STRONG Pilates reaches its 100th studio milestone

Australian fitness franchise, STRONG Pilates founded by Michael Ramsey and Mark Armstrong in 2019, has reached a major global milestone with the launch this month of its 100th studio in New Jersey, United States. 

STRONG Pilates which offers Pilates with cardio and strength training, is one of Australia’s fastest-growing fitness exports, set to reach over 300 studios globally within the next four years. Since its inception, STRONG Pilates has grown to 100 studios across 14 countries, logged nearly 4.65 million bookings, attracted over 37,400 members and trained over 1,000 instructors through its dedicated STRONG Academy.  

Since launching its first studio in Elsternwick, Victoria, STRONG Pilates has amassed a cult following through its low impact and high intensity format, made possible by STRONG’s exclusive Rowformer and Bikeformer machines - combining reformer beds with a rower or bike. A recent member survey conducted by STRONG Pilates showed that its unique programming was the reason 84% of members trained at STRONG, with members attending classes at least four times a week (STRONG Member Survey, March 2025).

Emmett Williams, Chair of AUSactive, said that the impact of STRONG Pilates and its unique format had been felt across the global industry and noted “STRONG Pilates has captured the attention of the fitness industry - not just in Australia, but around the world. It’s a standout example of what happens when a brand challenges traditional formats with a USP that truly resonates - in this case, attracting a whole new audience to the Pilates genre.

“STRONG's rapid international growth is testament to a model that’s compelling, robust and demonstrates an intricate understanding of the multi-modality, boutique fitness industry. Congratulations to Michael Ramsey, Mark Armstrong and STRONG's leadership team on achieving an incredible milestone which many strive for but can only hope to achieve."

STRONG Pilates’ growth has been nothing short of extraordinary. In the financial year 2024-25, the company doubled its overall network revenue from the previous financial year to $50 million, with average revenue per studio rising nearly 15% over the same period. Multi-site ownership now accounts for over 50% of STRONG studios, reflecting strong investor confidence and franchise economics.

Ramsey and Armstrong (pictured above) have self-funded STRONG Pilates since its inception and remain the sole owners of the global business.

Ramsey and Armstrong shared “reaching 100 studios in under six years is more than a milestone - it’s a testament to the relentless drive, belief, and countless hours our team has poured into building STRONG. From a single studio in Elsternwick to a global movement, we’ve built a model that champions longevity, purposeful movement, and real results. Our fusion of Pilates, cardio, and strength training continues to resonate across markets, and we’re proud to bring that energy to Garwood, New Jersey as we expand further across the USA.”

The Garwood opening (pictured above) marks STRONG’s New Jersey debut, expanding its footprint across the US market - one of the fastest-growing Pilates markets globally (Business Research Insights, 2025). With over 155 confirmed locations and a partnership with Momentic Studios, STRONG is scaling rapidly across key metropolitan markets, including Greater New York City and Brooklyn, New Jersey, Long Island, Los Angeles County, Orange County, Greater San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, Houston, Dallas, Greater Boston, Greater Chicago and Florida. The brand is also accelerating its UK rollout, with 50 new studios set to open in the coming year.

Closer to home, STRONG is set to open 20 new studios across Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) over the next 12 months, building on strong demand and a loyal member base. With new studios planned in key urban and regional hubs, the brand will continue to lead the evolution of Pilates in the ANZ market.

For more information, visit www.strongpilates.com.au 

Images. Credit: STRONG Pilates