Today we’d like to introduce you to Rayy Knights.
Hi Rayy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My wellness journey began during one of the hardest seasons of my life. In late 2022, I lost one of my best friends. The grief was overwhelming, and I knew I needed something positive to pour my energy into—something that would help me navigate my mental health and give me a sense of purpose again.
In early 2023, I started my Pilates journey. What began as a way to heal quickly became a passion. I fell in love with how Pilates challenges the body while also creating space for mindfulness, strength, and self-care. It became more than just a workout—it became a vital part of my healing journey.
As my love for Pilates grew, I knew I wanted to share that feeling with others. In April 2025, I was honored to receive a full-ride scholarship to complete my comprehensive Pilates instructor training. That opportunity changed my life, and in December 2025, I became a comprehensively certified Pilates instructor.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to teach in both studio and community settings while building my own wellness brand, Prive’ Wellness Collective, better known as Prive’ Fitness. My mission has always been to make wellness feel welcoming, empowering, and accessible for everyone. Through signature experiences like Pilates in the Park, community collaborations, and themed wellness events, I’ve been able to bring people together in a way that goes beyond exercise—creating spaces where people can move, connect, and simply breathe.
Like many entrepreneurs, my journey hasn’t been without challenges, but those experiences have strengthened my purpose. They remind me why I do this work. Every class I teach and every event I host is rooted in the belief that movement can be healing and that wellness should feel like a community, not a luxury.
Today, I’m continuing to grow Prive’ Wellness Collective—better known as Prive’ Fitness—through partnerships, corporate wellness experiences, and community events. My goal is simple: to create spaces where people can prioritize themselves, build meaningful connections, and discover the healing power of movement, just as I did. My story is proof that even in the midst of loss, healing is possible, and sometimes the thing that saves you becomes the very thing you’re meant to share with the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest challenges has been navigating the Pilates industry as a Black woman. Diversity is still limited in many Pilates spaces, and it’s often unexpected for people to see someone who looks like me leading classes or creating wellness experiences. While that can be challenging at times, it’s also become one of my biggest motivations. I want people from all backgrounds to see themselves represented and know that these spaces belong to them too.
I’ve also learned that behind every successful class or event are countless hours of planning, problem-solving, and perseverance. Things don’t always go according to plan, but every obstacle has taught me something valuable. Balancing multiple roles as an instructor, event planner, business owner, and community leader has pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that growth doesn’t happen when everything is perfect—it happens when you continue showing up. Every challenge has made me a stronger instructor, a better leader, and more intentional about the community I’m building. My goal is to continue creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed, represented, and empowered through movement.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Prive’ Wellness Collective ?
Prive’ Wellness Collective, better known as Prive’ Fitness, was created to make wellness feel inclusive, empowering, and community-driven. While Pilates is at the heart of what I do, my mission goes beyond teaching movement—it’s about creating experiences where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to prioritize themselves.
I specialize in mat Pilates classes, community wellness events, corporate wellness experiences, private sessions, and collaborations with brands and local businesses. I’m probably best known for my signature Pilates in the Park series, where I bring movement outdoors and create an environment that feels welcoming for everyone, regardless of their fitness level. I also love designing themed wellness events that combine Pilates with intentional experiences, music, mindfulness, and meaningful connections.
What sets my brand apart is the experience. My classes aren’t just workouts—they’re spaces where people can disconnect from the stress of everyday life, connect with others, and leave feeling stronger physically and mentally. I intentionally create an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable, whether it’s their first Pilates class or their hundredth.
One thing I’m especially proud of is building a community that continues to grow through genuine relationships. Seeing familiar faces return, watching participants bring their friends and family, and hearing how Pilates has positively impacted their lives reminds me why I started this journey.
As I continue to grow, my vision is to expand Prive’ Fitness through larger community events, corporate wellness partnerships, retreats, and collaborations with brands that align with my mission. I want readers to know that wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself. No matter your age, background, or fitness level, there’s a place for you in this community, and I’m excited to continue creating spaces where everyone feels empowered to move, heal, and thrive.
At Prive’ Fitness, we move with grace, and we finish with power.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
If I had to choose one quality, it would be resilience. Every stage of my journey has required me to adapt, keep learning, and continue showing up—even when things didn’t go as planned. Whether it was earning my certification, building my business from the ground up, or creating community events, I’ve learned that success isn’t about never facing challenges; it’s about how you respond to them.
I also believe consistency has played a huge role in my growth. I understand that every class I teach, every person I connect with, and every event I host is an opportunity to make a lasting impact. I don’t just want people to leave with a good workout—I want them to leave feeling stronger, more confident, and genuinely cared for.
Above all, I lead with authenticity. I stay true to who I am and the mission behind my brand. I believe people connect with genuine passion, and that’s what has allowed me to build a community that continues to grow. My goal has never been to be the biggest—it’s to create a lasting impact, one movement and one connection at a time.
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