by some of the most respected figures in the industry grounded the weekend in education and depth. With Maria Leone, Tracey Mallet, Andrea Speir and Sean Bergara to name a few. These sessions challenged traditional thinking, encouraged critical inquiry, and highlighted the importance of continuing professional development. Attendees left not only inspired, but equipped with new perspectives to take back into their studios and teaching.

“Thank you for an incredible experience this past weekend!” - anonymous.

“Above all, the weekend reinforced a powerful truth. Pilates is not just an exercise. It is an experience shaped by people, values, and shared purpose. The Pilates Journal Expo USA created a space where that experience could be explored collectively, reminding the industry that growth is strongest when it is inclusive, connected, and community-driven’ said CJ.

This was not the end of a weekend.
It was the beginning of something bigger.