Today we’d like to introduce you to Carmella Rogers
Hi Carmella, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
During our move from Cordova to Downtown Memphis, we had no idea the world was about to change. Drawn to the vibrancy of the entertainment district, we were also selling off our real estate portfolio, ready to move on from being landlords. Then COVID-19 hit, and everything slowed down.
Fitness had always been important to us—we worked out with a personal trainer at a gym—but during the pandemic, we needed a new routine. One day, a friend mentioned she had just finished riding a bike in a sauna. That immediately caught my attention, and I had to learn more. As I researched HOTWORX, I was intrigued by its ability to not only survive but expand during the pandemic. I loved that members had 24/7 access to infrared saunas—not just for workouts but also for meditation, relaxation, injury recovery, and even anti-aging benefits. However, the closest location was too far away in East Memphis, and I saw an opportunity to bring this innovative concept to Downtown and Midtown.
Determined to make it happen, I left my role as a CIO to focus entirely on building HOTWORX – Edge District. Since opening in 2022, our studio has grown into more than just a gym—it’s a wellness community. We’ve created a space where people can prioritize their health, enjoy the benefits of infrared training, and connect through special events. My background in IT, business, and marketing gave me the tools to build a strong foundation, but my passion for innovation and community is what keeps me moving forward.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the journey of establishing HOTWORX – Edge District has presented its share of challenges. One significant hurdle has been adapting corporate marketing strategies to resonate with our local demographic. The standard approaches often didn’t align with the unique preferences of our community, prompting us to develop more creative and targeted marketing initiatives to effectively reach our audience.
Additionally, Memphis’s hot and humid summers posed a unique challenge. Many potential members were hesitant to engage in activities involving heat during these months. To address this, we emphasized the distinct benefits of our infrared saunas, particularly highlighting that they provide a dry heat experience, unlike the moist heat of traditional saunas or Bikram yoga. Infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures and offer a more comfortable environment, which can be more appealing during humid conditions. We also educated our community on the year-round advantages of infrared exposure, such as improved detoxification, enhanced recovery, and support for endurance training, which are beneficial regardless of external temperatures.
Another misconception we encountered was the perception that we solely offered yoga classes. In reality, our facility provides 12 diverse infrared sauna workouts, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), cycling, and Pilates, all available 24/7. Communicating this variety has been crucial in attracting a broader clientele and dispelling the notion that we are limited to yoga offerings.
Through these challenges, we’ve learned the importance of community engagement and tailored communication. By listening to our members and understanding their needs, we’ve been able to adapt and thrive, ensuring that our services provide value and meet the expectations of our diverse clientele.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about HOTWORX – Memphis (Edge District)?
Please tell us more about your business or organization. What should we know?
HOTWORX – Edge District is a 24-hour infrared fitness studio located at 750 Madison Avenue, Suite 102, in Memphis, Tennessee. We offer a unique blend of virtually instructed workouts inside patented infrared saunas, providing an innovative approach to fitness and wellness. 
What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for?
We specialize in a variety of workouts that harness the benefits of infrared heat. Our offerings include 15-minute High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) sessions and 30-minute isometric workouts, such as Hot Yoga, Hot Pilates, and Hot Cycle. This combination allows members to achieve their fitness goals with more workout in less time. 
What sets you apart from others?
Our integration of infrared technology with diverse workout programs sets us apart. The infrared saunas provide a dry heat experience, enhancing detoxification, pain relief, and stress reduction. Additionally, our 24/7 access offers unparalleled convenience, accommodating the varied schedules of our members. 
What are you most proud brand-wise?
As part of the HOTWORX franchise, which has expanded to over 700 locations worldwide—including the U.S., Ireland, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE—we’re proud to offer our members access to a global fitness community.  Our Sweat Everywhere membership enhances this experience by providing 24/7 access to all HOTWORX locations, allowing members to maintain their fitness routines seamlessly while traveling. 
What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc.?
At HOTWORX – Edge District, we offer a unique fitness experience that combines the benefits of infrared heat with a variety of virtually instructed workouts. Our 24-hour access allows members to choose from 15-minute High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) sessions and 30-minute isometric workouts, including Hot Yoga, Hot Pilates, and Hot Cycle, all performed inside our patented infrared saunas. This innovative approach not only maximizes calorie burn but also promotes detoxification, pain relief, and stress reduction. 
In addition to our diverse workout offerings, we provide a Functional Exercise Zone (FX Zone) equipped with strength-training tools to complement your sauna sessions. Our Sweat Everywhere membership grants 24/7 access to all HOTWORX locations worldwide, ensuring you can maintain your fitness routine even while traveling. 
We take pride in fostering a vibrant and inclusive fitness community. Our studio has become a hub where individuals from all walks of life come together to prioritize their health and well-being. The positive transformations and testimonials from our members are a testament to the impact of our brand.
We invite you to experience the difference at HOTWORX – Edge District, where innovative fitness meets community engagement.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Yes, I have several
The E-Myth Revisited, ChatGPT, $100M Leads, HOT Exercise, Silva Mind Control Method, Daring Greatly
Pricing:
- : 1. Sweat Here Membership • Price: $59 per month (plus taxes and fees) • Benefits: • Unlimited 24/7 access to your designated home studio • Unlimited sessions across all workout programs • Use of the Functional Exercise (FX) Zone • Guest privileges during staffed hours
- 2. Sweat Everywhere Membership • Price: $79 per month (plus taxes and fees) • Benefits: • All features of the Sweat Here Membership • 24/7 access to all HOTWORX locations worldwide • Virtual Personal Training • Access to the HOTWORX On the Go program • Diet Trax nutrition program • VIP guest privileges
- We also offer special promotions periodically. For instance, in 2025, we had a “Join for $20.25” promotion to help new members kickstart their fitness journey.  For the most current membership rates and any ongoing promotions, please visit our membership portal or contact us directly.
- We also offer PAID IN FULL Options
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hotworx.net/studio/memphis-edgedistrict
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/hotworxedgedistrict/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HOTWORXEdgeDistrict
- LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/carmella-rogers-228293200
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hotworxedgedistrict
