You’ve heard of hot yoga … but hot Pilates? Turns out, it’s a fabulous low-impact option that combines all of the strengthening benefits of Pilates with the therapeutic elements of infrared heat (more on those benefits later!). Thanks to Dose Hot HIIT Pilates & Yoga, it’s readily available on the ground floor of The Medicine Factory in Downtown Memphis. We caught up with Rachel Hornish, Dose co-founder and lead instructor, to hear about the journey to Dose’s opening in summer 2023, the benefits of their offerings, the fitness myth she loves to debunk, and more. Get to know this inspiring FACE of Memphis!
Where are you from originally, and how long have you been based in Memphis?
I’m originally from Southaven, MS, Memphis’s neighboring city. I’ve proudly called Memphis my home for the past 17 years.
Tell us about your career trajectory — from becoming a nurse practitioner to co-founding Dose!
My career journey has been exciting and fulfilling, rooted in my passion for caring for people and promoting preventive medicine. I began my career as a nurse, where I had the privilege of working in various healthcare settings … These experiences deepened my understanding of patient care and inspired my dedication to improving healthcare delivery.
In December 2023, I achieved a significant milestone by graduating from my Family Nurse Practitioner Program, which has opened so many doors for me. Alongside my nursing career, I’ve been teaching Inferno Hot Pilates for seven years, which has been so rewarding for my personal health journey. When the opportunity arose to open a studio alongside the Lewis family [owners of The Medicine Factory], I eagerly embraced it.
We’ve heard of hot yoga, but hot Pilates is new to us! What are the benefits, and what can folks expect from a visit to Dose?
Our studio provides a spa-like atmosphere with scented candles, soft lighting, and amenities like towels, custom lockers, and showers. Inside the studio, we use infrared panels for gentle, effective heating. Our custom infrared panels offer a different kind of heat, aiding detoxification, weight loss, and increased circulation.
The studio floor absorbs impact for added comfort and safety … It’s so comfortable that you do not even need a yoga mat, and it allows for deep relaxation, comfort, and stability in various poses. After your session, you are presented with a cool face towel during savasana.
Some of the benefits include:
Enhanced Flexibility, Balance, and Core Strength: The heat from infrared panels helps to relax muscles and increase flexibility, allowing for deeper stretches and improved range of motion during Pilates exercises.
Increased Circulation: Infrared heat can promote better blood circulation, which aids in oxygen delivery to muscles and removes waste products, potentially reducing muscle soreness and aiding recovery.
Detoxification: Sweating induced by infrared heat can aid in detoxifying the body by flushing out toxins through the skin, promoting a sense of rejuvenation and overall well-being.
Improved Muscle Activation: The warmth from the panels can enhance muscle performance and contraction, making it easier to engage and activate core muscles during Pilates movements.
Calorie Burn: Hot Pilates classes typically result in a higher calorie burn due to the elevated heart rate and increased metabolic activity associated with exercising in a heated environment.
Stress Reduction: The soothing warmth of infrared heat can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, creating a more serene and enjoyable workout environment.
Pain Relief: Infrared heat may relieve joint and muscle pain by promoting blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Enhanced Skin Health: The increased perspiration during a hot Pilates session can help cleanse the pores and improve skin health by removing impurities.
Improved Mental Focus: Some individuals find that the heat and intensity of hot Pilates classes improve their mental focus and concentration during workouts, helping them achieve better mind-body connections.
What are your essential tips for anyone beginning (or returning to) their fitness journey in 2024?
Starting or recommitting to a fitness journey will be a rewarding experience, but it’s crucial to approach it with patience and a positive mindset. My essential tips are to take it one day at a time and be patient with yourself and the results. Life will ebb and flow, but consistency is key — aiming for progress over perfection.
Find enjoyment in your workouts and most importantly, be grateful for your healthy body, capable of movement and hard work. Cultivating gratitude can fuel your motivation and make your fitness journey a fulfilling and sustainable one.
Are there any fitness myths that you’re itching to debunk?
The idea that fitness is solely about aesthetics can be misleading. It’s about feeling strong, healthy, and capable. True fitness encompasses both physical and mental well-being, and it’s important to focus on the overall journey rather than just superficial goals. Moreover, fitness is undeniably one of the core foundations of longevity, contributing to a healthier and more fulfilling life as we age.
Among the offerings at Dose, what’s your favorite class to teach and why?
Inferno Hot Pilates with weights is my absolute favorite class to teach at Dose, and it’s a class that truly excites me. It’s a dynamic and engaging workout that takes Pilates to the next level by incorporating weights and resistance bands once you’ve established a solid Pilates foundation. Pilates, known for its gentle impact on joints, is fantastic for building core strength, enhancing flexibility, and improving posture, making it accessible to individuals of all fitness levels. When we introduce weights and resistance bands, we elevate the experience.
The benefits of increasing muscle mass are substantial. It not only revs up metabolism, aiding in effective weight management, but also promotes better bone health, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Strong muscles enhance overall functional fitness, making daily activities easier and lowering the likelihood of injury. Additionally, muscle mass plays a crucial role in shaping body composition, contributing to a leaner and more toned physique.
What are your favorite sources for health and wellness advice, workout ideas, etc?
When it comes to seeking valuable insights into health and wellness, I find Andrew Huberman’s podcasts on Huberman Lab incredibly enlightening. Additionally, Peter Attia’s book, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, has been a significant source of inspiration and knowledge for me, greatly enriching my understanding of health, fitness, and overall well-being.
As for workout inspiration, I’m an avid follower of Gabriella Walters, the visionary founder of Inferno Hot Pilates.
What’s your favorite spot for healthy eats in Memphis?
City Silo, Raw Girls, Vibe Foods
And just for fun, what are your other favorite places to eat, drink, and shop in Memphis?
For the ultimate dining experience, I recommend Catherine & Mary’s; it’s truly a culinary gem in Memphis. And when it comes to shopping, I love going to Stock & Belle, a boutique located on South Main that offers an array of apparel, furniture, art, and unique gifts. It’s a place where you can find something special for any occasion.
Who or what is inspiring you right now — personally, professionally, or both?
My husband, Ross, serves as a profound source of inspiration for me. He consistently contributes to my personal and professional growth, offering his unwavering support in everything I pursue. To have someone who wholeheartedly believes in you is incredibly motivating and uplifting.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Some of the best guidance I’ve ever received is to truly listen to your heart and not shy away from seizing opportunities. Stepping beyond our comfort zones may seem daunting, but in those moments, we often unlock the greatest potential for growth and life-changing benefits.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, name three things you can’t live without.
Beyond the bedrock of faith, family, and friends, three indispensable elements integral to my daily life are my dogs, Miles and Tony, my morning protein shake, and my neck relief ergonomic cervical pillow from Cushion Lab.
Thanks for chatting with us, Rachel!
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