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Forge Fitness OC Rancho Santa Margarita Gym Q&A

360 Training Program
Strength
Performance
Nutrition
Body Recomposition
Frequently asked questions
General
Setting up FAQs
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We offer 14 days for $14 so you can experience the Forge Fitness program, our trainers, facilities, and community to see if it’s the right fit for you. To get started, we invite you to book an appointment to come in, talk with us about what you’re looking for, and see if Forge is the right fit for you.
Once you take part in the trial, we do not have access to your card details. These are not stored in our system — they are securely processed and stored by Stripe, one of the largest and most trusted payment gateway providers in the USA. This means your details are highly secure and out of harms way. There are no additional charges beyond the $14 trial fee, and there is absolutely no obligation to join afterward.
It is completely up to you whether you would like to become part of Forge Fitness, if you would like to you can purchase your plan/program on the Forge app. We will not chase, pressure, text, or message at all. We firmly believe that an exceptional product and environment speak for themselves.
Acceptance into our community may depend on your movement ability, current or past injuries, your expectations, and your willingness to follow our structured guidelines. We are looking for individuals who want to be part of a team — people who respect one another, look out for each other, and are committed to working hard. Our environment is built on accountability, professionalism, and mutual respect.
The 14-day trial is strictly for individuals who are genuinely interested in exploring Forge Fitness with the intention of becoming a permanent member.
If we have any indication that this is not the case, we reserve the right to cancel the trial at any time.
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Unlimited Plan - Month-to-Month: can be canceled only requiring 5 days notice in writing. Once canceled, any remaining days on the plan can still be used until the end date of the billing period.
Offered for Free at this time - Men's Peak-Performance and Ladies Better Body both include unlimited plan - These programs are designed to support your nutrition and lifestyle, both inside and outside of Forge Fitness, to ensure you stay on track and continue progressing beyond your training sessions.
• No 30 or 60-day cancellation policy—Only 5 days' notice needed! Simply email us or send a message through the Forge app with the date you'd like this to take place.
• No contract on the standard unlimited plan — cancel anytime with just 5 days' notice.
• 12-week programs: If you would like to cancel, just let us know at least 5 days before your 12 weeks ends. Simply email us or send a message through the Forge app with the date you'd like this to take place.
• No hidden fees.
• No cancellation fee.
• No joining fee.
The Perfect Fusion of Progressive Strength Training our main focus, Mobility, Agility, Endurance, Balance, and Cardiovascular Fitness
Split training divides workouts into specific muscle groups and movement patterns, preventing overtraining and allowing adequate recovery for each group. This approach minimizes overall fatigue by giving muscles the time they need to repair and grow while you focus on other areas, aiding in the development of a better physique and significantly reducing the risk of injury.
Hours of Operation
Monday - Saturday
Sessions are 50 minutes:
• 5:00 AM
• 6:00 AM
• 7:00 AM
• 8:30 AM
• Midday
• 4:30 PM
• 5:30 PM
Friday
Same as above, but the last session starts at 4:30 PM (no 5:30 PM session).
Saturday
Open Gym: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Why No Sessions In The Weekend? Rest + Recovery is just as important as work time.
We do not hold sessions over the weekend because rest and recovery are essential for a healthy body and effective training. Proper recovery helps prevent fatigue, supports muscle repair, growth and maximizes performance. Even if you decide to use the open gym on Saturday, we recommend avoiding excessive lower-body work. Monday is our designated lower-body training day, and overloading with too much volume beforehand can impact your results and recovery.
This is a very well balanced training program with built-in rest and recovery to ensure sustainable progress. It’s not a WOD or random workout approach—this is intentional, science-backed training designed to build strength, resilience, and long-term success and safety.
Weekly Program Breakdown
Hypertrophy – 360 Science-Based Strength and Movement Training
Our hypertrophy training is built on proven strength principles — progressive overload, structured programming, and measurable progression.
These sessions focus on:
• Increasing lean muscle mass
• Improving structural strength
• Enhancing joint stability
• Building long-term resilience
Alongside your primary compound lifts, we include carefully selected accessory movements that align directly with your overall training program.
These movements are designed to:
• Improve your ability to move efficiently in all planes of motion
• Increase range of motion
• Strengthen connective tissue
• Improve muscular balance
• Help resist injury
• Build overall performance capacity
This is not random volume. Every movement has a purpose. Every phase builds on the last.
