MAXWELL Joseph Chukwuma, a young and vibrant entrepreneur from Anambra State but born and raised in Jos, Plateau State, has nurtured a lifelong dream of becoming a professional masseur, physiotherapist and gym instructor. Today, he is living out that dream and carving a niche in the health and fitness industry. In this interview with LUCY CHINDABA, he shares his journey, challenges and aspirations. Excerpts:
Please, can you introduce yourself?
My name is Joseph Maxwell Chukwuma. I am from Anambra State but was born and brought up in Jos. I studied Public Administration at the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, where I obtained a National Diploma. However, that was not my passion. After graduation, I pursued my true dream of becoming a professional masseur, physiotherapist and gym instructor.
What has been your working experience?
I’ve worked in several places, including Chilas, Crispan at Zaramaganda Road and White Bolton Hotel in Abuja, where I spent about a year. In these roles, I functioned as a professional gym instructor, physiotherapist and masseur.
For clarity, what does the word ‘masseur’ mean?
A masseur simply means a massage therapist. It involves physiotherapy and massage on the muscles to help people feel better, regain strength and maintain their health.
So who are your clients?
At the moment, I have a physiotherapy client who suffered a stroke. We’ve been working together for about eight months, and he is currently at stage five of recovery. Physiotherapy is progressive—it has about 10 stages—and each stage has different sets of workouts to improve the body. We still have around eight more months to complete the process, but his progress so far is encouraging.
How did you become a masseur and physiotherapist?
It has always been my dream to help people with joint pains and other health challenges. The joy of seeing smiles on my clients’ faces after a successful session gives me great satisfaction. Initially, I studied online and later enrolled in a degree programme in physiotherapy that lasted one year and eight months. I earned a certificate and further took classes with Beyond Bliss for two years. With this training, I can confidently call myself a professional. I am also pursuing additional courses that will further enhance my skills.
Was this always your childhood dream?
Yes, I’ve always loved anything fitness-related. I grew up watching people do aerobics and workout routines on television, and I always said to myself: ” I want to be like them, but better.” Helping people has always given me joy, and this passion drove me into fitness and physiotherapy.
How would you describe your journey so far?
So far, it has been fulfilling. My career has connected me with many people who now insist that I remain their personal instructor. For me, this is truly a dream come true.
Do you own this facility or work in partnership?
I currently manage the physiotherapy and gym sections of the facility. Other partners handle additional services such as a hair salon, spa, pedicure, barbing salon, facial care, and a store that sells perfumes, nightwear, skincare products, and other items.
How would you describe patronage so far?
If I were to rate it, I’ d give it 85 out of 100. Although the location is in a somewhat hidden area, people are still drawn to it. They want to see what Beyond Bliss has to offer. Patronage has been encouraging, with clients coming for body scrubbing, massages and workout sessions.
What advice would you give people about health and fitness?
My advice is simple: as you eat daily—Monday through Friday—you should also make time to burn those calories. Come out at least on weekends to exercise, keep fit, and allow your body to function properly. Exercise helps blood circulation and improves general wellbeing. Supporting fitness centres is also a way of investing in your own health.
What challenges have you faced?
Like any business, there have been challenges. Some clients initially complained that certain services did not meet their expectations. We took the feedback seriously, corrected the lapses, and worked to improve customer satisfaction. Nobody is perfect, but we strive to keep getting better.
Do you see yourself expanding beyond your current role?
Yes, I have a dream of owning one of the biggest gyms in Nigeria. Many existing gyms lack modern equipment, and I want to change that. Beyond knowing how to do my job well, I believe the right equipment is essential to attract and serve clients better. My ultimate goal is to establish my own fully equipped fitness company.