Tacoma, WA · Since 2010
Move Better.
Live Better.
Tacoma's premier strength & conditioning gym. Expert coaching, a dedicated Olympic weightlifting facility, and a community that shows up for you — at every age and skill level.
Who We Are
Fitness Designed to Improve Your Life
Armor Athletics is a strength & conditioning gym in Tacoma, WA, and the home of CrossFit South Tacoma. Every class is taught by credentialed, experienced coaches — four of whom hold the Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer certification — so you learn functional movement safely and at your own pace. Our programs include strength & conditioning, Olympic weightlifting, personal training, and nutrition coaching.
We welcome all ages and skill levels — from first responders and busy parents to retirees, teenagers, and competitive athletes. You don't have to be fit to start; every new member begins with a free intro and a personalized On-Ramp, then chooses the membership that fits their goals. Join us, and let us help you become the best version of yourself.
Learn More About Us
The Armor Difference
More Than a Workout
Move Better
We're dedicated to keeping you healthy, strong, and moving efficiently. We work around previous injuries and help prevent future ones.
Have Fun
We help you find your 'why.' You should have passion in everything you do — you'll wake up excited to move and look forward to training.
Celebrate Success
We're on this journey with you. We don't just guide you toward your goals — we celebrate every victory along the way.
What We Offer
Programs for Every Goal
Built for the Barbell
A Dedicated Olympic Weightlifting Facility
Armor houses one of the South Sound's few dedicated Olympic weightlifting spaces: six custom lifting platforms, Eleiko barbells, and competition plates, with coached weightlifting classes every weekday morning, midday, and evening. Our USAW-certified coaches take a methodical approach to the snatch and clean & jerk, so you build technique before you build load.
Our members range from first-time lifters learning with an empty bar to masters athletes training for local meets. Whatever your starting point, you'll get stronger, develop explosive power, and sharpen your technique in a fun, competitive environment.
Olympic WeightliftingOur Facility
Everything You Need
Our 6,000 square-foot facility houses everything you expect in a serious gym — plus a dedicated Olympic weightlifting area with custom platforms and Eleiko barbells. We're less than five minutes from I-5.
- 6,000 sq ft of training space
- 6 custom Olympic lifting platforms
- Eleiko barbells & competition plates
- Squat racks & pull-up rigs
- Assault bikes & rowers
- Dumbbells, kettlebells & wall balls
- Climbing ropes
- Less than 5 minutes from I-5
Your Team
A Team of Expert Coaches
Our coaches are dedicated to helping you safely and effectively reach your goals. Each has completed an extensive internship and coaching evaluation before leading classes — and four of our coaches hold the Adaptive & Inclusive Trainer certification, so every workout scales to every body.
Kathryn Taylor
Owner
Joe Stewart
Interim Head Coach
Jess Kimbal
General Manager
Molly Yoshikawa
Coach
Anthony Valenzuela
Coach
Taylor Dickey
Associate Coach
Joe Menz
Coach
Reviews From You
It's Like a Second Family
“I joined because of the level of professionalism and credentials of the owner and staff. I enjoy the level at which they explain the why & what for every movement. I've learned that at 47, I have the strength and vision to take on new challenges like Olympic weightlifting. Go check out other facilities, then come to Armor to see the difference.”
Bobbi I.“I really enjoy the camaraderie, friendly competition, and great support between members. It's like a second family. I've learned that I'm a lot stronger than I thought, and that it's possible to keep working out while rehabbing an injury with coaches who can help you heal and progress.”
Marc H.“I joined because I had such a great experience in On-Ramp and the gym had a great vibe. I feel great physically and have a positive experience every time I come to Armor. I've learned that everything is easier when I quit overthinking it.”
Stephanie G.“The camaraderie in the gym is great, and everyone supports each other. I found that I truly can continue to get better, stronger, and healthier. Don't wait or doubt yourself — you can do this, and we're all here to cheer you on.”
Jose M.“I joined because I felt welcome. The coaches were willing to tailor the workouts to get me up to speed. Every member feels at home, and there's a great sense of accomplishment every time you go. You will enjoy yourself!”
Angela J.“I joined to get back in good physical condition and prevent injury in the coming years. I enjoy the challenging nature of the workouts, as well as the friendships I've made. Armor helped me learn that I wasn't too far gone for a comeback.”
Patrick A.Good to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
New to strength training or just new to Armor? Here are the questions we hear most. Still curious? Reach out any time — we're happy to help.
Ask Us Anything- Do I need to be fit to start at Armor Athletics?
- Not at all. You don't have to be fit to start — you just have to be willing to learn at your own pace. Every new member begins with a personalized On-Ramp, a series of one-on-one classes that teach you how to safely perform the movements and ease you into the intensity of the workouts.
- What is the 'No Sweat' Free Intro?
- It's a free, no-obligation 15–20 minute consultation. We meet you in person, show you our facility, and discuss the best way to get you started based on your current fitness level and goals. You don't have to work out during this session.
- Where is Armor Athletics located?
- We're at 5206 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA 98409 — less than five minutes from I-5, making us convenient to JBLM, Lakewood, University Place, Gig Harbor, Puyallup, Steilacoom, and more.
- What programs do you offer?
- Strength & Conditioning (home of CrossFit South Tacoma), Olympic Weightlifting, Personal Training, and Nutrition Coaching.
- Do you offer discounts for military, police, or fire?
- Yes. We're proud to support those who serve: we offer a 15% discount on monthly memberships for active duty military, veterans, police, and fire personnel. Ask us during your free intro and we'll apply it to your plan.
- Can I drop in if I'm visiting from out of town?
- Absolutely — we love welcoming new people. If you have CrossFit experience you're welcome to join any of our classes. Just reach out to schedule your drop-in.
Get Started
Schedule Your Free 'No Sweat' Intro
We'd love to meet you in person, show you our facility, and discuss the best way to get you started based on your goals. It takes 15–20 minutes — and you don't even have to work out.