How It Started

Look, I'm not gonna feed you some cookie-cutter origin story. Started this place back in 2019 'cause I was tired of seeing folks wasting their time in gyms that didn't push 'em hard enough.

Spent 12 years coaching fighters, training athletes, and honestly? Got sick of the fluff. Too many places talking about "wellness journeys" when what people really needed was someone to tell 'em the truth and show 'em how to work.

Built Obsidrix Citadel with one thing in mind - create a space where people can actually test themselves. No judgment, no BS, just real work with real results. We're not for everyone, and that's the point.

Every piece of equipment here? Hand-picked. Every coach? Been through hell and back in their own training. We don't hire pretty faces who memorized a cert manual - our team's been in the trenches.

- Marcus Chen, Founder & Head Coach

What We're About

We're not trying to be your friend or sell you some feel-good experience. We're here to make you stronger, faster, and tougher than you were yesterday. That's it.

Real Training, Zero Fluff

We're not here to hold your hand through some watered-down workout. You'll lift heavy, move fast, and push limits you didn't know you had. Programming's designed by people who've actually done this stuff at high levels.

Combat-Ready Mindset

Whether you're stepping into a cage or just want that edge in life, we train you like a fighter. It's not about aggression - it's about discipline, resilience, and knowing you can handle whatever comes at you.

Community That Gets It

The people here aren't looking for an easy time. They show up, put in work, and respect the grind. You'll find more support here than any "positive vibes only" gym 'cause everyone knows what it takes.

Equipment That Matters

Got the best bars, plates, and gear Vancouver's got to offer. No cheap stuff that'll break down or mess up your form. When you're moving serious weight, the equipment better be up to the task.

Safety Through Skill

Yeah, we train hard, but we're not idiots about it. Proper form, smart progression, and coaches who know when to push and when to pull back. Getting hurt 'cause of ego or bad technique? Not on our watch.

The Journey So Far

March 2019 - The Beginning

Opened the doors with 800 square feet and a dream. Had maybe 15 members who believed in what we were building. Started with the basics - barbells, plates, and a whole lotta attitude.

November 2019 - First Expansion

Word got around fast. Added another 600 square feet, brought in combat training equipment, and hired two more coaches. Members started seeing results they couldn't get anywhere else.

June 2020 - Competition Team Launch

Started prepping athletes for actual competition. First powerlifting meet had three of our members take gold in their weight classes. That's when people started taking us seriously.

February 2022 - New Location

Moved to our current 3,200 sq ft facility on Granville. Finally had room to do things right - dedicated Olympic lifting platforms, full combat area, recovery zone. This is what we'd been working toward.

August 2023 - Performance Lab Added

Brought in nutrition coaching and recovery optimization. Realized you can't just beat people up in training - gotta help 'em rebuild stronger. Game changer for our athletes.

March 2024 - Community Milestone

Hit 250 active members. More importantly, watched our community raise over $12K for local youth sports programs. Strength's gotta mean something beyond the gym walls.

October 2025 - Where We Are Now

Running at full capacity with a waitlist. Got athletes competing at provincial and national levels. But what matters most? The accountant who deadlifted 405 for the first time. The mom who can finally keep up with her kids. That's the real win.

What People Are Saying

Real talk from real members - no BS testimonials

"Tried three other gyms before this one. None of 'em pushed me like Obsidrix does. Lost 35 pounds, added 80 pounds to my deadlift, and honestly just feel better about myself. Marcus doesn't let you slack off but he knows when to dial it back too."

- James R., Member since 2021

"Was nervous walking in 'cause I'm not some athlete. But nobody here cares what level you're at - they just care that you show up and work. Six months in and I'm doing things I never thought possible. The community's legit."

- Sarah M., Member since 2023

"Competed at provincials last year and took second in my division. Wouldn't have gotten there without the programming here. These guys know their stuff and they're not just reading off some template. Worth every penny."

- David K., Competition Team Member

"The nutrition coaching changed everything for me. Wasn't just about workouts - learning how to eat right and recover properly made all the difference. Down two dress sizes and actually have energy now. Can't recommend this place enough."

- Michelle T., Member since 2022