How It All Started
Back in 2017, I was working a desk job that was slowly killing me. Felt weak, unmotivated, and honestly pretty lost. Started training at a local gym, got into boxing to blow off some steam, and everything changed.
Fast forward a couple years - I'd competed in some amateur MMA bouts, got my coaching certs, and realized there weren't many places in Vancouver that combined serious strength work with real combat training. Most gyms were either bodybuilding factories or pure martial arts dojos. Nothing that brought it all together.
So yeah, I maxed out my credit cards and opened Crimson Valor Haven in a slightly sketchy warehouse space on Robson. The name? Crimson's for the blood, sweat, and grit - the stuff you can't fake. Valor's about showing up even when you don't wanna. And Haven? 'Cause this place became my sanctuary, and I wanted it to be that for others too.
We've grown a ton since those early days. Got better equipment, expanded our coaching team, added youth programs 'cause kids need this stuff early. But the core mission hasn't changed - we're here to help regular people become stronger versions of themselves.
It's not about Instagram physiques or trying to become the next UFC champ (though if that's your goal, we'll help). It's about building real strength - the kind that carries over into your actual life. Whether you're a parent who wants to keep up with your kids, someone dealing with stress, or just tired of feeling soft - we've got you.
What We're About:
- No judgement, just hard work
- Real coaching from people who've been in the trenches
- Community that actually gives a damn
- Training that works in real life
- Marcus Chen, Founder & Head Coach
