Our Story

We didn’t start with a fancy facility.

We didn’t start with a big budget or shiny machines.

We started outside. On the grinder!

Grinder Gym was born on the concrete—running stairs, lunging across parking lots, and warming up with a mapped-out 1-mile run. We had three buckets of dumbbells and a few mats for those who didn’t bring their own.

It wasn’t about comfort.

It was about commitment.

As our crew grew, we pushed further—taking it to the rooftop of the gym that was hosting us. We resurfaced it ourselves, transforming that exposed space into a fully functional outdoor training ground. No mirrors. No air conditioning. Just the grind.

And while the beginnings were humble, we did more than make do.

Under the guidance of Dave DePew, thousands of bodies were transformed—physically and mentally. What started with a few determined individuals became a movement, one that would inspire the fitness industry to trend toward boot camps, outdoor workouts, and body transformation challenges.

Before we moved into our own space, we had grown to over 150 members, running eight classes a day—all before most gyms even knew what functional training meant.

That energy—that raw, relentless spirit—became our signature.

Today, Grinder Gym stands as a fully equipped strength training facility in San Diego and a global online community, but the heart hasn’t changed.

We still train like we’re on the concrete.

We still coach like every session counts.

We still believe that results are earned, not given.

Grinder Gym is more than a gym.

It’s a movement built on effort, integrity, and transformation.

We educate. We equip. We challenge.

We help you get stronger, faster, and better.

We don’t just build bodies.

We build belief.

And it all started outside—with a few dumbbells, the concrete, and a vision.

Ready to Start Your Transformation?

Join the movement. Train with purpose.

Whether you’re online, in San Diego, or stepping into your first competition—Grinder Gym is your home for real results.