A thumping beat blares from the corners of the room as students in EP Massey’s fitness studio throw punches at invisible opponents. “Our focus for today is on the butt and legs,” he tells the class. “We’re going to work them hard!”

He’s not joking. The approximately 20 students in the class are sweating and grimacing in no time.

“Okay, we’re done with the warm-up,” Massey announces. Groans of disbelief are heard, but no one gives up. “Kick that door down!” he shouts as the class learns proper kicking techniques. “I want to hear you!” he bellows as they count repetitions. Massey is like a drill sergeant pushing his unit to their limits – a caring drill sergeant, that is.

Along with the encouragement to push harder, go further, and hang in there for just one more set, there is a nurturing motivation that follows. “We’re all winners today,” he tells them as they wind down after a grueling hour-long kickboxing session. “No one has given up.”

The ’70s hit song “Celebration” pulses in the background, reinforcing the supportive words he ensures every student hears before they leave.

“He really motivates his clients,” says employee and client Melinda Myers. “And he gets results; that’s why they like him.”

New client Lois Tucci concurs. She and her husband James came in search of better health, and what they found, she says, was support and motivation to improve their well-being. “Both of us are highly motivated to do better each day,” she says, even if it only means eating a little healthier or walking to the mailbox.

What’s Massey’s secret? “I have a knack for motivating people,” EP modestly admits. The 36-year-old has been working out since he was 12 years old, and it shows. His physique resembles something the famous sculptor Rodin might have created.

When he discusses his work, Massey exudes genuine concern for the people who seek his help. “Usually, the first goal I have is to get people to believe that they can achieve whatever goal they have,” Massey says. “Confidence is key. I don’t even want to hear people say they can’t do it!” So they keep coming back for more, and each time they return, they are in better shape than the last time. Like EP, a beaming Tucci declares, “You’re not a failure because you keep coming.”

Now, a little over a year since its opening, Massey’s New Body is looking to expand. Once permits are approved, he hopes to open a larger studio and hire more staff to accommodate his growing clientele. Massey says his future goal is to blend family, business, and love for the community. He intends to offer senior-oriented discounts and classes, as well as the “Energy to Burn” program for kids in local schools. “I don’t want to be selfish,” he says. “I want to give back to the people who have supported me. That’s what I’m all about; my goal is to help people.” With 43 regular clients and counting, his current studio is bursting at the seams, and his schedule is stretched thin. “It’s tough getting people in shape and running a business,” he says, but quickly adds, “I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Before opening his own business, he contracted with Gold’s Gym as a certified (ACE) personal trainer. Massey felt that something was missing in large gym environments, which motivated him to establish his own studio. “My facilities will always be small,” he says. “It’s based on progress and program, not gym equipment.”

His studio isn’t crammed with massive pieces of equipment. It features a few treadmills, free weights, punching bags, medicine balls, and a large rubber ball neatly tucked into the wall. Another key to his success is teaching his clients to prioritize “me” time. “You have to be somewhat selfish to get in shape,” he advises. “You need to take time to focus on yourself.”

Although goals may vary from person to person, Massey’s goal remains consistent: to help people reach their desired destinations. He aims to set an example not only with his body but also with his mindset. “I have my insecurities too,” he confides. “Otherwise, I wouldn’t be working out. I don’t encourage people to become ‘hard bodies’; I encourage them to find happiness within themselves.

With a warm smile, Massey concludes, “I try to make every person feel like they belong here, regardless of their starting point. We’re all here for the same reason.”