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MOVEMENT IS FOR EVERYBODY
Everybody’s Playground is more than just a boxing studio—it’s a safe, welcoming space where people of all backgrounds, bodies, and identities can come together to move, grow, and connect. Our vision is to create a truly inclusive community where everyone feels empowered to explore their strength, confidence, and self-expression, free from judgment and limitations.
We’re proud to be a LGBTQ+ friendly space that values diversity and encourages authenticity. Our classes bring people together to build skills, share knowledge, and support one another, regardless of experience or fitness level. From boxing and martial arts to dance and movement-based expression, our diverse offerings focus on accessibility and adaptability, ensuring that everyone feels seen, respected, and celebrated.
At Everybody’s Playground, we believe that fitness is for everybody. Join us to move in your way, at your pace, with a community that has your back
MEET TEAM AWESOME
Mel Harkins
Head Trainer & Owner
Hi, I'm Mel. My passion for martial arts started early, training in disciplines like Judo, Dan Zan Ryu Jujitsu, and escrima, where I hold advanced belts. My journey eventually led me to boxing, where I spent over seven years competing and refining my skills. Coaching became a natural extension of my journey, and I fell in love with helping others find their power and confidence in the gym.​
I believe that fitness and sports should be accessible to everyone. At Everybody’s Playground, I focus on creating adaptable workouts tailored to individual body types, abilities, and goals, because there’s no one-size-fits-all. Inclusivity is at the heart of what I do—my goal is to provide a welcoming, supportive space for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
I’m proud to bring my experience and qualifications to this space, including certifications as a personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, adaptive trainer, and youth coach.
Jenny Pohle
Studio Manager
Hiya, I'm Jenny and through some lucky coincidences and friendship on first punch with Mel I became the manager of Everybody's Playground. I'm a theatre facilitator and maker and growing as a fat person I've barely had positive experiences with physical activities and sports. Then I discovered my love for boxing at the beginning of 2024 in Mel's boxing classes. Calling this experience a revelation is almost an understatement.
My passion is to create and shape places where everyone can come together and express themselves, be it through arts, theatre or boxing. So when Mel asked me to be the manager of their boxing studio there was no doubt and only ecxitment.
Ann Marie Harkins
Marketing Queen
As Marketing Queen at Everybody's Playground, I am driven by a passion for promoting inclusivity and connection. With a background in psychology, behavior, and human development and extensive experience in program developent, social media management, and community engagmenet, I work to amplify our mission of creating a welcoming space for all. I ensure our messaging resonates with our diverse community, celebrating each individual's journey. I am committed to showcasing Everybody's Playground as a place where fitness and self-expression thrive in an environment of respect and empowerment.​
Christian
Coach
TBD