In the heart of Bochum, Germany, the Kirchhoff family has been shaping physiotherapy for three generations. Today, Susanne Kirchhoff and her son Maurice run a state-of-the-art practice that feels more like a modern gym than a traditional clinic. A recent renovation transformed part of their facility into a bright, open training area—also serving as a showcase for other practice owners curious about the future of physiotherapy.
Hands-On? No, Hands-Off
Traditional physiotherapy has long centered on hands-on methods—manual techniques such as massage, mobilization, and passive stretching performed directly by the therapist. While effective, these treatments demand significant physical effort and limit how many patients a therapist can see at once.
Today, more and more physiotherapists are embracing a hands-off, exercise-focused approach. Physio Kirchhoff is among those leading this shift. Instead of relying primarily on manual therapy, the team emphasizes guided movement, specialized equipment, and active patient participation. By integrating technology and structured exercise programs, therapists can reduce physical strain, work more efficiently, and achieve better outcomes for both patients and practitioners.
Maurice notes:
Clients often said, “Hands-on? No, hands-off.” One client even mentioned, “You have the best equipment—you should make the most of it.” Some clients try other gyms with lower fees, but many eventually return to us, saying they appreciate our welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and professional environment that goes beyond typical gym culture.
This facility uses HUR strength training machines, chosen for their air resistance technology, quiet operation, integrated software, and space-saving design. Patients register with a wristband, receive an introduction, and train independently, while therapists monitor progress via tablets. Maurice explains the difference it makes:
In Germany, a single hands-on therapy session earns €25 but can be physically exhausting. Here, I oversee four or five clients simultaneously and simply stand, smile, and guide them. The result? Everyone leaves satisfied and energized.
The facility spans two floors, carefully designed for accessibility and efficiency.
A Two-Floor Model for Accessible Therapy
The facility spans two floors, carefully designed for accessibility and efficiency. The first floor caters to patients with access challenges, featuring a slightly smaller gym with six HUR strength training machines, HUR Pulley, and an HUR Offload Unweighing Device. The second floor houses a larger training area with nine HUR machines, two HUR pulleys, and cardio equipment. This setup allows patients of all abilities to train safely and comfortably under professional supervision.
Prioritizing Long-Term Health and Independence
Physio Kirchhoff’s approach is about more than efficiency—it’s about patient well-being. Group classes, membership programs, and personalized supervision create an inclusive environment that encourages adherence. Patients recover from injuries, like knee problems, while learning exercises to maintain mobility and strength at home. Susanne explains:
We consistently advise our patients: follow this regimen at home, and you can maintain your health for the next five years. Naturally, some are initially hesitant, hoping for a quick fix. That’s their choice. But we remain steadfast in our commitment to methods that genuinely ensure long-term, sustainable results.
Knee rehabilitation illustrates the approach perfectly. The team works to restore quality of life, helping patients stay mobile and independent. Even hesitant patients are welcomed at their own pace, with consistent support available.
The second floor houses a larger training area with 9 HUR machines, 2 HUR pulleys, and cardio equipment.
Assessments and Motivation
New clients begin with a comprehensive baseline assessment, and their progress is reviewed every 3–4 months.
Observing tangible improvements helps maintain motivation; clients do not merely feel changes—they can actually see them. This awareness encourages clients to remain committed to the program.
With this structured approach, clients are not simply treated; they are guided toward stronger, healthier physical fitness that endures for years to come.
Physio Kirchhoff’s approach is about more than efficiency—it’s about patient well-being.
Delivering Efficient Care at Scale
On a typical day, seven physiotherapists manage around 70 patients, balancing group sessions with hands-on therapy as needed. Classes run every hour on both floors, with around eight people per session. Alongside these group activities, therapists provide individual support and face-to-face care.
Each therapist sees 35-45 clients per day. We mix hands-on therapy and group exercise throughout the day. Memberships allow flexible attendance, but we keep class sizes manageable. It’s simple, but it works beautifully.
Rapid growth does pose challenges. With 20–30 new members joining at once, classes sometimes swell beyond the ideal size. The team actively works to balance growth with patient comfort. Yet even with these hurdles, the hands-off model proved immediately successful—programs filled within three months, and patient satisfaction was high.
Susanne Kirchhoff and her son Maurice operate a top-notch practice that feels more like a modern gym than a traditional clinic
A Model for the Future
Today, the practice treats roughly 500 patients per month in its Medical Training Therapy area and has become a reference site for HUR, attracting visitors from across Germany and beyond. Plans are underway to expand with a second training area, while strong staff retention ensures ongoing growth.
By integrating technology, patient education, and a forward-thinking therapy model, Physio Kirchhoff has made physiotherapy sustainable, patient-centered, and transformative—showing that modern care goes beyond treating injuries to supporting long-term health.
Flexible memberships allow patients to train at their own pace under professional guidance, while therapists can reduce physical strain and supervise multiple clients efficiently.
Physio Kirchhoff offers a compelling glimpse into the future of physiotherapy: a proactive, personalized, and technology-supported approach focused on prevention and lasting well-being.
In September 2025, a delegation from Finland, Japan, Malaysia, China, Romania, and Hungary visited Germany to explore physiotherapy practices and exchange insights on best practices.