How We Got Started
Look, I'm gonna be real with you. Back in 2017, I was running a corporate 9-to-5 and watching people around me struggle with the same thing - they'd join a gym, work out for a few weeks, then just... disappear. The motivation fizzled out because nobody showed them how to make it stick.
I'd been coaching athletes on the side for years, working with everyone from weekend warriors to semi-pro hockey players. What I noticed was that the folks who actually stuck with it weren't just following programs - they were part of something bigger. They had a system that worked WITH their life, not against it.
So I took the leap. Quit the desk job, cashed in my savings, and opened Embercrest Continuum right here in North Van. The name? "Embercrest" 'cause I wanted to ignite that fire in people, and "Continuum" because fitness isn't a destination - it's an ongoing journey.
What We Actually Believe In
Here's the deal - we're not about quick fixes or 30-day transformations. That stuff doesn't last and you know it. We're about building something that actually fits into your real life.
Every person who walks through our doors gets treated like an individual, not just another membership number. Your body's different, your goals are different, and yeah, your schedule's probably a mess too. We get it.
We blend high-performance training techniques with practical wellness strategies. You want to lift heavy? Cool. Need to work on mobility 'cause your back's been killing you? We've got you. Training for a specific sport? That's literally what we do best.
And honestly? The best part of this whole thing has been watching people surprise themselves. That moment when someone hits a PR they didn't think was possible, or when they tell me they've got more energy for their kids - that's why I do this.
Credentials & Certifications
- ✓ NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- ✓ Precision Nutrition Level 2 Certified
- ✓ FMS (Functional Movement Systems) Certified
- ✓ USA Hockey Performance Training Specialist
- ✓ Certified Athletic Therapist (CAT)
- ✓ 12+ Years Coaching Experience
- ✓ Former Provincial Level Track & Field Athlete
Our Journey So Far
November 2017
The Beginning
Opened our doors with a 2,500 sq ft facility and just 12 founding members. Started with the basics - barbells, dumbbells, and a whole lot of hustle.
March 2018
First Major Win
One of our athletes qualified for the BC Winter Games. That validation that our methods actually worked hit different, not gonna lie.
September 2019
Expansion Time
Doubled our space to 5,000 sq ft. Added dedicated recovery area with massage therapy and mobility equipment. Our member count hit 150.
April 2020
Adapting & Evolving
Yeah, that year. Pivoted to virtual training faster than I thought possible. Kept the community tight through online sessions and outdoor training pods.
January 2022
Building The Team
Brought on three more certified coaches and a registered dietitian. Started offering comprehensive nutrition planning as part of our programs.
July 2023
Recognition & Awards
Named "Best Specialty Fitness Studio" by North Shore Outlook readers. Our sports-specific training programs caught attention from local hockey and soccer clubs.
March 2024
Community Partnerships
Partnered with three local high schools for their athlete development programs. Started scholarship program for youth athletes from underserved communities.
November 2025
Today & Beyond
Over 300 active members, 6-person coaching team, and we're still growing. Working on launching our online programming platform for remote athletes. The journey continues.