Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashleigh Hayes
Hi Ashleigh, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In May 2016, my life changed in an instant. I was in a severe car accident that left me with facial injuries and required reconstructive surgery. The physical healing was one thing, but the emotional toll—the anxiety, the self-doubt, the feeling of losing control—was overwhelming.
I needed something to help me reconnect with my body and my confidence. That’s when a friend introduced me to Pilates. At first, it was just movement, a way to regain strength. But it quickly became so much more. Pilates gave me control over my breath, my mind, and my healing. It became my safe space, my way to rebuild from the inside out.
From taking my first class to becoming an instructor, my passion only grew. I started teaching, first in Memphis, then in Houston, and the impact I saw Pilates having on others—on their strength, confidence, and overall well-being—confirmed what I already knew: this practice is transformational.
Now, I’m bringing that transformation back to Memphis. Evolve Pilates Studio is more than a fitness space—it’s a movement, a community, and a place where people can move with love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Has it been a smooth road? Absolutely not. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that growth comes from the challenges.
One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is getting people to try Pilates. There’s this common misconception that Pilates is only for a certain type of person—super flexible, already fit, maybe even a little elite. And honestly, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Pilates is for every body, every fitness level, every person willing to show up and move with love.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Oh, I’m not strong enough for Pilates,” or “That looks way too intimidating.” And I get it—walking into something new, especially in the fitness world, can feel overwhelming. But that’s exactly why I’m opening Evolve Pilates Studio. I want to create a space where people feel welcomed, included, and supported from day one. Where they realize they are strong enough, they do belong here, and all they have to do is start.
Pilates changed my life, and I know it can do the same for so many others. My biggest message? Just try it. Show up for yourself, trust the process, and let’s evolve together.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Evolve Pilates Studio?
At Evolve, we specialize in reformer Pilates with a focus on making the practice accessible, inclusive, and empowering for every body. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mover, our goal is to help you move with love, build strength, and evolve into your best self.
What sets Evolve apart is the energy and community we’re building. Pilates can feel intimidating, but not here. We’re creating a space that is welcoming, vibrant, and fun—where everyone feels seen, supported, and strong. From high-energy, music-driven classes to trained instructors who meet you where you are, Evolve is about more than just Pilates—it’s about transformation, both physically and mentally.
I’m most proud of bringing something fresh and exciting to Memphis. Evolve is the city’s first Black-owned reformer Pilates studio, and that means so much. Representation in wellness matters, and I want people to see themselves reflected in this space.
Our studio will offer group reformer classes, private sessions, and special community events—plus an atmosphere that makes you actually want to work out. Because fitness shouldn’t feel like a chore—it should feel like a celebration of what your body can do.
If you’ve been waiting for the right place to start your Pilates journey, this is it. Evolve is for you, and we can’t wait to move with you.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Success is never a solo journey, and I am beyond grateful for the people who have supported me along the way. My family and friends have been my rock, believing in me even when I doubted myself. They’ve cheered me on, lifted me up, and reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.
But I especially want to give credit to my Pilates students—past, present, and future. Every single person who has ever taken my class, whether it was their first time or they’ve been with me since day one, has played a huge role in shaping me as an instructor and now as a studio owner. Seeing their growth, hearing their stories, and witnessing their transformations have been my biggest inspiration.
To those who have trusted me to guide them in movement, who have shown up week after week, and who have supported this vision before it was even fully realized—thank you. Evolve wouldn’t be possible without you, and I can’t wait to continue this journey together.
Pricing:
- Evolve Pilates Studio Founding Membership – $2,000.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://evolvepilatesmem.com
- Instagram: evolvepilates_mem
Image Credits
@madebyglyde (headshot photo)
