The Forge coaches
Our Story

ABOUT
THE FORGE

The Forge is a coached functional strength and conditioning gym in Clarence, NY. We exist to help normal people move better, get stronger, and participate fully in life, at any age.

Our Philosophy

WE BELIEVE
PEOPLE STICK
BECAUSE OF
COMMUNITY.

Most people don't fail at fitness because of a lack of information. They fail because they're training alone, without structure, and without anyone who cares if they show up.

The Forge was built to solve that problem. Every class is coached. Every athlete is known. Every workout is planned. And the community, the people who cheer for your PRs and show up alongside you, is the reason people stay for years.

Community
People who show up for each other
Structured
Programming planned weeks ahead
Accountable
Coaches who know your name
Scalable
For any age, any fitness level
The Forge community

IS THE FORGE A FIT FOR YOU?

The Forge IS a fit if you...

  • Want coaching, not just equipment
  • Value community and accountability
  • Want structured, planned programming
  • Are willing to be coached and corrected
  • Want to feel part of something real

The Forge might NOT be a fit if you...

  • Want to train alone without interacting
  • Are only looking for the cheapest equipment access
  • Don't want to be coached or corrected
  • Prefer a completely self-directed program

"If you want a go-it-alone gym where you never talk to anyone, The Forge probably isn't a fit. And that's okay."

Meet the Team

YOUR COACHES

Every Forge coach is certified, experienced, and genuinely invested in your progress. All coaches have 5+ years of coaching experience.

Coach Anne

Anne

Head Coach & Owner
NSCA-CPT, CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach, Black Belt (Shodan) in Isshin-Ryu

Anne bought the gym that preceded The Forge in 2025 after 8 years as an athlete. She's incredibly passionate about functional strength, nutrition, women's health, and making strength and conditioning accessible for everyone.

Coach Karrie

Karrie

Coach
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

Part-time instructor with 5 years of experience focusing on strength, movement, and building resilient athletes.

Coach Kara

Kara

Coach
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

With 6 years of CrossFit experience, I was introduced to the sport after my college athletic career and quickly fell in love with the challenge of pushing my limits. A competitive athlete who reached the 2024 CrossFit Open Quarterfinals, my favorite part of the sport is building mental toughness and helping athletes develop that resilience both inside and outside of the gym.

Coach Mike

Mike

Coach
CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

"The Mayor" around these parts, Mike has been coaching for 8+ years. He excels at connecting movements in the gym with daily life so that our athletes are at their best inside and outside the gym.

Coach Alex

Alex

Coach
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

Passionate about fitness and dedicated to helping others love the journey since 2020.

Coach Credentials

NSCA-CPTCFL1USA Weightlifting L1Black Belt (Shodan)5+ Years Experience

COME MEET
THE TEAM

The best way to understand what The Forge is about is to come in. Your first class is free, and a coach will be there to meet you.

TRY A FREE CLASS

Your first class is on us. Book a spot and a coach will be ready for you.