Profile 9: Malika Joseph, Fitness Studio Owner

This week it YWOB, Caribbean's pleasure to feature an award nominee of the Caribbean Youth Entrepreneurship Awards, Ms. Malika Joseph. She is founder and trainer at P.U.S.H. Fitness Studio. 

Enjoy!



 1.  Describe yourself in no more than three sentences, one if it is possible. 

I am a mom. A young professional, an entrepreneur, a mentor, aspiring to inspire and empower young women within my community and by extension my society. 

2.  Share with us what your business is about?
 PUSH Fitness Studio is a Spinning/ Indoor Cycling Studio.  Indoor cycling is an intense cardio workout done on stationery bikes. An hour of spin class burns between 500-700 calories. This is a low impact exercise,  meaning the workout does not affect joints and and ligaments, you get to burn fat with little pressure on your body and reduces the risk of injury. Spinning is great for all age groups. What we offer at PUSH Fitness Studio is a fun way to get in shape, build stamina and increase fitness. The classes are exciting, pumped with music, coupled with fun and  motivational instructors that push you to give your best.

3.  What is the main factor that got you involved or led you into business/entrepreneurship?

I did spinning while I pursued my studies in Mexico, and after returning I was always looking for a gym that offered spin classes, there were none in St. Vincent. Apart from this, I've always wanted to own my own business. This particular idea, however came about because I saw that there are persons, specifically women out there who are willing or wanting to exercise, lose weight or simply keep fit, but there was not an existing avenue for them to do so. Working out at home by yourself takes a lot of dedication and discipline, and frankly most persons prefer to go an establishment and join a group to exercise. I also realized that the gyms here at home were not very female friendly and if you lack a little self confidence, or you're concerned about your personal appearance then a place filled with young well toned, young men lifting and dropping weights, grunting and growling, flexing in the mirrors is the last place you want to be.  All of the above contributed to why PUSH was started.

4.  What is your number 1 business principle?

Customer Satisfaction. I want my clients to feel comfortable, and enjoy their experience at PUSH fitness. Before you start our classes we ask about your goals, our mission is to help you achieve those goals.

5.  How critical is creativity in the running of your business?

In this field of business creativity is essential. A spin class can get very boring if its not done right. At PUSH we are constantly coming up with different ways to keep the classes exciting. Every instructor has a different style and adds his/her own touch of fun to their class.
6.  What is the hardest lesson learnt in business so far?
Making the sacrifice. It wasn't until recently that I realized that since I got the keys to the location, I have not seen my home before 5 pm on a weekday. This will change eventually; right now the business is still in the start up phase. But there is a lot of time and dedication required if you want to turn an idea into a reality.

 7.   Do you think that your experience is different in any way than a male in the same type of business? Please explain.No and yes.  I actually think I have the advantage in reaching women because it's easier as a woman to get other women motivated and enthusiastic about exercise and fitness. 

8.  List three things you just can’t go without?
Food. Laughter and Lip balm.

9.  Who or What is your greatest motivation?
My greatest motivation are the reviews I get from my clients on a daily basis, the way they still smile after what would be deemed a tough class. I get to see the look of satisfaction and accomplishment on their faces when they complete a class, and for me that's gratifying and all the motivation I need. 

Another trainer motivating clients to burn.

10.  Is there any advice you would like to share to other young women hoping to start or just starting out in business?
Do what you love. Let your business be something you are passionate about. Something that you love and excites you when you think about it, something that is on your mind day and night, this is what shields you from the hardships when they come, knowing that this is something that you have to see through, a dream that you absolutely cannot give up on.
Bonus Question: “What, in your opinion, is the best thing about being female?

Being able to relate to others. The woman represents the softer, more gentle of the sexes. Therefore we are more approachable. We are usually the first "go to" person, therefore we have the power to convict, persuade, inspire, lead, guide, protect, nurture those that are drawn to us seeking guidance, comfort or counsel.

 Contact:
Address:       2nd Floor, Rodgers Building,  Bay Street, Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Facebook:    PUSH Fitness Studio    
Instagram:   pushfitnesssvg
Tel #:               784 -493-2514