What to Expect at the Romana’s Pilates International Conference 2025
This August, Romana’s Pilates International welcomes the global Pilates community to New York City for the Forward and Up! Conference—a weekend dedicated to deepening your Pilates practice, refining your teaching, and honoring the legacy of the Pilates Method.
Gratz Pilates is proud to collaborate on this event alongside the RPI team, Pilates Pro Maintenance, LifeSpan Pilates, and Pilatesology, in a shared celebration of authenticity, excellence, and tradition.
Open exclusively to certified RPI instructors, this three-day experience will feature immersive workshops, esteemed presenters, and meaningful opportunities to connect with peers who are equally committed to the work of Joseph Pilates and Romana Kryzanowska.
Gratz Pilates & Romana’s Pilates International
For decades Romana trusted Gratz equipment in her own teaching, using it to ensure the method was practiced with precision, control, and integrity.
Today, Gratz continues to craft each apparatus with the same attention to detail and exact dimensions that Romana considered essential. These tools remain integral for teachers and practitioners who seek to preserve the depth and intention behind the work. Gratz is honored to support this event and its mission to connect, educate, and inspire the global Pilates community.
What to Expect from Gratz at the Event
The Conference will be fully Gratz Equipped. Each room will feature our signature apparatus—including Reformers, Wunda Chairs, Cadillacs, Electric Chairs, Ladder Barrels, and Small Barrels.
Throughout the weekend, some members of the Gratz team will be on-site to connect with attendees and answer questions.
At the event there will be a fireside chat with Gratz co-owner John Riccitiello, offering insight into the company’s renewed vision and ongoing commitment to delivering the highest quality Pilates equipment.
Extend the Experience: Gratz Factory Tour
As a special addition to the Forward and Up! Conference, certified RPI instructors are invited to sign up for a tour of Gratz Pilates in Philadelphia on Thursday, August 28.
This unique opportunity offers an inside look at the craftsmanship, design, and values that define Gratz equipment. Attendees will rotate through small-group stations highlighting key aspects of Gratz—from the precision of production to the historical and structural significance of the apparatus, including an in-depth exploration of the Reformer.
The day will conclude with an open Q&A session with Gratz leadership, allowing for thoughtful conversation and connection.
RPI Conference Details
The RPI Forward and Up NYC Conference officially begins August 29, Friday afternoon, with an exciting welcome from Daria Pace, setting the tone for a weekend of connection, inspiration, and learning. The opening session will feature a fireside chat and panel discussions, followed by an in-depth presentation led by our distinguished Level X instructors. This immersive session will offer a rich foundation for the weekend ahead. To learn more about who will be featured during the fireside chat and panel discussions, go to RPI Forward and Up NYC Conference.
On Saturday, the workshops begin in full swing. Romana Level I, Level X, and Level II instructors will each lead dynamic, two-hour sessions in the beautiful ballroom—sharing their unique perspectives, refined Pilates techniques, and passion for their work. At the same time, Level III instructors will guide small-group workshops, creating space for more personalized instruction and exploration.
Saturday evening brings a special celebration as we come together to honor Sari’s birthday. This joyful gathering includes all attendees, sponsors, and family, and promises to be a memorable highlight of the weekend.
Sunday continues with a full day of Pilates workshops following the same engaging format as Saturday. People will be inspired, connected, and energized for the work ahead in their Pilates journey after this Conference.
Why You Don’t Want to Miss This Pilates Event
This is a unique opportunity to honor and immerse yourself in the Contrology legacy, a tradition rooted in precision, discipline, and history. You'll have the chance to deepen your connection to the original lineage of Pilates, gaining insight and inspiration from those who continue to carry it forward.
Most importantly, you’ll be able to experience the tradition firsthand, engaging directly with the principles, apparatus, and teaching styles that have defined Contrology for generations.