Monday
Purpose: Focus on all lower body muscles
Lower Body Strength - Legs, Glutes, Back, Hamstrings, Quads, Abs + Conditioning
Tuesday
Purpose: Work muscles groups used for pulling
Upper Pull Day Strength - Back, Biceps, Abs, Core + Conditioning (muscles worked used for pulling)
Wednesday
Purpose: Work muscles groups used for pushing
Upper Push Day Strength - Chest, Triceps, Shoulders, Abs + Core + Conditioning (muscles worked used for pushing)
Thursday – Power Development
Power Development focuses on training your Type II muscle fibers — the fast-twitch fibers responsible for explosive strength, speed, and rapid force production. Sessions emphasize fast, controlled movements performed under strict supervision and technical guidance. This is not random or reckless speed work. It is precise, coached, and intentional.
By improving reaction time, balance, joint control, and tendon strength, we help reduce injury risk and improve overall movement quality — both inside and outside the gym.
This style of training enhances:
Training these Type II muscles greatly can helps prevent falls, simple things like getting up off the ground as we age.
Quick reaction ability
• Athletic movement quality
• Tendon and ligament resilience
• Balance and stability
• Coordination and movement efficiency
• Injury reduction through better neuromuscular control
Friday Full-Body Strength – Controlled Intensity
Our Full-Body Strength day targets all major muscle groups to build balanced strength and overall fitness. This session is intentionally paced than the earlier strength days in the week. However, it avoids heavy compound lifts.
Why?
Because as we move toward the weekend, recovery becomes the priority.
Instead of maximal compound loading, this day focuses on building in less overload :
This approach allows you to train the entire body while reducing nervous system fatigue from heavy compound work earlier in the week.
Saturday – Open Gym 8:30-10:30 AM
You may want to focus on a specific part of your body, need help mastering a movement, or seek technical advice. Perhaps you're looking for a personalized workout plan tailored to you. If you missed a day during the week, don't worry—we have all the daily formats available, which can be displayed on the big screen with every weight, rep, and set included. Our trainers are always here to assist and support you.
Sunday Full Day Rest & Recovery (very important)
Recovery is not optional — it is part of professional strength training.
When volume and overload accumulate through the week, the nervous system experiences fatigue. If this fatigue is not managed properly, it increases the risk of injury, reduces performance output, and limits progress.
True strength development requires recovery time.
We recommend at least two days per week where the body can fully recuperate — allowing:
• Nervous system restoration
• Muscle repair and adaptation
• Tendon and ligament recovery
• Hormonal balance
• Reduced injury risk
This structured recovery prepares you to enter the next training week fresh, strong, and ready to progress. We strongly do not recommend heavy lifting over the weekend. Adding additional overload during this recovery window can delay nervous system restoration and interfere with adaptation.
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Professional strength training is not about doing more.
It is about doing what is required — and allowing the body to adapt.
Recover well.
We Only Do What Works—Backed by Science.
No fluff. No hype. No egos.
No gimmicks. No trendy nonsense.
No flashy moves just to look cool.
Just real training that delivers real results.
At Forge Fitness OC, RSM, it’s all about building you up—not breaking you down. We firmly believe anyone can make you hot and sweaty, but very few can build you the right way.
Our training is built to strengthen your body and health for the long run—supporting both performance and longevity. Everything we do is based on science to deliver real, measurable results.
Our 360° program focuses on progressive strength training, targeted nutrition, and body recomposition—using structured training to build lean muscle and strategic nutrition to reduce unwanted body fat, all with the goal of creating a defined, athletic-looking physique.
We also focus on increasing your workload capacity and improving cardiovascular function, helping you perform better and last longer.
You’ll train to move like an athlete by improving range of motion (ROM) and enhancing mobility in every plane. This not only builds an injury-resilient body, but also supports a higher quality of life.
Whether your goal is performance, health, or long-term transformation, Forge Fitness provides the tools, coaching, and structure to get you there—safely and sustainably.
We’re proud to offer a professional structured training program—not like most just random workouts with no clear direction or long-term goal—those only lead to plateauing. Our approach is rooted in science designed with your safety first, made to build your body up not break it down. We focus only on what works, with a progression program that delivers trackable and measurable results—giving you clear hard data milestones to work to, guiding you to become better each time you train.
We welcome most fitness levels —whether you're you are getting back into it or a dedicated fitness enthusiast. One of our greatest strengths is our ability to tailor every workout to meet even if are a getting back into your fitness.
Is the training scary, intimidating, or abusive?
In short, no. Forge is a supportive place filled with a community of members and coaches whose goal it is to make meaningful training available to everyone. We do take the training seriously we are committed to starting every client at an appropriate level and make them feel welcome in the process. You will not find a nicer group of people.
This is why we offer $14 for 14 days, for you to see if Forge is right for you, and for us to see if Forge is the right fit for you.
Best to claim your 14 days trial and try us!
Why Use the VO2 Master for VO2 Max Testing?
