About Forge Fitness Club

Marcus Stone spent eight years competing as an IFBB pro, traveling the country and training at some of the biggest gyms in the world. But everywhere he went, the pattern was the same -- intimidating atmospheres, overpriced memberships, and coaches who cared more about their own brand than their clients' progress. He knew there was a better way to build a gym.

San Diego was the obvious choice. The city's outdoor fitness culture, year-round perfect weather, and active military and veteran community meant people here already understood discipline and hard work -- they just needed a home base worthy of that dedication. In 2019 Marcus signed a lease on a raw warehouse space on Garnet Ave in Pacific Beach to prove it.

Marcus welded the first squat racks himself, painted the walls with friends, and opened the doors with three members and a simple promise: world-class coaching, serious equipment, and zero ego. Within six months, word of mouth filled the schedule. He brought on Anthony for boxing, Jessica for mobility, and Daniela for group programming. Each coach shares the same philosophy -- meet people where they are, push them further than they thought possible, and make the gym a place they actually look forward to walking into.

Five years later, Forge Fitness Club serves over 500 active members from every walk of life -- Navy SEALs and retirees, surfers and software engineers, competitive athletes and parents squeezing in a 6 AM session before school drop-off. The equipment is elite, the programming is evidence-based, and the culture is relentlessly supportive. Marcus still coaches the 5:30 AM class every Monday, and he still remembers every member's name and their numbers.