Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S, your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Recorded live at the Los Angeles Pilates Journal Expo 2026, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with four of the most influential voices shaping the future of Pilates and boutique fitness. In this special multi-guest, in-person episode, we explore how Pilates is evolving, from inclusivity and accessibility to safety, innovation, equipment, and long-term industry growth. With Pilates experiencing a global boom, these leaders unpack what's working, what's broken, and where the method is truly headed next. Featured Guests: Khetanya Henderson | Founder of KKRU Pilates Studio & Wellness, discussing inclusivity, accessibility, and trauma-informed teaching. Maria Leone | Owner of Bodyline Pilates, master instructor, and expert witness on Pilates safety and equipment use. Andrea Speir | Celebrity Pilates trainer and founder of Speir Pilates, on contemporary Pilates, strength training, and market saturation. Cie'Jai Zarb | Founder & Editor-in-Chief of The Pilates Journal, sharing insights on industry growth, community building, and the future of Pilates education. Together, they break down the real conversations happening inside the Pilates industry: far beyond Instagram trends and explain why Pilates remains one of the most powerful modalities for longevity, performance, and mindful movement. In this episode, we cover: What inclusivity in Pilates really means (beyond buzzwords) Classical vs contemporary Pilates: what's the difference? Why safety, education, and equipment knowledge matter more than ever The impact of influencers, algorithms, and social media on fitness programming Pilates, strength training, aging, and long-term performance Market saturation, studio retention, and what comes next for boutique fitness How Pilates continues to evolve while honoring its foundations 👉 To learn more about The Pilates Journal, click here: https://pilatesjournal.com/ 👉 To learn more about our sponsor, EGYM, click here: https://bit.ly/3JzsosR Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at wendy@escapefitness.com for advertising opportunities. Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a new video: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness 🛒 Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop 📘 View our full catalog: US – https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog UK – https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue Follow Escape Fitness on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/ 00:00 Opening & Pilates Journal Expo Introduction 01:00 Khetanya Henderson on Inclusivity in Pilates 06:30 Why Pilates Matters for Men & Longevity 15:00 Maria Leone's Journey & Pilates Evolution 21:00 Contrology, Safety & Industry Responsibility 33:30 Technology, Equipment & Digital Pilates 41:00 Andrea Speir on Contemporary Pilates 47:30 Market Saturation & Studio Survival 59:00 Cie'Jai Zarb on the Future of Pilates 1:10:00 Where Pilates Is Headed Next
