A Celebration of Movement with Raven Ross
On a warm, sunny Saturday morning in mid-September, Raven Ross transformed the rooftop pool deck of a downtown D.C. hotel into a vibrant celebration of movement. Against a backdrop of the shimmering city skyline, the 32-year-old fitness entrepreneur guided a diverse group of women through Pilates flows, accompanied by an energetic mix of R&B, rap, and pop music. The atmosphere buzzed with laughter as Ross cracked jokes and shouted encouragement, fostering a sense of community among participants—some seasoned and others new to the practice.
A Wellness Block Party
Between stretches, the women mingled, sipping boxed water and juices while swapping Instagram handles. The scene felt less like a traditional workout class and more like a wellness block party, exemplifying the community Ross has diligently sought to create. This lively gathering stood in stark contrast to recent online controversy surrounding her reputation.
The Controversy
Just days prior to the event, a now-deleted TikTok video went viral, drawing criticism for Ross’s comments about the perceived exclusivity of Pilates. In her attempt to explain the workout’s price point, she compared it to a luxury fashion brand, insinuating that diversity and accessibility are secondary to its luxury image. “You would never walk into Bottega and be like, ‘Where is the diversity?’” she said, a remark that many interpreted as dismissive of the very foundation of Pilates, which is rooted in accessibility and inclusivity.
Acknowledging the Backlash
The backlash was swift, and Ross released an apology that wasn’t well-received. Many felt her comments contradicted the humble origins of Pilates, which was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s while he was in a World War I internment camp. The method aims to promote controlled movements, breath, and alignment, emphasizing the mind-body connection. Ross understands that her words caused harm, admitting that she articulated her message poorly.
Commitment to Inclusivity
“Pilates is for everyone,” she affirmed. “Our mission statement is literally ‘Pilates for all bodies,’ and I truly mean that.” After her pop-up class, Ross took the opportunity to apologize to participants for any misrepresentation, emphasizing her desire for the Pilates community to be welcoming.
The Roots of Pilates
The history of Pilates highlights its ability to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds. Joseph Pilates trained many women, including Kathy Stanford Grant, a pioneering Black dancer. Ross recognizes this lineage and aims to carry it forward in her work by making Pilates more accessible.
Building an Accessible Brand
While Pilates can often be perceived as a luxury workout, Ross has cultivated a brand that embraces affordability. Her newly launched app, Pilates Body by Raven, serves as a hub for on-demand workout videos, community updates, and access to affordable programs, including a pregnancy-friendly series. With a monthly membership priced at $40, Ross ensures that costs remain low, often running discounts to invite more users to join.
A Personal Journey
Ross’s commitment to inclusivity stems from her personal journey. As a professional dancer for two decades, she initially disliked Pilates at the age of 15. “I remember thinking, ‘Oh my god, yawn. I’m literally sleeping on the mat,’” she recalled. However, a transformative college class changed her perspective—and ultimately set her on the path from student to instructor.
From Teacher to Thought Leader
Before the pandemic, Ross taught in large studios, but her rise to prominence accelerated when she began filming her workouts for YouTube. What began as an effort to reach broader audiences blossomed into a dedicated community, where online interactions turned into real-life connections through pop-up events. “I wasn’t a social media person… I’m not a tech person,” Ross admitted, but she was determined to spread her love for Pilates.
The Importance of Connection
Ross schedules two to three pop-up events each month, emphasizing the importance of community in her mission. “It’s really about getting more women involved, hearing each other’s stories, and making friends,” she said. These gatherings extend beyond workouts; they foster a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Impact Over Aesthetics
For Ross, her work transcends physical appearance. “The biggest takeaway is leaving here with an inspired spirit for the rest of your day,” she shared. Her ultimate goal is to create a lasting impact that outlives her own journey—a vision that resonates deeply with those who join her in the practice of Pilates.
Through her passion and commitment, Raven Ross is not just reshaping the Pilates community but also inspiring a movement towards inclusivity and empowerment for all women.