Yoga and working out go hand-in-hand at New Kensington studio

Leah Delaney thinks the peace of yoga and the strenuous exercises of a fitness boot camp are a perfect mix.

That’s why Delaney, owner of AngelWing Yoga and Wellness in New Kensington, is expanding her studio to incorporate exercise and fitness classes, including kickboxing, weight training circuits, body sculpting and Pilates courses.

“It’s not just yoga and it never really was,” Delaney said of AngelWing, at 1003 Fifth Ave. “I wanted it to be more than a yoga studio.”

Delaney, 42, of Lower Burrell, opened her studio in 2021. At that time, the closest yoga studio was in Oakmont, she said.

“It was quite a risk,” she said. “I had no idea what was going to come of it, and I was pleasantly surprised. The yoga family we have formed is amazing.

“It’s such a rewarding career and I want to be able to offer as much as we can and serve the community with what they want and need.”

The new course schedule began July 1. Registration is available on the studio’s website.

“Every class is beginner friendly,” she said. “With a variety of different classes, it’s something for everybody.”

While some might think yoga and working out couldn’t be more different, Delaney considers it a case of opposites attracting.

“With yoga, it’s a mind, body and soul connection,” she said. “When you work out physically, everything else falls into place. You’re able to go about your life in a way you haven’t experienced before.”

Delaney took up yoga in her 20s to help manage extreme anxiety; it worked for her.

In addition to being a yoga instructor, Delaney is also a personal trainer certified through the National Association of Sports Medicine.

“I want people to be their best selves,” she said. “I’ve been a personal trainer for 15 years, and that’s why I do it. I want people to reach their goals and beyond.”

Amy Johnson of New Kensington is one such client.

“I think having such a diverse array of classes for every type of fitness level is fantastic,” said Johnson, who has taken classes at AngelWing for about two years.

The owner of Sweet Tillies around the corner from AngelWing, Johnson said she thinks her flexibility and balance have improved since working with Delaney.

“I’ve never been a workout person, so I’m grateful she’s right next door,” Johnson said. “It’s made me want to go, because it’s accessible.”

Delaney thinks the sky’s the limit with the studio and its expanded offerings.

“I see it turning into a fully functioning wellness center,” she said.