The Citadel Story
From the Frozen North
Listen, I didn't start this place to build just another cookie-cutter gym. Back in 2018, after spending years bouncing between commercial fitness chains and stuffy combat gyms, I realized something was missing.
Growing up in northern BC, winters taught me that real strength isn't just about looking good - it's about being functional when it counts. When you're hauling firewood in -30 weather or helping a buddy move furniture up three flights of stairs, that's when you know if your training actually means something.
I spent a decade training in mixed martial arts, strongman competitions, and functional fitness circuits. Competed in some regional strongman events, got my ass kicked plenty of times, learned what actually works versus what just looks cool on Instagram.
Frostshard Citadel came together in a old warehouse space that nobody wanted. We built most of the equipment ourselves - welded sleds, concrete-filled logs, battle ropes hung from steel beams. The vibe here isn't polished or pretentious. It's raw, it's challenging, and it's real.
Every person who walks through that door isn't just a client or a membership number. You're joining something that'll push you past what you thought possible. No judgment, no egos - just hard work and people who've got your back.
- Marcus Thornberg, Founder & Head Coach
The Warrior Ethos
We're not here to coddle anyone or sell you magic transformations. Our mission is straightforward - help you build strength that actually matters in the real world.
What We Stand For:
- ✦ Functional strength over mirror muscles
- ✦ Mental toughness built through real challenges
- ✦ Community support without the fake positivity
- ✦ Training methods that've stood the test of time
- ✦ Honest coaching that'll call you out when needed
We're about preparation, resilience, and becoming someone who can handle whatever life throws at you. That's the warrior mindset - not some romanticized BS, but genuine capability.
Citadel Milestones
The Beginning
Opened doors with 12 founding members in a 2,000 sq ft warehouse. Just kettlebells, sandbags, and a hell of a lot of determination.
First Competition
Hosted our first in-house strongman event. 47 competitors showed up. Realized we had something special brewing.
Outdoor Training Era
Pandemic hit. Moved training outdoors to the parking lot and nearby trails. Nobody quit - everyone adapted. That's when the warrior ethos really solidified.
Expansion
Doubled our space to 4,500 sq ft. Added proper combat training area, more equipment, recovery zone. Membership hit 150.
Coaching Team Grows
Brought on three additional coaches - all with combat sports backgrounds and real-world experience. No fitness influencers here.
Community Outreach
Started free weekend classes for first responders and veterans. Some things are bigger than business.
Regional Recognition
Voted Best Functional Fitness Gym in North Van. Had members compete at provincial strongman championships - brought home hardware.
The Journey Continues
Over 250 active members. Still the same raw warehouse vibe. Still pushing limits every damn day.
Ready to Join the Ranks?
We're not for everyone, and that's okay. But if you're tired of soft workouts and want to build real capability, let's talk.
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