Founder of Krython Bastion

Marcus Chen

Founder & Head Coach

Our Story

Started this place back in 2018 after spending way too many years bouncing between cookie-cutter gyms that didn't get it. You know the type - all flash, zero substance.

I've been training fighters and athletes for over 15 years, and honestly got tired of seeing people waste their time on equipment they don't need and programs that don't deliver. So I figured, why not build something different? A spot where real training happens - the kind that actually translates to life outside these walls.

Krython Bastion isn't about fancy machines or Instagram-worthy setups. It's about building functional strength that matters. Whether you're stepping into the ring or just want to move better in your daily grind, we've got your back. No fluff, no BS - just solid programming and a community that'll push you to be better.

We've helped everyone from weekend warriors to professional fighters. Some folks come in thinking they need to look a certain way, but they leave realizing they're capable of way more than they thought. That's what keeps me doing this.

7+

Years Strong

500+

Members

12

Pro Athletes

What We're All About

These aren't corporate talking points - this is literally how we run things every single day.

Real Training

We're not here to sell you supplements or get you to pose for selfies. Every program we design has a purpose - building strength that works in the real world, not just in a controlled gym setting.

Community First

Yeah, we train hard, but there's something about sweating it out with people who've got your back. Some of our members have become legit friends outside the gym. That's the vibe we want.

Progress Over Perfection

Nobody shows up here already knowing everything. We meet you where you're at and build from there. Some days you'll crush it, other days you won't - that's life. We're focused on the long game.

How We Got Here

From a single room to Vancouver's go-to spot for functional training.

2018

Humble Beginnings

Started with 800 square feet, some barbells, and way too much optimism. Had maybe 15 members who believed in what we were building. Most people thought we were nuts for focusing on functional training when everyone else was going boutique.

2019

Combat Program Launch

Added our combat sports program after members kept asking about it. Brought in a couple of pro fighters to help coach. Within three months, we had a waitlist. Turns out people actually wanted to train like athletes, not just look like them.

2021

Major Expansion

Took over the space next door and tripled our size. Added a proper mat area, more equipment, and finally got that cold plunge I'd been wanting forever. Hit 250 members and had to actually hire staff - couldn't do everything myself anymore.

2023

Championship Year

Three of our athletes won regional championships in their respective sports. That was wild. Also launched our nutrition program because we realized people were training hard but eating like garbage. Can't out-train a bad diet, unfortunately.

2025

Where We Are Now

Over 500 members strong and still growing. We've kept that same no-BS approach from day one. Just added evening group classes for people who can't make it during the day. Looking at maybe opening a second location, but we'll see. Don't wanna lose what makes this place special.

Krython Bastion Today

Meet The Team

The people who make this place run. We've all got different backgrounds, but we're all about getting you stronger.

Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Been coaching for 8 years, worked with everyone from complete beginners to pro hockey players. Big fan of Olympic lifting and making people realize they're way stronger than they think.

Certifications:

  • CSCS Certified
  • Olympic Weightlifting Level 2
  • Precision Nutrition Coach
  • Functional Movement Screen
Javier Rodriguez
Javier Rodriguez

Combat Sports Coach

Former pro MMA fighter with 18-4 record. Now I'd rather teach than get punched in the face. Specializing in striking, grappling, and making sure you don't gas out in the first round.

Certifications:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt
  • Muay Thai Level 3 Instructor
  • Boxing Coach Certification
  • Sports Performance Specialist
Kenji Yamamoto
Kenji Yamamoto

Performance & Mobility Coach

Worked with Canada's national track team for 5 years before joining us. If something hurts when it shouldn't, I'll probably figure out why. Really into mobility work and recovery protocols.

Certifications:

  • MS Exercise Physiology
  • NSCA Performance Coach
  • Certified Athletic Therapist
  • Mobility & Flexibility Specialist
Amanda Lee
Amanda Lee

Nutrition & Recovery Specialist

Registered dietitian who actually lifts, which helps when people ask if they really need that much protein. Spoiler: yeah, probably. Not big on fad diets, more about sustainable habits.

Certifications:

  • Registered Dietitian
  • Sports Nutrition Specialist
  • Precision Nutrition Level 2
  • Sleep Science Certification
Derek Thompson
Derek Thompson

Powerlifting & Strength Coach

Competed in powerlifting for 10 years before my knees told me to chill out. Now I help people get strong without wrecking themselves. Really into progressive overload and proper form - boring but it works.

Certifications:

  • NSCA-CPT
  • USA Powerlifting Level 2 Coach
  • Strongman Coach Certification
  • Biomechanics Specialist
Priya Sharma
Priya Sharma

Functional Training & Yoga Coach

Brings a different perspective to the team - used to be a dancer, then got into functional training. Teaches our mobility classes and helps people understand that flexibility is strength too.

Certifications:

  • RYT-500 Yoga Instructor
  • TRX Certified Trainer
  • Functional Movement Specialist
  • Corrective Exercise Specialist

Ready to Start Training?

Come check out the facility, meet the team, and see if we're a good fit. No pressure, no sales pitch - just an honest conversation about your goals.

Book a Visit