Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Valentine.
Hi Hannah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Elev8 Pilates was inspired by a very real turning point in my life. After suffering a concussion, I struggled to return to the gym and the high-intensity workouts I had always relied on. My body simply wasn’t responding the same way, and I realized I needed movement that would help me rebuild strength without leaving me depleted or in pain. That’s when I found Pilates.
Pilates gave me a full-body workout while being gentler on my body—it strengthened, stabilized, and restored me in a way that felt refreshing rather than exhausting. I would finish a workout feeling better, both physically and mentally, and I quickly realized this was something our community was missing.
With a professional background in insurance and a deep heart for community service, I’ve always been driven by a desire to support and uplift others. Elev8 was born from that same passion. I saw a need for a peaceful, welcoming space where women could prioritize their well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally—without the pressure of a high-intensity environment.
While I don’t come from a traditional fitness background, my entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to building meaningful relationships allowed me to create something different. Elev8 is more than a Pilates studio—it’s a safe haven for women to breathe, move, connect, and feel empowered. My hope is that when someone walks through our doors, they feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow—at their own pace and in their own way.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges has been navigating city requirements and coordinating with contractors to ensure everything was properly permitted and built to code. That process took far more time, patience, and persistence than I ever anticipated, and there were moments when progress felt painfully slow.
However, those challenges ultimately strengthened the foundation of Elev8. They forced me to become even more detail-oriented, resilient, and committed to doing things the right way. While it tested me as a business owner, it also reinforced my belief that anything worth building—especially something meant to serve the community long-term—requires perseverance.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Elev8 Pilates Studio?
Elev8 Pilates is the only women-only Pilates club in Richmond Hill, and that distinction is very intentional. We were created as a safe, welcoming space where women can focus on becoming the best version of themselves—physically, mentally, and emotionally—without comparison, pressure, or intimidation.
We currently offer mat Pilates, and we’re in the process of expanding into a reformer Pilates studio that will elevate the experience even further. Our upcoming expansion will include reformer classes, a sauna with red light therapy for recovery and wellness, and a dedicated cardio room—allowing our members to move, restore, and strengthen all in one place. In addition to our classes, we also have a curated boutique featuring affordable, stylish workout apparel and accessories. It’s important to us that women feel confident and comfortable not just during class, but in their everyday lives as well. What truly sets Elev8 apart is the atmosphere. We’re not about pushing extremes or chasing fitness trends. Our focus is intentional movement, longevity, and leaving every session feeling refreshed, empowered, and supported. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, new to fitness, or simply looking for a space that feels calm and encouraging, Elev8 meets women where they are.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the community we’ve built. Elev8 isn’t just a studio—it’s a sisterhood. Our members support one another, celebrate progress at every level, and show up not only for their workouts, but for themselves. I want readers to know that when you walk through our doors, you’re entering a space designed to help you breathe, reconnect, and elevate your life—at your own pace and in your own way.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people are surprised to learn that I own my own Harley-Davidson motorcycle and my own boat. I love being able to do fun, adventurous things on my own, and I think that’s an important message for women. You don’t have to rely on anyone else to pursue the things you enjoy or live fully.
That sense of independence is something I try to model through my life and my work. I want women to see that you can be strong, capable, and adventurous—and still value softness, wellness, and self-care. You can build businesses, ride motorcycles, spend the day on the water, and create a life that truly excites you. To me, that’s what empowerment really looks like.
Pricing:
- unlimited membership $229 a month
- 5 class pack membership $99 a month
- 8 class pack membership $129 a month
- verve package- 25 classes for $499
- Elev8 Intro- 3 classes for $50
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elev8pilatesstudio.com/
- Instagram: elev8_pilates
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=61573457401803
