Anthony Licitra believes his team’s approach to FS8 will change the way people improve their fitness. FS8 is set to open this early summer at 121 Towne Street in Stamford’s Harbor Point area. This new fitness brand blends reformer Pilates, yoga, and modern technology to provide full-body workouts that transform both the body and mind. Licitra already opened an FS8 studio in Fairfield last year.
Licitra says, “To stand out, you need a great product. You want a smart location that is easy to access. You also need a team full of energy and the right people. Creating a great experience and building a community in the gym is important. People should feel comfortable coming in. It takes many small details, but the key is having excellent products and operations.”
Licitra has the experience to make FS8 successful in Stamford. He worked 13 years in accounting and finance. In 2018, he co-founded F45 studios in Stamford and Norwalk. Those studios became some of the best franchises. Later, Club Sports Group, the largest F45 franchise owner in the world, bought those locations. Licitra now manages studio operations for the group. “We have seven years of proof that this concept works in Stamford,” he says.
FS8 offers a fresh approach to fitness. It uses science-based methods to help clients lengthen, strengthen, and move their bodies better. The workouts focus on both physical and mental well-being. “We focus on strength and flexibility,” Licitra explains. “We want people to rethink how Pilates, tone, and yoga can benefit them.”
FS8’s success comes from offering many types of workouts and plans. These fit different fitness levels, goals, and motivation. Classes last 50 minutes and can be booked through monthly memberships or class packages. Licitra says, “Clients know what workouts they need. Some come six or seven days a week and make FS8 their main fitness program. Others come once a week to add to their routine. Some want to try it out, some want more, and some want less. We meet clients where they are.”
The FS8 program includes 3,000 workouts that combine strength, balance, and mobility. Each class has an instructor and TV screens that show proper movements. Reformer Pilates uses a special machine with resistance, a sliding carriage, ropes, and a footbar. This machine lets users adjust resistance and target specific muscles.
Classes start with warm-up yoga moves, focus on a specific workout, and end with a cool down. Licitra says, “Reformer Pilates and yoga are easy on your joints. You won’t get as sore, and you will improve your flexibility and muscle length. It also helps your balance, coordination, and even your cardiovascular fitness.”
Licitra’s fitness background goes beyond business. He was captain of his high school basketball team at Glastonbury and also at Keene State College. His athletic experience, combined with his business skills and passion for fitness, sets FS8 on a strong path. He says, “Sports teach you leadership. You learn who the good leaders are and who are not. These lessons help you in life and work. Teamwork and collaboration matter. Everything is earned; nothing is given. Sports taught me a lot, and those lessons help me professionally.”
