Escape Your Limits & LIFTS LIFTS Episode 87 - From F45 to Strong Pilates Going Global | Michael Ramsey’s Journey
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:
👉 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