Potential Energy was started by Pat Penny in 1998 and was further strengthened in 2005 when joined by husband Kevin. Originally from the South West of England, we currently live in the Midi Pyrenees region of France.

The name of our company defines how we view the endless possibilities for everyone to benefit from the massive health rewards that come from ‘looking after yourself’. We are here for people who are looking to improve their long-term fitness for health, our approach is professional, informative and fun!

Pat Penny

Health and Fitness Specialist and Massage Therapist

"For the last 26 years, I’ve been the luckiest person in the world – my job is my passion! During that time, I have worked with people at all levels – from ‘performance’ athletes to those just setting out on the road to fitness. This wealth of experience can benefit YOU as you look to take charge of your own health and fitness and stay active and healthy as you approach a ‘certain age’! I can empathise with you – I’m no spring chicken myself now! (47). I am sensitive to the fact that older bodies sometimes have to be treated more gently and that increased knowledge is as important as increased fitness.

My approach is very holistic in nature: by taking part in activities that you really enjoy, eating in a well-balanced way and benefiting from complementary therapies such as massage, you can feel better and enjoy life to the full well into old age and beyond!"

 

Qualifications

I have always sought to have as broad a base of knowledge as possible, this has resulted in a diverse array of qualifications:

 

Dip H/E in Physical Education (University of Wales)

Coaching qualifications in eight different sports (from the Governing bodies of each)

Healthy Eating Every Day – facilitator (Human Kinetics)

Weight Management (Human Kinetics)

Health and Fitness Instructor (American College of Sports Medicine)

Health and Fitness Specialist (American College of Sports Medicine)

Massage Certificate and Diploma (International Institute of Health and Holistic Therapies)

 

Memberships

European Register of Exercise Professionals (level 4 of 4)

Federation of Holistic Therapists

 

"After having had a proper job (?) for almost 30 years in local government, heading two departments and being part of the executive management team, I feel well placed to appreciate the stresses and strains of those people with hectic lifestyles. It is often so difficult to find time for yourself even when having the best intentions. So I know how fortunate I am to have been able to change direction for my second career and follow my passions for outdoor activities.

Kevin Penny Mountain Walking Leader & Certified Personal Trainer

Since my renaissance, I have added substantially to my experiences of walking  in beautiful areas and have shared this enjoyment by leading hiking groups. To promote health and fitness in general I have become a Certified Personal Trainer focusing on the needs of my age group, the over 50's. I have also organised and led cycling tours for many years in some of the most challenging areas of France. I get tremendous satisfaction from seeing others enjoy and benefit from all of these activities.

Due to my advancing years, I am now reluctantly an ex-rugby player (with the scars to prove it) but still enjoy a variety of energetic pastimes providing the necessary activity levels for someone who loves good food as much as I do!"

Qualifications Mountain Walk Leader Award National Navigation Gold Award Certified Personal Trainer Red Cross First Aid Certificate It's A Knockout Gold Medal 2000

Diploma in Environmental Health Certificate in Management Studies Diploma in Management Studies Master of Arts Degree in Management Advanced Certificate in Health and Safety