COMMACK, NY — After stepping off the Rowformer machine following my first STRONG Pilates class in Commack, I needed a moment to catch my breath. The fast-paced workout blends Pilates, cardio, and strength training into a 45-minute session designed to challenge even experienced gym-goers — and it’s helping the studio build a rapidly growing community since opening in 2025.
Located at 6506 Jericho Turnpike, the studio was the first STRONG Pilates location to open in New York as part of the international franchise. A second location later opened in Williston Park, introducing a workout concept that combines traditional Pilates with high-intensity training while remaining low-impact on the joints.
“The location is amazing,” said studio owner and Smithtown resident Beverly Bono. “We chose this spot because it’s so central and right near several major parkways, which makes it easy for people across Long Island to get here.”
Find out what’s happening in Commackfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Since opening its doors in June 2025, STRONG Pilates Commack has quickly built a strong following, with most classes filling all 20 Rowformer machines as members embrace the studio’s high-energy blend of Pilates, cardio, and strength training.
Rowformer machines line the workout space at STRONG Pilates Commack, where members move between rowing, strength training and Pilates exercises during 45-minute classes. (Kepherd Daniel/Patch)
The Rowformer is a specialized machine that combines rowing with a Pilates reformer system, allowing participants to rotate between cardio intervals and resistance-based exercises during the workout.
Find out what’s happening in Commackfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Supporting the studio’s growing membership is a team of eight trainers, who lead classes and help members stay motivated while focusing on proper form and technique.
Trainer Lauren King, of Huntington, joined STRONG Pilates Commack in August 2025 and said the studio immediately resonated with her.
“I immediately felt aligned with its empowering, community-driven approach to fitness,” she said.
Lauren King, a trainer at STRONG Pilates Commack, joined the studio in August 2025 and helps lead classes focused on strength, endurance, and core stability. (courtesy STRONG Pilates Commack)
A certified fitness coach and full-time fifth-grade teacher, King said teaching has always been central to her career. Over the past three years, she has coached small-group fitness classes and is currently completing a nutrition coaching certification to better support people’s overall wellness.
“The best part of being a Pilates instructor is watching people realize how strong they truly are,” she said. “Helping people grow—both physically and mentally—is what motivates me every day.”
One member, Brenda Garcia, an East Meadow resident, traveled across Long Island after her friend discovered the studio and found it to be a perfect fit for them. Garcia attended her third class and said she was already noticing muscle definition in her arms and legs. Despite initially not wanting to attend that day, she returned because she had begun seeing results.
Drop-in classes cost $39, and Bono said the workouts are designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced athletes.
Bono left a career in finance to open STRONG Pilates in Commack, and her goal wasn’t just to launch a fitness studio.
“What’s most important to me is building a community,” Bono said. “Yes, it’s a business. But what matters more is building something where people feel connected. We know everyone’s name when they walk in the door. We welcome them. We create a warm environment where people feel empowered.”
STRONG Pilates Commack owners Beverly Bono, left, and Michael Caputo opened the studio in June 2025, bringing the international fitness franchise’s first New York location to Commack. (Courtesy STRONG Pilates Commack)
Before opening STRONG Pilates Commack, Bono spent her entire career in accounting, finance, and tax. Most recently, she worked as a chief financial officer for a company in Hauppauge. About four years ago, after a particularly difficult day at work, she began reconsidering her career path. She had been practicing Pilates regularly and discovered a passion for it.
“I had been doing Pilates for about four years and fell in love with it,” Bono said. “I got home and said to my partner, ‘I think I’m done being an accountant.’”
Her partner suggested opening a Pilates studio. Initially, she hesitated because the market felt saturated. However, her partner and co-owner, Michael Caputo, researched other brands and discovered STRONG Pilates, an Australian fitness concept.
The company invited them to visit their first U.S. studio launch in Stone Oak, Texas. After taking a class there, Bono said she immediately fell in love with the concept.
STRONG appealed to her because it combines high-intensity workouts with low-impact movement, which is easier on the joints while still delivering strong cardiovascular and strength benefits.
“What I love about STRONG is that it’s a blend of cardio, strength training, and Pilates,” she said. “It’s different from traditional Pilates studios because it combines all three into one workout.”
For many newcomers, the workout can feel demanding at first, but members often begin noticing results quickly. Grip socks, which help prevent slipping during exercises on the machines, are provided to attendees, and eucalyptus-scented towels, which are soaked in cold eucalyptus oil water after being washed, are handed out at the end of each session.
During a recent Valentine’s weekend series, the studio collaborated with several businesses, including Mimi’s Coffee House, Manushik Jewelry, Bashful Bites, Eat Better Meals and VIO Med Spa East Northport. The events combined fitness classes with local vendors and social gatherings, creating what Bono described as a “community touchpoint” for members.
Beyond in-studio events, the studio has also participated in local initiatives such as the Commack Volunteer Ambulance Corps Run for Your Life 5K, as well as hosting toy drives, food drives, and wellness-focused gatherings.
“We really want to be a pillar in the community,” Bono said.
Pilates workouts benefit anyone looking to build core strength, improve posture, and increase overall fitness, Bono said.
“It’s for everyone,” she said. “Pilates was actually invented by Joseph Pilates, but for some reason it developed that reputation as something mostly for women.”
As the studio continues to grow, Bono hopes STRONG Pilates will remain a place where fitness and connection go hand in hand.
“We want people to walk in and feel empowered,” she said. “We want them to feel supported and part of a community.”
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
