STRONG Pilates’ Global Expansion Gains Momentum, Backed by Elite Athletes

Australian-founded fitness franchise STRONG Pilates is making waves in the global fitness market, with its rapid expansion supported by high-profile endorsements from elite athletes.

The franchise, which blends low-impact Pilates with high-intensity cardio, has announced the rollout of over 100 new studio locations across the U.S., reflecting its ambitious global growth strategy.

Launched by Australian co-founders Mark Armstrong and Michael Ramsey, STRONG Pilates has rapidly gained traction both locally and internationally. The company’s innovative approach, centred on its exclusive Rowformer and Bikeformer machines, has appealed to a broad range of fitness enthusiasts, including professional athletes who prioritise injury prevention and performance enhancement.

NBA player Zach Collins of the San Antonio Spurs was among the first to experience the workout at the newly opened Stone Oak studio in Texas. Collins has since committed to training with STRONG Pilates and has introduced fellow teammates to the franchise, highlighting its appeal within elite sporting circles. Similarly, top Australian athletes like AFL stars Nat Fyfe and Travis Boak, as well as NRL’s Nicho Hynes, have embraced the franchise’s unique offering, crediting the low-impact format for its benefits in longevity and injury management.

STRONG Pilates’ growth is not limited to the U.S. market. The company operates in nine countries, including Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and Canada, with new studios set to open in Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East. The franchise’s ability to scale quickly has been driven by its dual focus on local market adaptability and strong international demand for boutique, multi-modality fitness solutions.

Mark Armstrong, co-founder of STRONG Pilates, emphasised the role of athlete endorsements in building credibility and accelerating the company’s global footprint. “The demand for high-intensity, low-impact training is growing rapidly, especially among elite athletes who recognise the importance of functional fitness for both performance and recovery,” Armstrong said. “We’re proud to see STRONG Pilates embraced by professional athletes as we expand globally.”

The U.S. rollout, which includes 77 confirmed locations in major markets like Dallas, Los Angeles, and New Jersey, also includes plans for up to 30 corporate-owned studios in Florida and Texas. This aggressive growth highlights STRONG Pilates’ commitment to becoming a dominant player in the global fitness industry, positioning it as one of Australia’s fastest-growing sports business exports.

As the franchise continues to attract interest from both athletes and the broader fitness community, STRONG Pilates is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future of functional fitness. Its success underscores the potential for Australian sports businesses to compete and thrive on the global stage, leveraging innovation and elite endorsements to drive international expansion.

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