From the Ground Up
Look, I didn't start HX Citadel because I wanted to run another cookie-cutter gym. Back in 2018, after spending 12 years bouncing between commercial fitness centers and MMA gyms across BC, I got tired of the same old garbage - overpriced memberships, underqualified coaches, and zero real community.
I'd been coaching functional training and combat sports since 2010, worked with everyone from complete beginners to competitive fighters. What I noticed? People don't need fancy equipment or Instagram-worthy facilities. They need honest coaching, programming that actually works, and a place where they're not just another membership number.
So I scraped together everything I had, found this spot on Powell Street, and built what I wish existed when I started training. No frills, no BS - just solid coaching, quality equipment, and real people pushing each other to get better every single day.
What We're Really About
We're not here to sell you miracle transformations or 30-day shred programs. Real strength - physical and mental - takes time, consistency, and a willingness to do the work even when it sucks.
The Beginning
Opened our doors with 8 members, two coaches, and a whole lot of second-hand equipment. Those first folks? Half of 'em still train here.
Pushing Through
Yeah, the pandemic hit hard. We pivoted to outdoor sessions in the parking lot, online coaching, whatever it took. Our community showed up and we survived when others didn't.
Expansion
Added 2,000 sq ft and built out a dedicated combat sports area. Brought on three more coaches who actually know their stuff. Started running nutrition coaching because too many people were training hard but eating like crap.
Today
Over 200 members, six full-time coaches, and we're still that same no-nonsense gym we started as. Just with better equipment and way more amazing people.
Our Philosophy
- Quality coaching beats fancy equipment every time
- Everyone starts somewhere - we've all been beginners
- Consistency and effort matter more than genetics
- Community support makes the difference on tough days
- We're building strength for life, not just the gym
