Strong Pilates to open nine new U.S. locations in 2026 — with more in the works
An Australian-born pilates chain is expanding its footprint across several major American cities.
Strong Pilates, founded in 2019 by Australian fitness entrepreneurs Michael Ramsey and Mark Armstrong, will open new studios across Boston, Charlotte, N.C., Los Angeles, Maryland, New York City and Philadelphia throughout 2026. The brand has also signed franchise agreements that will bring the brand to Miami, Portland, Ore.,; and Charleston, S.C., in early 2027.
New Strong Pilates studios opening this summer and fall include Back Bay (October) and Fenway (October) in Boston; Santa Monica (July) and Westlake Village (September) in Los Angeles; Gambrills (August) and Columbia (September) in Maryland; Tribeca (October) in New York City; South Park (November) in Charlotte; and Wayne (October) in Philadelphia.
[READ MORE: Crunch Fitness launches Reform Pilates studio concept]
The new openings will bring the brand’s U.S. footprint to 25 locations by the end of 2026 while laying the foundation for “continued nationwide growth” in 2027. Strong Pilates operates over 120 studios across 15 countries, with 200 more locations currently in development. The chain has more than 50,000 members globally.
“Boston, Charlotte, Los Angeles, Maryland, New York City and Philadelphia each have their own distinct identity, but they share the same quality we look for in every market: a community that’s ready for a smarter, more sustainable way to build long-term fitness and well-being," said Ramsey. "Strong Pilates aims to deliver the numerous benefits of Pilates, the cardiovascular gains of high-intensity training, and real changes in body composition and strength in one turnkey, spring-loaded solution.”
Built around the brand’s proprietary Rowformer and Bikeformer machines, Strong Pilates says that each 45-minute class blends Pilates-inspired resistance training, cardio and strength into a single low-impact, full-body workout. Programming rotates daily through targeted focus areas, including upper body, lower body, core, obliques and full-body combinations, to support longevity in training and prioritize injury prevention.
Instructor-led classes are enhanced by Strong Pilates’ Connect platform. Powered by integrated tablets, Connect creates a “seamless: experience for both members and instructors by delivering programming directly from a central system into Strong’s Rowformer and Bikeformer machines.
