A renowned fitness coach and wellness advocate, Oluchukwu Okeke, has formally declared her intention to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest step aerobics marathon, in what she describes as a mission to showcase Nigeria’s strength, resilience, and global potential.
In a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Sunday, Okeke — founder of Jemad Fitness — disclosed that the attempt, themed “Rise Beyond Limits,” is scheduled to take place in December 2025.
According to her, the challenge is designed not only as a display of endurance but also as a platform to inspire conversations around resilience, motherhood, and the transformative power of movement as a form of healing and empowerment.
Recounting her personal journey, Okeke revealed that her passion for aerobics was born out of a quest for recovery after experiencing postpartum depression.
“Stepping became my therapy. Each move reminded me that I was still here, still strong, and still capable of becoming more,” she said.
“This record attempt is not just about endurance; it’s about hope. I want women to know that they can rise again, no matter what they’ve faced.”
Okeke further explained that she began intensive preparation for the feat in June 2024, adopting significant lifestyle modifications to optimise her physical and mental performance.
“My meals have been strictly healthy and natural for the past three months. We also brought a dietitian on board to ensure proper nutrition and balance throughout training,” she stated.
She added that rest and recovery form an integral part of her preparation process.
“I make sure to get at least seven hours of sleep each night and reduce screen time to help with recovery and focus,” she noted.
To ensure a safe and successful record attempt, Okeke confirmed that she is working closely with a team of coaches and medical professionals overseeing her training and wellbeing.
As stipulated by the Guinness World Records guidelines, participants in such endurance challenges are permitted a five-minute rest period for every continuously completed hour of activity. These breaks may be accumulated, allowing for up to 20 minutes of rest after four consecutive hours of exercise; however, any additional minutes are only credited once another full hour of activity is completed.
Okeke’s forthcoming attempt follows a growing list of Nigerians who have earned global recognition for record-breaking endurance challenges, reinforcing the nation’s rising presence in the fitness and wellness space.#newsafro_
