#Japan #Shizuoka #Pilates Education #Junko Sakurai #Pilates Method Alliance

Junko Sakurai to Grace the PMA Conference 2026

Junko Sakurai, recognized as one of the official successors of Joseph Pilates, will take the stage at the upcoming PMA Conference, a prestigious event hosted by the Pilates Method Alliance. Since its inception in 2001, this conference has established itself as the pinnacle gathering for the Pilates community worldwide.

About the PMA Conference 2026

Scheduled for July 11-12, 2026, at the Shanghai Marriott Hotel City Centre, the conference will adopt the theme “One Method, One Community”, bringing together Pilates instructors, educators, and studio owners from across the globe, particularly from Asia. This event not only offers a platform for sharing knowledge but also encourages discussions on international educational standards in Pilates.

A Unique Opportunity for Junko Sakurai

Junko Sakurai, who is also the CEO of Pilates Method Japan Co., Ltd., has the honor of being the only presenter to participate in the PMA Conference two consecutive years. Having previously participated in the inaugural PMA conference held in Asia in 2025, Sakurai's ongoing presence highlights her significance in the global Pilates landscape.

Moreover, she will lead a two-hour workshop, marking her as the first Japanese educator to be invited back for a second time. This opportunity not only showcases her expertise but also further cements her position as a pivotal figure in the evolution of Pilates education.

Workshop Details

Sakurai's workshop will focus on “Bridging Arms and Core — The Essence of the Arm Series”, where she will delve into the connection between the arms and core. Conducted in Japanese with Chinese interpretation, this workshop aims to provide deep insights that resonate with Pilates instructors and enthusiasts alike.

Sakurai's qualifications include being a direct protégé of Lolita San Miguel, one of the foremost Pilates instructors worldwide. Among six global successors recognized by Joseph Pilates himself, Junko is the only Asian representative. Beyond her leadership at Pilates Method Japan, she operates multiple studios across Japan, including the Pilates Body Studio in Shizuoka and the Pilates Legacy Studio in Tokyo.

An Evolving Hub for Pilates Education in Asia

The PMA Conference 2026 marks a continuation of connectivity, following the success of the Phoenix Rising Conference held in 2025 in Guangzhou. This sequence of events not only strengthens the community ties within the Pilates world but also enhances the status of Asia as a vital hub for international Pilates education.

With such a rich heritage and expertise, Junko Sakurai’s involvement in the PMA Conference is anticipated to leave a lasting impact, inspiring current and future generations of Pilates professionals.

For more details regarding the Pilates Synergy Summit 2026, visit PMA's official website.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to Pilates Method Japan Co., Ltd. or visit Lolita's Legacy.

This event not only showcases individual achievements but also represents a broader movement in Pilates education where collaboration and innovation are set to flourish.