Our Studio
Body Evolve first opened its doors in Highland Park in 1998. The studio attributes its longevity and success to its talented and knowledgeable instructors, who give personal attention to each and every client. All instructors are certified in Pilates, and come from many different backgrounds, such as dance, health care, yoga, and exercise. Our instructors work to accommodate the unique needs of each and every client, whether they be recovering from injury, optimizing their athletic performance, or just starting out!
Jenay Gordon - Owner and Educator
Since 2025, Jenay has been the owner and director of Body Evolve Pilates. Jenay’s interest in fitness started at a young age with martial arts, and today in addition to Pilates, she also trains as an endurance athlete. Jenay received both her BFA and MAAE from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She previously worked as an associate professor for various colleges, teaching drawing, painting, design, and art history. Her journey with fitness instruction began over 20 years ago, as a yoga instructor (ERYT500). Jenay is a Balanced Body Educator with a Pilates Comprehensive certification. Body Evolve is one of the largest Balanced Body ATCs in northern Illinois.
Arlene Bass - Founder and Director of Education
Arlene, Founder and Director of Body Evolve Pilates, has had a strong interest in movement and health and wellness her entire life. Beginning as a young gymnast and dancer and then receiving her BS in food science and business from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Arlene has continually grown her knowledge base. Arlene Bass began teaching Pilates in 1996 and opened Body Evolve in a small office in Highland Park in 1998. She is on faculty at Balanced Body, ACE, and is a PMA-CPT. Arlene has been featured in Pilates-Style Magazine and presents nationally at Pilates on Tour and PMA Conferences.