FORM FEST. Dubai’s first Pilates & Movement Festival for teachers, by teachers, took place on February 7th–8th, and it was a weekend to remember. Encompassing two days of workshops, movement sessions and panels with leading educators from the region and overseas, this was very much a celebration of the Pilates methodology and ever-evolving Pilates community here in Dubai. Expanding perspectives and sparking curiosities, instructors, studio owners, and enthusiasts came together to share ideas, refine their craft, and explore what movement can be.

I met with FORM FEST. Founder, Freyja Rampe for a Q&A session to discuss the concept of the festival, how it all came about, and where it will be going in the future:

1. Freyja, tell us a little bit about you.
I’m a personal trainer and Pilates instructor from Sydney, Australia, and I’ve been living in Dubai for the past eight years, teaching both private clients and group classes. While I love reformer Pilates, the mat is where I feel most inspired – I love the creativity it allows.

2. How did the idea for FORM FEST. come about, and what’s it all about?
The Pilates industry is booming globally, and especially here in Dubai. As an instructor, I’ve always been a big advocate for continued education and learning from the best. We all scroll Instagram for flow inspiration, but understanding the why behind what we teach: the mechanics, the programming, the intention – is what truly elevates us as instructors. I wanted to bring together some of the best educators from around the world – people I personally admire, for a weekend dedicated to learning, connection, and movement. FORM FEST. is about becoming better instructors and better educators.

3. What are your thoughts on the Pilates industry and the boom we’re experiencing? 
I think it’s fantastic. I love seeing people follow their passion for Pilates, but I also think there’s a lack of accessible information around what it truly takes to be an instructor or open a studio. It’s not just fun flows, cute activewear, and the perfect Pilates burn – this career requires continuous education, commitment, and staying a student. If you want longevity in this industry, you must keep learning and evolving.

4. What is the main aim of FORM FEST.?
The aim is to up skill and educate instructors. I want every single person who attends FORM FEST. to walk away feeling inspired, supported and equipped with new knowledge. The industry can at times be full of ego, and I want to create a community where instructors genuinely support one another.

5. What can attendees expect from FORM FEST.?
Two full days of masterclasses led by global and regional educators, with creative flows and strong programming. We also have a dedicated Talk Room focused on discussions like ‘progressing from instructor to studio owner’ – including the financial realities and the key considerations before opening a space. There will also be discussions on avoiding burnout, managing your schedule, and staying authentic to your voice and brand.

6. Which workshop are you most excited about this weekend?
Honestly, this is impossible to choose. Every instructor at FORM FEST. is someone I personally admire and have learned from. Each brings their own unique talent, style, and expertise, so I’m excited for all of them.

7. How did you select the speakers and instructors for this event?
I must say, this was the hardest part of putting FORM FEST. together. I chose people I’ve followed for years and truly respect – whether for their creative sequencing, their technical knowledge, or their leadership in the industry.
I also looked at the real questions and patterns I see or get asked every day in the studio; from clients struggling with hip issues, to the demand for smart strength-building on the reformer, to the growing interest in safe postnatal movement. Many people also ask about becoming an instructor or even opening their own studio, so I wanted the lineup to reflect all of those needs. The goal was to curate educators who could speak to every stage of someone’s Pilates journey.

8. What has been the biggest challenge?
As a brand new concept in the Middle East, one of the biggest challenges was helping people understand what FORM FEST. really offered. A lot of instructors and participants thought I was opening a studio, simply because nothing like this exists here yet. It took a lot of explaining to show that this wasn’t just another Pilates space; it was a multi-room, multi-session festival built purely for education, connection, and professional growth.

9. Can we expect more editions of FORM FEST. in the future?
Absolutely! We’re already planning the second edition. My goal is to take FORM FEST. across the Middle East and continue growing and supporting the Pilates community.

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