Award-winning musician Themba Sekowe, popularly known as DJ Maphorisa, is putting in the work behind the scenes as he prepares for one of his biggest upcoming performances — but according to his trainer, his fitness journey is not about losing weight or gaining muscle.
Also see: WATCH: DJ Maphorisa’s warm welcome melts hearts
The amapiano star has been training with fitness expert and reality TV personality MJ Maponya, who recently gave fans a glimpse into their sessions. MJ revealed that the programme is designed to improve Maphorisa’s strength, flexibility and endurance ahead of the Scorpion Kings Live show with Kabza De Small.
DJ Maphorisa’s fitness plan focuses on endurance
Speaking to TshisaLIVE, MJ explained that Maphorisa’s training is centred on performance rather than aesthetics.
The trainer said their sessions focus on strength, flexibility, efficiency and endurance, with longer repetitions forming part of the programme.
“It’s not about losing weight or gaining muscle. It’s about having endurance.”
MJ said Maphorisa’s demanding career requires him to have enough stamina to perform on stage while also managing his responsibilities as a CEO.
The trainer also pays particular attention to Maphorisa’s lower back because of his irregular schedule and long nights.
Also see: MJ Maponya makes it official by proposing marriage to his girlfriend
Preparing DJ Maphorisa for the stage
MJ’s goal is to ensure that Maphorisa can maintain his energy throughout demanding live performances.
The fitness expert said they incorporate plenty of cardio and running into the sessions, adding that Maphorisa enjoys running and is good at it.
The approach is similar to the preparation Maponya used when working with Cassper Nyovest ahead of his Global Citizen performance. According to Maponya, the sports science-based preparation helped focus on performance and energy.
A nearly decade-long fitness partnership
MJ and Maphorisa have worked together for several years. The trainer revealed that they first connected in 2018, when he was working with Major League DJz, who referred Maphorisa to him.
Since then, Maphorisa has remained one of his longstanding clients.
With the Scorpion Kings Live concert scheduled for 19 September 2026, the training is ultimately about making sure the amapiano heavyweight has the stamina to deliver an energetic performance.
For Maphorisa, the gym sessions therefore appear to be less about chasing a particular body shape and more about building the strength and endurance needed to keep up with life on stage, reported Briefly News.
Also see: DJ Maphorisa reading self-help books draws mixed reviews
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!