The VO2 Master is a portable, wireless metabolic analyzer that simplifies VO2 max testing and provides accuracy similar to traditional lab carts.
Unlike traditional laboratory equipment, the VO2 Master eliminates the need for tubes or backpacks, and allows users to conduct tests in real-world conditions like a bike or track as well as the common treadmill and ergometer set ups.
Is Forge Fitness CrossFit or Boot Camp?
A definitive answer: NO. Not one bit!
Forge Fitness is a 360° training program deeply rooted in science and focused on hypertrophy and strength training to reshape the body—paired with a strong emphasis on proper nutrition for true body recomposition.
Forge Fitness is a professional training facility offering a long-term, personalized program designed to build you better—not break you.
Our training is structured and intentional, with a focus on precise movement quality—just like how professional trainers and top athletes train. We slow movements down and execute them with control, because that’s what builds your body the right way and keeps you safe.
We don’t do random workouts, fast-paced circuits, or flashy tends like thrusting weights at high speed—those approaches can be hard on the body and lead to a high risk of injury and joint injuries that show later in life
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At Forge, every exercise is based on how professionals truly train. We slow things down, focus on quality, and activate the right muscles while protecting the body. It’s about longevity, not burnout. Our goal is to build you better—safely.
Our program is structured in 6–12 week blocks, with a focus on progression through trackable reps, weights, and sets. Each phase includes individualized targets grounded in science, helping you avoid plateaus and achieve real, sustainable results. We provide real trackable and measured results.
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A crucial aspect often overlooked when joining a fitness facility is the trainer's credentials. It's important to remember that a trainer quite literally has your well-being in their hands. A highly reputable facility will ensure its trainers are highly skilled and certified, as poor training often leads to injuries and poor progess.
At Forge Fitness, we’ve found that the best trainers are highly skilled, professional personal trainers with a deep understanding of body mechanics and movement quality, backed by years of hands-on experience. Their expertise far surpasses that of individuals who have only led group fitness classes. From the large number of trainers we interview and test, we are fortunate if even one meets our standards—and to date, no trainer with experience solely in leading group classes has ever passed our test.
Trainers are certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), recognized as the gold standard in the industry. Collectively, our team boasts over 60 years of combined experience, making them highly skilled and dedicated to helping you achieve your fitness goals.
Typically, less experienced person leading a class might shout phrases like, "Go harder, do more!" or "You can lift more!" While these statements might sound motivating, they often result in burnout or injury. True training requires working closely with each individual, teaching proper movement, understanding their capabilities, and knowing when to push them forward—and when to hold them back.
50-Minute Session Starts
Warm-Up
Every session starts with a good warm-up on a low-impact machine, such as the Concept2 Rower, Skierg, BikeErg, or Rogue Air Bike. This helps get the body up to working temperature. We will show you how to use each piece of equipment, so do not be concerned if you're unfamiliar with it - we got you.
Activation
Get The Body Primed And Ready
A proper movement activation helps to avoid injuries and promotes the flow of fluid around joints, enhancing lubrication and freedom of movement. It further improves the elasticity of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, aiding in a improvement of overall range of motion.
Trainer Orientation
Every session your trainer will always provide a detailed orientation. Every piece of equipment will be explained, demonstrating how to use it, and every movement will be shown and explained in detail - what muscles group a movement targets.
Work Time Begins
The Forge format are thoughtfully designed, making everything clear and easy to follow. You won’t get lost in the crowd because our classes are intentionally kept smaller. We don’t run around chaotically, dropping weights or performing bizarre movements. Instead, we focus on structured, effective, and safe training with movements that are trackable for progression based programs. Our trainers specialize in teaching proper technique and form first and foremost.
Finish
You can cool down and roll out if you feel like it—we’ll have a chat with you afterward to ensure everything went well.
At Forge Fitness, we leverage the latest technology to elevate your training experience. From heart rate monitoring to advanced body scans that measure body fat, muscle mass, and muscle balance. To the best equipment, we provide the tools you need to track your progress with precision.
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Forge Fitness Rancho Santa Margarita is the #1 HYROX training facility.
Why? Because you’ll be coached by trainers who have competed on the world stage, with some earning #1 rankings in the USA and globally! At Forge Fitness, you’re not just trained by anyone—you’re trained by the very best.
