Forge Your Warrior Spirit Through Ancient Training Methods
We're not your typical gym with rows of treadmills and mirrored walls. Here at the Citadel, you'll train like warriors did centuries ago - building real strength, real power, and a mindset that doesn't quit.
Forget those boring cardio machines. We use actual medieval combat techniques mixed with modern functional training. You'll swing real weapons (safely, of course) and build strength that actually matters.
Our coaches aren't just certified trainers - they're experienced in historical combat arts and know how to push you past what you thought possible. We've all been where you are.
Members drop pounds, gain muscle, and walk out feeling like they could take on anything. It's not just about looking good - it's about becoming someone who doesn't back down.
                Look, when I first got into this medieval combat stuff years ago, people thought I was nuts. But there's something primal about swinging a sword, blocking with a shield, moving your body the way warriors have for thousands of years.
We've built something special here in Vancouver. Yeah, it's unconventional - you won't find us doing boring bicep curls or endless crunches. Our training programs blend historical European martial arts with CrossFit-style conditioning and good old-fashioned hard work.
The thing is, when you're learning to properly handle a longsword or battle-axe, you're engaging muscles you didn't even know existed. Your core gets absolutely torched. Your grip strength goes through the roof. And mentally? You're learning discipline, focus, and how to stay calm under pressure.
Learn Our Story
                        This is where it all starts. Learn proper technique with longswords, axes, shields, and polearms. It's challenging, it's fun, and yeah, you'll be sore the next day.
                        Kettlebells, sandbags, battle ropes, and bodyweight movements. We build strength that translates to real life, not just flexing in the mirror.
                        Forget jogging on a treadmill watching TV. Our cardio sessions simulate actual combat scenarios - high intensity intervals that'll have your heart pounding.
                        Our signature group class. It's brutal, it's empowering, and you'll be surrounded by others pushing just as hard. The camaraderie here is unmatched.
                        Long-form conditioning sessions that build mental toughness as much as physical stamina. Knights trained for hours in armor - we honor that legacy.
                        You can't out-train a bad diet. We'll help you fuel your body properly without all the nonsense fad diets. Real food, real results.
Honestly, we get all types. Some folks have martial arts backgrounds, others have never thrown a punch in their life. We've got office workers who need an outlet, parents looking to reconnect with their strength, and young people who want something different.
What they all have in common? They're tired of the same old gym routine. They want something that challenges them physically AND mentally. Something that feels meaningful.
Age doesn't matter here. Fitness level when you start doesn't matter. What matters is showing up, putting in the work, and not giving up when it gets tough - because it will get tough, and that's the point.
We scale everything to your level. First day might just be learning basic footwork and how to hold a training sword properly. Six months later, you're sparring in protective gear and moving like you've been doing this your whole life.
                "I've trained at a lot of gyms over the years. CrossFit boxes, MMA gyms, powerlifting clubs. Nothing compares to what we've got going on at Runeblade. It's not just a workout - it's therapy, it's community, it's purpose."
- Marcus T., Member since 2023
Give us a call or shoot us an email. We'll chat about what you're looking for and set up a time for you to come check out the Citadel.
Come try a beginner-friendly class on us. See if it clicks. Meet some of the crew. No pressure, no sales pitch.
If it feels right, we'll get you set up with a membership and work out a training plan that fits your goals and schedule.
Stop thinking about it. Stop waiting for the "perfect time." There's no such thing. The best time to start was yesterday. The second best time is right now.