In Conversation with KINRGY Studios exclusively in West Hollywood

Welcome to In Conversation with… where Melaina, our wellness and travel editor, connects with thought leaders, vision seekers and changemakers in the wellness industry to lean into understanding our core wants and needs through practices that feel good. From learning about Human Design to the benefits of cold plunges, Melaina meets with folks who are changing the landscape for the better.

Today, we sat down with franchise owner, Pana Gelta and studio manager, Willis Hoa, of KINRGY to learn more about the foundations of the movement class and share a little bit about our experience at their flagship West Hollywood (WeHo) studio.

As I walked to KINRGY Studio’s only global location in West Hollywood, my nerves were at an all-time high as I am not a dancer, I don’t have much rhythm, and had no idea as to what I was really getting myself into. But then, when I opened the studio doors, Pana and Willis were there to greet me with open arms. We chatted before (and after) the KINRGY Rhythm class I joined and something happened during those 45-minutes. I felt lighter. I felt happier. I felt like no one was really judging me and I could truly be who I wanted to be before, during and after class; someone who just has fun moving her body in any way shape or form that feels good to me. Yes, some of the dance moves were hard, but it really didn’t matter how I was moving, it was just fun to move my body in a new way. That’s in my point of view, what the KINRGY method is all about, creating space for you to learn some dance moves, and then move to the beat of your own drum.   

Tell us a little bit about KINRGY.

Photo courtesy of KINRGY, provided by: VisitWestHollywood.com

PG & WH: KINRGY was developed by Julianne Hough as a way to help us unlock self-expression and freedom amidst life’s stresses. The method is designed with repetitive dance moves to help you break through limiting beliefs and tap into your authentic power. As you move, something unleashes within and it’s through that movement where self-reflection and meditation are felt. Everyone’s experience is different, and we offer the space for you to be seen, and valued in our community. It’s about expression.

PG: When the opportunity came to launch KINRGY in West Hollywood, myself and my husband jumped at the chance to do so. Our former studio was transformed into a place that matched the KINRGY vibe, and with Julianne’s touch the studio was transformed into what it is now; a light filled entrance, and studio rooms that power your mind, body and energy through practices inspired by the natural elements. WeHo is a place where people lean into all types of fitness, and we wanted KINRGY to be a place where you feel like family. 

How would you describe the KINGRY method, either for online classes or in person here in West Hollywood?

WH: The method is based on releasing energy. We have a collection of 200 dances, and are continually adding new dances each month. Each song is a form of repetitive movement that gets you to think less, move more, and is an opportunity to be your own person. It’s a chance for you to truly feel into your body and just let the music do the talking.

If someone is new to KINRGY, what’s one piece of advice you’d give them?

WH: Just have fun! We create a welcoming community and before each class I always remind people that no one is looking at you or judging you during the class. Sure, the mirrors are there, but they’re there to learn the moves and then you just move how you feel.  

What’s your favourite class to teach/take?

Willis and Pana of KINRGY West Hollywood

WH: KINRGY Rhythm as it boosts your energy and gets you to move in a fun way.

PG: Same. I love taking the Rhythm class as I love how the movement in the class invites me to move my body into shapes that feel good and accelerate my tennis game.

Where can someone practice with you?

PG & WH: Online and in-person at our WEHO Studio. Many of the online classes are led by our WEHO studio teachers, so whether you’re in-person or in-studio, you’ll see many of us there.

Book a class virtually here, or visit the team in West Hollywood here.