Canadian brand Kommunity Fitness has secured its first US franchise deal. The boutique, tech-driven fitness group will start in New Jersey, before building a nationwide network spearheaded by former Club Pilates president, Mike Gray.
Kommunity Fitness is a Vancouver-based group fitness concept that combines coach-led circuit training, digital screens, and performance tracking. The opening franchise deal means that the brand has secured development rights in The Garden State, although a specific location has not yet been found. A further announcement is expected once a suitable venue is secured.
How Kommunity Fitness Made The Move South
It’s been a busy period for Kommunity Fitness, who announced Mike Gray as new president and COO earlier in 2026. Kommunity founder Aaron Keay has spoken on the latest development, saying:
“New Jersey is the first step in a much bigger vision. We’ve spent years building the brand, the experience, and the culture behind Kommunity. Now, with Mike and the team leading our U.S. expansion, we have the experience and infrastructure to take what we created and introduce it to communities across the country without losing what made Kommunity special in the first place.”
Further opportunities in the U.S. market are being explored by Kommunity, a process which involves discussions with prospective franchisees. There are currently two Kommunity Fitness studios in Vancouver, with plans to make waves south of the Canadian border well underway. Single-unit entrepreneurs and multi-unit operators are being targeted.
How Does Kommunity Fitness Operate?
Classes are 50 minutes long and combine strength, cardio, and conditioning. Members can also take advantage of endurance and HIIT classes, as well as team workouts and K-Tenz. The latter is a form of hybrid training that includes running, erg intervals, strength stations, carries, and sled pushes/pulls.
Kommunity Fitness is focusing on quality rather than quantity. There is a real emphasis on choosing franchisees who can make an impact in local communities, with Mike Gray stating:
“We’re not putting dots on a map just to say we’re growing. Our first U.S. operator is helping plant the Kommunity flag in New Jersey, and that’s a pretty special responsibility.”
The franchise system developed by Kommunity will help support operators in studio development, training, real estate, technology, sales and marketing, and operations.
