BODYBAR PILATES EXPANDS OREGON FOOTPRINT, SIGNING THREE-STUDIO DEAL IN PORTLAND

Wilsonville-based former professional tennis players to bring multiple studios to Clackamas and Multnomah Counties

FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 10, 2026 — BODYBAR Pilates, the high energy, reformer-based Pilates studio, today announced a new development deal to open three studios in greater Portland.

Leading the growth are first-time franchise owners and operators, Steve Robertson and Stephanie Paulson. This dynamic duo are former nationally ranked tennis players who hope to open their first studio in Lake Oswego in 2027, followed by additional locations in Happy Valley and Beaverton. They anticipate hiring approximately 10-15 team members per studio, including certified Pilates instructors, front desk staff, sale associates and studio leadership.

Steve and Stephanie bring a lifetime of athleticism, dedication and a strong work ethic to the BODYBAR franchise network. Growing up, Steve was one of the nation's top junior tennis players and a member of the USTA National Junior Team, training alongside some of the country's best players and coaches. He earned a tennis scholarship to nationally ranked Boise State University where he holds the record for the highest winning percentage in program history. Following college, he competed professionally, earning multiple victories over players ranked among the top 150 in the world and finding considerable success on the doubles and mixed doubles tours. After his playing career, Steve founded PDX High Performance Tennis, where he coached and developed top local and nationally ranked junior players.

Stephanie brings over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry, having built her career as a personal trainer and a Pilates instructor. She has a lifelong passion for health, wellness, and helping others reach their potential. She started playing tennis later in life, but rapidly excelled becoming one of the top ranked females in the Pacific Northwest. Today, Steve and Stephanie continue to compete internationally on the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour and have been ranked No. 1 in the country in the Mixed 35s division.

At BODYBAR Pilates, Steve will oversee operations and studio management, while Stephanie will serve as the fitness manager and lead instructor. Stephanie has seen firsthand the impact Pilates can have on people's lives. Watching her clients grow stronger, healthier, and more confident partly inspired the couple to explore studio ownership. Steve was a convert himself. He focused mostly on strength training throughout his tennis career, with little mobility work or stretching, and only tried Pilates because of Stephanie. Together, they believe their combined athletic, business, and fitness backgrounds will make a strong foundation for their studios.

"Steve and I visited numerous Pilates studios when we were exploring franchise opportunities, but it quickly became clear that BODYBAR offered the best combination of premium programming, exceptional studio experience, and a welcoming community," said Stephanie Paulson, co-franchise owner, BODYBAR Pilates Portland. "For us, it's all about adding in a layer of athleticism to the workout. As professional athletes, we know what it takes to train at a high level, and we want to deliver high-quality, effective workouts in every one of our classes. We look forward to expanding BODYBAR's presence across Oregon and building studios known for exceptional instruction, outstanding member experiences and strong community connections."

From day one, the couple wanted to partner with a company that values both business success and meaningful client relationships. They're hoping to expand BODYBAR's reach among men training for races, Ironman competitions and other endurance events, where the strength, mobility and balance work Pilates offers can make a real difference.

"As we continue expanding nationwide, we're thrilled to grow our presence throughout Oregon," said Matt McCollum, chief executive officer, BODYBAR Pilates. "Greater Portland consists of vibrant, growing communities that value health, wellness, and active lifestyles, making them a perfect fit for our business. Each of our studios is designed to be more than a workout – it's a place where our members can connect, challenge themselves, and embrace their inner athletes. Partnering with strong franchise owners like Steve and Stephanie, who share that vision and bring true athletic credibility, will help us deliver an elevated workout across Portland."

BODYBAR Pilates is a boutique fitness franchise offering contemporary, reformer-based Pilates classes. Unlike competitors, BODYBAR's workouts are intentionally designed for all fitness levels and combine traditional Pilates principles with a high-energy, modern approach, using state-of-the-art equipment like the reformer and EXO chair. The Portland studios will offer BODYBAR's signature athletic Pilates classes, led by certified instructors and designed to support strength, balance, mobility, and overall well-being.

BODYBAR Pilates is well-positioned for continued national growth, with 103 operating studios and another 12 opening this year, in addition to nearly 23,000 members. The brand is actively looking to expand with qualified candidates, like Steve and Stephanie, who may be seeking their next move. Single and multi-unit franchise opportunities are available nationwide, and total investments range from $431,425 to $756,035.

To find a studio, book a first class or learn more, visit BODYBARPilates.com or check out the brand on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube. To learn more about available franchising opportunities, visit BODYBARPilates.com/Franchise.

Contact:
Alexis Paul
Tidehouse
954-893-9150
[email protected]

SOURCE BODYBAR Pilates