About Us | Pyrethorn Realm Fitness - Vancouver's Combat & HIIT Specialists

Marcus Chen

Founder & Head Coach

EST. 2018

Built From the Ground Up

Look, I'll be straight with you - Pyrethorn Realm wasn't born from some corporate boardroom or fancy business plan. This place came from years of frustration with cookie-cutter gyms that treat everyone like they're the same person.

Back in 2018, I was coaching out of a cramped garage on Commercial Drive. Had maybe five clients who were tired of the same boring routines at big-box gyms. We'd train in the rain, the cold, didn't matter. Those folks showed up because they wanted real results, not Instagram workouts.

Fast forward to today - we've built something special here. A space where you can throw punches, flip tires, push sleds, and actually feel like you're training for something that matters. Whether you're prepping for your first amateur fight or just wanna move better in everyday life, we've got your back.

I spent 12 years competing in MMA and kickboxing. Got my certifications in strength & conditioning, functional movement, and sports nutrition - not because I needed letters after my name, but because I wanted to actually know my stuff. Can't coach what you haven't lived.

What We're Really About

We're not here to sell you miracle transformations or make you feel bad about where you're at. Our mission's simple - give you the tools, knowledge, and environment to become a stronger, more capable version of yourself. Real training for real people who want real results.

No judgement, no ego, just hard work and honest coaching.

How We Got Here

2018

The Garage Days

Started training clients out of a 400 sq ft garage. No fancy equipment - just kettlebells, a heavy bag, and whole lot of determination. Those early members are still with us today, which says something.

2019

First Real Location

Moved into our first commercial space - 2,000 sq ft on Commercial Drive. Finally had room for proper boxing rings and functional training zones. Membership grew to 75 people who weren't afraid to get their hands dirty.

2020

Weathering the Storm

Yeah, that year. Had to pivot hard - took our coaching online, ran outdoor training sessions in all weather. Our community showed up when it mattered most. That's when I knew we'd built something that actually meant something to people.

2022

Major Expansion

Doubled our space to 4,500 sq ft. Added dedicated MMA training area, upgraded all our equipment, brought on three more coaches. Started offering specialized programs for athletes and first responders.

2024

Community Growth

Hit 200+ active members. Launched our athletic performance program that's now working with local college athletes. Started hosting monthly charity workouts that've raised over $15K for local youth sports programs.

2025

Right Now

Still grinding every day. We've got members competing at regional and national levels in combat sports, others who've completely changed their relationship with fitness. That's what keeps us going - watching people surprise themselves with what they're capable of.

Certified. Tested. Proven.

We don't just talk the talk. Every coach on our team has put in the hours, earned their stripes, and continues to train and compete. Here's what backs up our coaching:

NASM-CPT

Certified Personal Trainer

CSCS

Strength & Conditioning Specialist

FMS Level 2

Functional Movement Systems

HIIT Specialist

Advanced Interval Training

PN Level 2

Precision Nutrition Coaching

Boxing Coach

USA Boxing Certified

MMA Coach

Mixed Martial Arts Instructor

Kickboxing

ISKA Certified Instructor

How We Roll

No BS Approach

We're gonna tell you the truth, even when it's not what you wanna hear. Results come from consistency and hard work, not magic pills or quick fixes.

Everyone's Welcome

Don't care if you're a pro athlete or haven't worked out in 20 years. If you're willing to show up and put in the work, you belong here.

Community First

This isn't just a gym - it's where friendships are built, where people push each other to be better. We celebrate everyone's wins, no matter how small.

Keep Learning

The fitness world's always evolving. Our coaches stay on top of new research and techniques so you get the best training possible.

Our Story