Meet Our Team

At Ascension Studio, we believe the environment you train in shapes your experience. Our new expanded space offers room to move, grow, and challenge yourself—without losing the personal touch. With expert coaching and a supportive atmosphere, you’ll feel seen, guided, and empowered every step of the way.

Big space, even bigger energy: This studio isn’t just a place to work out—it’s where connection, strength, and self-discovery thrive.

Instructors

  • Founder/Owner (Spin, Power45, Sculpt45, Lift60 Instructor & Personal Trainer)

    Hi there! I’m Cayli Rickenbaugh, the founder of Ascension Studio. I’ve always had a love for the outdoors, movement, and building community, and that’s exactly what I wanted to bring to life with this studio. For me, fitness is about finding what feels good—whether that’s through a great workout, a breath of fresh mountain air, or connecting with others on the same path.

    At Ascension, I want everyone to feel welcome and supported, no matter where they’re starting from. This is a space to move, grow, and enjoy the journey, whether you’re working one-on-one, in a small group, or as part of a class. My goal is to make fitness fun, approachable, and something you’ll actually look forward to. Let’s explore new challenges, celebrate every bit of progress, and enjoy the ride—together!

    NASM - Certified Personal Trainer

    American Heart Association First Aid/CPR/AED

  • Lift60/Power45 Instructor & Personal Trainer

    With over 6 years of experience as a certified personal trainer, I’m dedicated to helping individuals of all ages and fitness levels achieve their goals. My background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance—Kinesiology from Montana State, and I bring both knowledge and passion to every session. As a new mom, I understand the importance of balancing wellness with life’s many demands, and I’m here to support you on that journey.

    I draw inspiration from my love of the outdoors and my family. Whether hiking, camping, or hunting, I believe in staying strong and functional for the activities that make life fulfilling. My approach to training focuses on personalized programs tailored to your unique needs, whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or simply someone looking to improve your overall health.

    Let’s build strength, endurance, and confidence—no matter your age or starting point. Together, we’ll create a plan to help you thrive in both the gym and the outdoors. Come try out a class and let’s start this journey together! 

    BS- Health and Human Performance—Kinesiology, Montana State University

    NASM Certified Personal Trainer

    NASM Certified Weight Loss Specialist

    Precision Nutrition L1 Coach

    American Heart Association First Aid/CPR/AED

  • Sculpt45 & Spin Instructor

    Hi, I’m Sage! Originally from North Dakota, I moved to Montana to be closer to the mountains and all the adventure that comes with them.

    My love for fitness started young through competitive sports—especially hockey, which I played through college in Minnesota. That foundation sparked my appreciation for movement in all forms. These days, you’ll find me cycling, strength training, and flowing through mat-based classes as part of my everyday life.

    I teach Sculpt45, Power45, and Spin, where I get to blend my passion for music and movement. Expect high vibes, loud beats, and playlists across all genres. If you leave sweaty and smiling, we did it right.

    Outside the studio, I’m usually trail running, hiking, skiing, biking, lifting, fishing, or hunting—basically anything that keeps me active in the mountains. You might also catch me coaching the Bozeman Ice Dogs, cooking something up, or hanging with friends at Outlaw Brewery.

    For me, fitness is all about community, confidence, and helping you feel your absolute best. 

A woman with long brown hair wearing a navy sleeveless top, standing against a light wooden panel wall, smiling with arms crossed.

  • Power45 & Spin Instructor

    Hi! I’m Madi Walsh. I moved to Bozeman from Seattle in February 2024, like many folks here I have a deep love for the outdoors—that’s what fuels my movement, both in and out of the gym. I’ve been a group fitness instructor for the past five years, starting out as a cycling coach (where I also met my best friend!). When she launched her own beat-based strength gym, I was so stoked to follow her and spent over two years coaching there—shoutout to my bodySTRONG fam!

    Now, I couldn’t be more excited to join Ascension, plug into this amazing community, and help others build the strength that powers their outdoor adventures. Outside of the gym I’m an avid climber and work for a nonprofit focused on conservation, Access Fund. In my classes, you’ll hear the occasional “y’all,” (I lived in Oklahoma for 10 years), some folky EDM remixes (don’t knock it 'til you try it), and a whole lot of encouragement. Can’t wait to meet you!

  • Lift60 Instructor & Physical Therapist

Front Desk

  • Spin Instructor

  • Spin Instructor

    Hi, I’m Olivia!! I landed in Montana for the mountains and never looked back. When I’m not teaching spin, you’ll find me skiing, hiking, or planning my next trip!

    I found spin at the beginning of college and instantly fell in love. In class, expect a good sweat, big beats, and a space to push yourself while having fun.

    Fitness, for me, is more than just the workout. It’s about strength, community, and finding joy in the ride.

  • Front Desk

  • Front Desk

    Hi, I’m Jayleen! I love all things fitness and am so happy to be apart of this amazing crew. Excited to meet you!

  • Lift60 Instructor & Personal Trainer

  • Lift60 Instructor & Physical Therapist

  • Spin Instructor

  • Front Desk

  • Front Desk

  • Manager/Sculpt45 & Spin Instructor

    Hi, I’m Vanessa!
I’m the manager here at Ascension, and you’ll find me on the schedule for Spin, Sculpt, Power—and eventually in Lift, too.

    I fell in love with group fitness back in college when I first tried a spin class, and I was hooked instantly. After graduating from the University of Montana (go Griz!), I moved back home to Manhattan, MT, and started teaching spin at CycleBar. That’s where I discovered how powerful fitness can be as an outlet for helping people, building community, and moving with intention.

    What I love most about Ascension is the people—the uplifting, empowering energy of this community and the team I get to work with every day make it such a special place. My classes are all about creating an escape: 45 minutes where the rest of the world doesn’t matter, and you get to surprise yourself with what you’re capable of—even when your mind tried to talk you out of it. Expect big beat drops, remixes, and playlists that mix EDM with throwbacks and sing-alongs.

    Outside the studio, you’ll usually find me hanging out with my dogs, Violet & Mabel, posted up at Cat’s Paw with a pitcher of mimosas on a Sunday, or grabbing sushi across the street at Seven (shoutout to the best rolls in town).

    I can’t wait to meet you in class and be part of your journey here at Ascension. Whether you’re brand new or a familiar face, I hope you’ll leave feeling stronger, lighter, and more connected every time.

A young woman with long red hair and blue eyes, smiling, standing in front of a wooden wall, wearing a black sleeveless top.

  • Sculpt45 & Spin Instructor