In this episode of LIFTS, hosts Matthew Januszek and Mohammed Iqbal sit down with Michael Ramsey, co-founder of Strong Pilates, to explore the explosive growth of Pilates worldwide.

Ramsey shares his journey from F45 franchise success to launching Strong Pilates, a unique fusion of strength, cardio, and Pilates that has rapidly expanded across 14 countries. The discussion covers the evolution of boutique fitness, the importance of product innovation, franchise support, marketing strategies, and the controversial role of ClassPass.

Key Topics:

• How an injury led Ramsey to discover Pilates.
• The fusion of strength, cardio, and Pilates in Strong.
• Franchise growth from Australia to the US.
• Why boutique studios still win over big box gyms.
• The critical role of innovation in fitness.
• Marketing strategies and customer acquisition costs.
• The challenges and opportunities of ClassPass.
• Building trust and community in local markets.
• Handling criticism from traditionalists in Pilates.
• Future outlook for Strong Pilates and boutique fitness.

👉 Learn more about Strong Pilates:

https://strongpilates.co/

👉 Learn more about Michael Ramsey:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ramsey-89402033/

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0:00 Intro & Host Updates

0:59 Guest Introduction – Michael Ramsey

3:55 The Global Pilates Boom

4:38 From F45 to Strong Pilates

6:18 Fusing Pilates, Strength & Cardio

10:00 Entrepreneurship & Timing

13:19 Boutique vs. Big Box Gyms

15:03 What Makes Studios Successful

16:22 Marketing & Cost of Acquisition

18:18 The Rise of Strength Training

20:00 Innovation in Fitness

22:01 Expanding in the US Market

25:00 The ClassPass Debate

30:00 Filling Classes & Community

33:49 Challenges Entering the US

35:13 Wearables & Stress Study

36:00 Closing Thoughts