Penny Elkins Pilates Profile: An Escape from Everyday Life

Penny Elkins is a fully qualified Mat and equipment Pilates instructor with 7 years’ experience in the field. She has been running weekly classes at the Mansion for a range of clients since 2020, when Penny moved to the area.

“Beckenham Place Park is my favourite place to go, so when I moved I just had to look into starting my own class in the beautiful Mansion.” Luckily for Penny (and the people of Beckenham), it took off and she’s now been running the class for more than 3 years.

Penny was always sporty as a child, being very into gymnastics and an excellent sprinter, but didn’t pursue fitness as a career until her late 20s – “it was the best decision I ever made!”

Once Penny had her Pilates qualifications, things snowballed and she went on to become a qualified Personal Trainer, as well as an Ariel Yoga instructor and a Barre instructor, whilst also training in pre and post natal fitness too.

This vast, rounded and varied experience allows Penny to comfortably run classes for a range of ages and abilities in both fitness and rehab settings.

“In every class I always ensure everyone gets challenged at their own pace and level – meaning everyone feels welcome, including pre and post natal clients. For me, I just love seeing people progress and feel amazing in their bodies, whoever they may be.”

Hosting classes at the Mansion and in Beckenham Place Park has only fuelled this sense of community further. Penny’s classes add to the rich programme taking place in the Mansion and across the park with regular markets, as well as music, art and fashion events.

“The park always feels like a lovely escape from everyday life. There are always friendly faces to chat to, and you feel that you are part of this lovely community.”

Penny currently works in studios across South East London, and for herself at her home studio. You can find her schedule here.