PASSION FOR HEALTH BUILDS BUSINESS.

BUSINESS NAME: The Wellness Center at Powerhouse Gym

BUSINESS ADDRESS: 20914 Nordhoff St. #102, Chatsworth, CA 91311

PHONE: [phone]

E-MAIL: sportschirodoc(at)gmail.com

OWNER: Ross Gould

ESTABLISHED: 1993

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES: Six

DESCRIBE YOUR BUSINESS: We provide alternative treatments for back pain, headaches and sports injuries. The services provided include chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, prescript`ion and foot orthotics, all in a gym environment.

IS THIS YOUR FIRST BUSINESS? Yes

WHY DID YOU START THIS BUSINESS? Because I have a passion for staying healthy and helping as many people as possible get well with my chiropractic therapy.

WHERE DID YOU GET THE IDEA? Having an office in a gym, I saw the need for people needing these different kinds of services.

HOW LONG WAS IT FROM CONCEPT TO OPENING? Twelve to 18 months. It's been an evolving process in which we add new amenities as they emerge.

WHAT DID YOU DO DURING THAT TIME? Constant learning through practice and continued education. Lots of grass-roots marketing at fairs, networking groups and farmers markets.

WHAT WERE YOUR STARTUP COSTS AND HOW DID YOU FINANCE THE BUSINESS? When I first started, I put $5,000 down and paid $45,000 over the next two years. But I was successful enough to pay it off in 12 months and got a $5,000 discount.

WHO DID YOU RELY ON FOR ADVICE? Friends in the business and courses on business management. And luck!

WHAT HADN'T YOU CONSIDERED BEFORE OPENING? Overhead. And how to get new patients.

WHAT IS YOUR EXPECTED REVENUE THIS YEAR? $300,000

WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE COMPANY? To grow by 25 percent within the next 12 months, to become known in the community for providing the best care and to offer a variety of services in a fun and professional environment.

CAPTION(S):

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Photo:

(color) Ross Gould, owner of The Wellness Center at Powerhouse Gym, gives a back massage to patient Paula Cunningham in his Chatsworth business that provides alternative medical treatment for back pain, headaches and sports injuries.

Michael Owen Baker/Staff Photographer