Our Story

Where grit meets purpose, and sweat builds something real.

Founder training

How It Started

Look, I'm not gonna feed you some polished corporate origin story. Back in 2018, I was working a soul-crushing desk job, training out of cramped commercial gyms that cared more about memberships than actual results.

I'd spent years in MMA and functional training, watching people get stuck in the same cookie-cutter programs that just... didn't work for real life. Y'know what I mean? Like, sure, you can bench press, but can you actually move your body when it counts?

So I took what little savings I had, found this rough-around-the-edges warehouse space on Powell Street, and said screw it. Ignis Flare Bastion was born from pure frustration and a belief that training should actually prepare you for something - whether that's a fight, a tough hike, or just keeping up with your kids.

- Marcus Chen, Founder

What We're Actually About

Real Functional Strength

We're not here to build show muscles. Every movement we teach has a purpose - whether it's throwing a punch, lifting something heavy, or getting yourself off the ground fast. Training that translates to actual life.

Mental Toughness

Your body quits way after your mind does. We push you past those mental barriers where growth actually happens. It's uncomfortable, yeah, but that's kinda the whole point. You'll surprise yourself.

Community Over Competition

Sure, we'll push you to compete with yourself, but this ain't some toxic bro culture. People here actually give a damn about each other's progress. We celebrate wins together and pick each other up when things get rough.

Our Journey

From a bare-bones warehouse to Vancouver's go-to spot for no-BS combat fitness

March 2018

The Beginning

Opened with just 300 square feet, some second-hand equipment, and 12 founding members who believed in the vision. We ran HIIT classes in the morning and boxing sessions at night. It was raw, loud, and exactly what Vancouver needed.

November 2019

First Expansion

Took over the adjacent unit and doubled our space. Added a proper boxing ring, Olympic lifting platforms, and brought on three more coaches. Started our functional strength program that's still one of our most popular offerings today.

2020-2021

The Pivot

Yeah, COVID hit us hard. But instead of closing up shop, we went online, launched outdoor bootcamps in local parks, and kept our community tight. When restrictions lifted, we came back stronger - members said they'd never been more committed to their training.

June 2022

Competition Team Launch

Started our competitive MMA and boxing team. Within six months, our fighters were placing in regional tournaments. Not everyone wants to compete, but having that high-level training energy in the gym? It lifts everyone's game.

January 2024

Nutrition Program Added

Brought on certified nutrition coaches because we kept seeing people train their asses off but not get results. Can't out-train a bad diet, right? Now we offer comprehensive coaching that actually addresses the whole picture.

November 2025

Today & Beyond

We've grown to over 400 members, 8 full-time coaches, and we're just getting started. Got plans for advanced athletic conditioning programs and maybe another location. But honestly? We're most proud that people still feel like they're part of something real when they walk through our doors.

Our Philosophy

Training isn't about perfection. It's about showing up when you don't feel like it. It's about pushing through that last round when your lungs are burning. It's about building something that lasts - not just muscles, but discipline, confidence, and a version of yourself that doesn't back down.

We're here to forge your fire and help you build your fortress. Not through fancy equipment or trendy programs, but through hard work, smart coaching, and a community that's got your back.

What Makes Us Different

  • Small class sizes - max 15 people
  • Every coach is an active competitor or former pro
  • Programs designed for real-world application
  • No mirrors - we focus on how you move, not how you look
  • Open gym policy for all members

By The Numbers

  • 450+ active members
  • 8 full-time certified coaches
  • 75+ classes per week
  • 3,500 sq ft training facility
  • 7 years of transforming lives

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Come check out the facility, meet the coaches, and see if we're the right fit for you. First class is on us.

Get Started Today