Forge Fitness is proud to have trainers with these incredible achievements:
• Spartan AG National Champion
• Overall Winner of the HYROX Anaheim Open (2023 & 2024)
• #2 Age Group Winner in the World for Three Consecutive Years
• Three-time Winner of Mt. Baldy
• Boston Marathon Finisher
• DEKAFit Elite Competitor
• USA Triathlon & Duathlon All-American Honors
• Former USA Triathlon Off-Road/MTB National Champion
• XTERRA Triathlon National Champion
• 10-time Winner of the Camp Pendleton Mud Run
Forge Fitness OC RSM - Is A World Class Training Facility
Impeccable Cleanliness:
Forge Fitness takes pride in maintaining an immaculate environment. We believe a tidy space reflects our commitment to excellence. Forge would be one of the cleanest group facilities in California.
Spacious and Well-Equipped Bathrooms:
Our facilities are designed with your comfort in mind. The women's area features two spacious toilets and showers, equipped with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. The men's amenities include two toilets and a roomy shower, offering the same thoughtful amenities.
Comfortable Climate:
We keep the gym fully air-conditioned when necessary, ensuring a refreshing and pleasant environment, even during the hottest summer days.
Stay Hydrated:
Quench your thirst at our free filtered water station. Staying hydrated is essential, and we make it convenient for you.
Top-Notch Equipment:
Expect nothing less than the best. Our equipment is meticulously maintained and up-to-date, providing everything you need for an effective and enjoyable workout.
Secure Lockers:
Store your belongings worry-free. Our lockers are spacious and lockable, ensuring a secure spot for your items while you focus on your fitness journey.
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We take this very seriously. If you choose to take the 14-day trial, you will receive an intake/waiver form via email. This form includes a section for injuries. Please provide detailed and specific information about any past or present injuries. For example, if you have a back injury, specify the exact area (e.g., C1, C2) and explain what aggravates the injury.
Our expert certified trainers work closely with individuals, carefully tailoring movements and exercises to suit their abilities. However, based on our experience, some individuals with certain injuries may be better suited for rehabilitation rather than weight training, especially if those injuries impair movement.
If someone's injury, movement issues, or state of health are not suited for Forge, we are fully transparent about it. During the 14-day trial, our trainers and head movement expert will assess your situation to determine if Forge is the right fit for you. We will also request that you inform us immediately if you experience any issues during your trial.
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If you have any concerns or questions, you can message us through our website or schedule an appointment for a chat and a tour of the gym. Craig, the owner, will personally meet with you, show you around, listen to your concerns, and do his best to answer your questions.
At Forge Fitness, our group training classes stand out with the widest variety of high-quality, specialized equipment, setting us apart from any other group fitness facility. We provide an extensive range of equipment designed to target all muscle groups effectively, incorporating both compound and isolation exercises.
Many of our machines are purpose-built for isolation exercises, which are rarely available in typical group fitness settings. These exercises are essential for building a balanced, resilient, and injury-resistant body. We also recognize that everyone’s needs are unique, and certain movements may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with injuries.
For instance, if a barbell back squat isn’t ideal for you, we offer belt squats that remove strain from the back while effectively targeting the same muscle groups. Our specialized equipment, including leg curl machines, leg extensions, and pull-up machine, ensures you can build your body safely and effectively while minimizing injury risk.
We offer only the best: a fleet of Concept2 Rowers, SkiErgs, BikeErgs, Rogue Echo Bikes, Jammer Arms, belt squats, cable machines, power racks, and much more. At Forge Fitness, our equipment and expertise ensure you train at your best and stay on the path to your fitness goals.
The Forge Fitness app is your ultimate fitness toolkit, it's not one of those boring generic branded booking apps, that really does nothing for you. Custom built for you and customizable to your needs. Designed with industry-leading expertise and hundreds of hours of development, this app is more than just a tool—it’s your partner in achieving real results.
We created the Forge app to ensure you see and celebrate your individual progress. After all, why do you work out if not to see results? We’re here to help you achieve them.
The app tracks everything: your reps, weights, sets, and metrics on machines, ensuring you’re always moving forward and improving. It’s your progress tracker, every step of the way.
Connect with the community by sharing photos, starting your own forums, or chatting directly with gym friends—all within the Forge app.
Detailed movement videos are available to help you perfect your form, and classes are supported with step-by-step instructional content to elevate your skills. You can even review videos of your own workouts—be the star of your fitness journey!
Track your progress in nutrition and training courses, measure your stats, and manage it all in one place with the Forge app. It’s fitness, made smarter.
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Absolutely not! That’s one of the biggest myths in the fitness industry. (Do some research!)
Our strength training and nutrition recomposition program is engineered to build lean muscle, boost bone density, and reshape your body for lasting, visible results. This science-backed, results-driven 360° approach fuses precision hypertrophy strength training with strategic nutrition programming, combined with a measured amount of cardiovascular work for optimal internal health.
Our 360° training program is designed to help create injury-resistant, strong, healthy, and balanced athletic physiques that move well, giving that toned and defined desirable look.
No We Are Not!
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