FAIRFIELD — An international Pilates and yoga brand has officially launched its first Connecticut studio in Fairfield, with a second location set to open in Stamford. FS8, which operates studios across the U.S., London, and soon the Cayman Islands, opened its doors on Post Road on Saturday.
Anthony Licitra, head of studio operations for Club Sports Group—the parent company of the Fairfield FS8—highlighted the studio’s inclusive appeal. “FS8 can attract anybody, from those new to fitness to older individuals seeking low-impact options,” he stated. He noted that the studio also resonates with younger demographics, particularly as Pilates gains popularity.
The establishment of FS8 in Fairfield is part of a broader strategy by Club Sports Group, the largest operator for FS8 under the global F45 Training franchise. Located within the Fairfield Shopping Center, FS8 shares space with F45 Training, which focuses on strength training, high-intensity interval training, and circuit workouts.
Licitra explained that Fairfield and Stamford were chosen for their less competitive fitness landscapes compared to nearby towns like Westport and Darien, where existing Pilates studios, such as [solidcore], have a strong presence. “We see a strategic advantage in opening in Fairfield and Stamford, as they complement our successful F45 locations,” he said, noting the community’s growing interest in fitness and Pilates.
Currently, Fairfield hosts two Pilates studios, Club Pilates and Bells Pilates, located at the Sportsplex on Mill Plain Road.
The FS8 studio features advanced technology, including six televisions that display exercises and timers, allowing participants to follow along easily. Licitra indicated that while there might not be significant crossover between F45 and FS8 memberships, there will be incentives for members to explore both options.
“There’s a vast community of Pilates enthusiasts out there,” Licitra remarked, emphasizing a rising demand for low-impact fitness classes. The FS8 studio is situated in the former Capitol Photo Interactive space and boasts a lounge area with comfortable seating, bookshelves, and greenery. The workout area features 22 reformers, the specialized machines used for Pilates exercises.
FS8 distinguishes itself by integrating yoga elements into its Pilates offerings, especially during warmup and cooldown phases. “Our programming is designed to deliver high energy while maintaining low impact,” Licitra explained, noting that classes focus on strength, cardio, and recovery.
The studio will offer six classes daily from Monday to Friday, and three classes on weekends. Class types include “blast” for cardio, “flex” for strength training, “restore” for reformer work, “remix” for a blend of body work, and traditional Pilates sessions.
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