Hailing from Australia, Strong Pilates sets itself apart with Rowformers and Bikeformers for a heart-pumping cardio edge
Australian-born Strong Pilates is gearing up to bring its blend of Pilates and cardio across the U.S., with over 100 confirmed locations, including 77 signed franchise agreements. This includes multi-site franchise agreements in Dallas, Austin, Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.
Single-site franchise agreements have also been confirmed in Cinco Ranch, Texas, and across Long Island in Syosset, Garden City, Commack, and Ronkonkoma.
Strong Pilates sets itself apart from an otherwise crowded space by incorporating Rowformers and Bikeformers into its workout. Part rower/bike and part reformer, the equipment encourages an elevated heart rate for cardio enthusiasts. Strong Pilates owns the exclusive rights to both the Rowformer machine, which was developed in the U.S. and combines resistance training with cardio HIIT training, and the Bikeformer.
The brand has found a fan in NBA San Antonio Spurs player Zach Collins, who was the first to trial Strong Pilates in the U.S.
“There is increased demand in the United States for a boutique, multi-modality offering such as Strong Pilates, which has already garnered widespread interest among those wanting a more intensive low-impact option,” Strong Pilates’ co-founders Mark Armstrong and Michael Ramsey said in a joint statement. “Our expansion plans are indicative of a unique offering entering the U.S. market, which has already seen incredible growth across nine countries. With over 100 studios confirmed in our first year of entry, this is the start of an expansive roll-out of an unparalleled fitness format.”
The two fitness industry veterans launched Strong Pilates in 2019.
Last month, the Pilates franchise launched its first U.S. studio in Stone Oak, San Antonio, marking its 70th studio globally, joining established Strong Pilates locations in Australia, New Zealand, the U.K., Ireland, Singapore, Canada, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
The Pilates franchise says additional studios are in the works for Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Dubai, and Bahrain.
In addition to its upcoming franchised locations, Strong Pilates’ first corporate-owned studio is currently in development for Hermosa Beach, California, with 30 more planned for Florida and Texas.
Strong Pilates offers five classes: a beginner class centered on technique, Strong Loaded for those looking to make gains, Strong Body for a full-body workout that includes cardio bursts, Strong Sweat for the ultimate HIIT experience, and a Pilates-only class for mobility, balance, and strength.
The Pilates business has dominated the boutique fitness industry in recent years, with brands such as JetSet Pilates, Club Pilates, and F45’s FS8 making moves. While the in-studio Pilates experience has certainly resonated with fitness consumers, fully booked classes have led some to consider investing in at-home Pilates equipment. According to one recent market report, the global Pilates equipment market size is projected to grow by $146.3 million from 2024 to 2028.
