About Us - Dark Forge Zenitho | Vancouver's Premier Strength & Combat Sports Gym

Our Mission

At Dark Forge Zenitho, we believe that true strength is forged in the darkest moments of challenge and perseverance. Our mission is to provide an unparalleled training environment where athletes, fighters, and fitness enthusiasts push beyond their limits to reach their personal zenith.

We combine cutting-edge strength training methodologies with combat sports expertise to create warriors who are physically dominant, mentally resilient, and technically superior. Every session in our facility is designed to transform you into the strongest version of yourself.

We don't just build bodies—we forge champions, one rep at a time.

Our Story

The Beginning

Founded in 2018 in the heart of Vancouver's industrial district, Dark Forge Zenitho was born from a vision to create a training sanctuary that rejected the commercial gym culture. Our founders, former professional MMA fighters and Olympic weightlifters, wanted a space where serious athletes could train without distractions.

What started as a 3,000 square foot warehouse has grown into Vancouver's most respected strength and combat sports facility, serving over 500 dedicated members who share our commitment to excellence.

Our Philosophy

The "Dark Forge" represents the crucible where raw potential is transformed into refined strength. The "Zenitho" embodies the pinnacle—the highest point of achievement. Together, they symbolize our commitment to guiding every member through their personal transformation.

We've trained provincial champions, national competitors, and everyday heroes who simply want to be their best. Our gritty, no-nonsense approach has made us the destination for those who take their training seriously.

Our Core Values

Intensity

We believe in training with purpose and pushing boundaries every single session.

Integrity

Honest coaching, genuine results, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

Community

A brotherhood and sisterhood of athletes who support and challenge each other.

Excellence

Relentless pursuit of improvement in every aspect of training and performance.

Meet Our Coaches

Our coaching staff consists of elite athletes, certified specialists, and combat sports veterans dedicated to your transformation.

Marcus Stone

Head Coach & Co-Founder

Former UFC fighter with 15 years of combat sports experience. NSCA-CSCS certified and specialized in strength conditioning for fighters. Marcus has trained multiple provincial champions and brings an unmatched intensity to every session.

MMA Strength Training Conditioning

Sofia Reyes

Olympic Weightlifting Coach

National-level Olympic weightlifter and USAW Level 2 certified coach. Sofia competed at the Pan American Championships and brings technical precision to lifting. She's transformed dozens of athletes into powerful, explosive performers.

Olympic Lifting Mobility Technique

James "Iron" Chen

Combat Sports Director

Professional boxer with 45 amateur fights and 12 pro bouts. James holds black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. His striking fundamentals and fight IQ have developed countless competitive fighters and self-defense practitioners.

Boxing Muay Thai BJJ

Alexis Hart

Nutrition & Recovery Specialist

Registered Dietitian and Precision Nutrition Level 2 coach. Alexis worked with professional athletes for 8 years before joining Dark Forge. She creates sustainable nutrition strategies that fuel performance and optimize recovery for maximum gains.

Nutrition Recovery Performance

Derek Volkoff

Powerlifting Specialist

Elite-level powerlifter with a 2,100 lb total at 220 lbs. Derek has competed nationally for over a decade and holds provincial records. His systematic approach to strength has helped members add hundreds of pounds to their totals.

Powerlifting Raw Strength Programming

Maya Patel

Mobility & Movement Coach

Certified FRC Mobility Specialist and former professional dancer. Maya bridges the gap between strength and flexibility, helping athletes move better, prevent injuries, and unlock new levels of performance through intelligent mobility work.

Mobility Injury Prevention Movement

Our Facility

15,000 square feet of industrial-grade training space designed for serious athletes. Raw, unpolished, and equipped with everything you need to forge your peak.

Strength Training Zone

Competition-grade platforms, power racks, and specialty bars

Combat Sports Arena

Full-size boxing ring, heavy bags, and striking stations

Olympic Lifting Area

Eleiko plates, competition bars, and professional platforms

Conditioning Zone

Assault bikes, rowers, sleds, and metabolic equipment

Recovery Studio

Dedicated space for mobility work, stretching, and recovery

Private Training Rooms

Exclusive spaces for one-on-one coaching sessions

About Dark Forge Zenitho