Forge Athletic

Forge Athletic isn't your typical gym. It's a place that promises to give you the best hour of your day, every day.

Located in the heart of West Melbourne, the Crossfit gym doesn’t just focus on lifting weights or hitting personal bests.

"We want to create more than just a gym; we want to create a community where everyone feels welcome. For our members this is like a second home," says Danny Delcano co-owner of Forge Athletic alongside Dave Capriotti.

Their journey to business partners started when Danny coached Dave at a local CrossFit gym. They became friends who shared a deep-rooted passion for fitness, community, and making a difference in people's lives. . They became friends who shared a deep-rooted passion for fitness, community, and making a difference in people's lives.

In 2019, Danny took an opportunity to open a new Crossfit gym in Moorabbin. He approached Dave, who has a background in graphic design and advertising, to help with the gym's branding.

Dave's creativity blended seamlessly with Danny's passion, and the idea of Forge Athletic began to take shape as he became drawn into Danny’s vision.

“Our skills and personalities just clicked. I saw a business opportunity but also a chance to be part of something meaningful,” Dave reflects.

“I saw how Danny took care of members and his dedication to helping them achieve their goals.”

Fast forward to 2022, and Forge Athletic took over an existing gym in West Melbourne. It’s a space that welcomes fitness enthusiasts of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities.

“There’s a perception that you have to be super fit to start CrossFit. That’s not the case! We have members who are eighteen, right up to their seventies.

“Fitness isn't one-size-fits-all. We're here to support everyone on their unique journey. Here, everyone's an athlete,” explains Danny.

What makes Forge Athletic truly unique is its commitment to its members. Danny and Dave are present at both locations regularly alongside an amazing team of coaches Helen, Christine, Nat, Jodi and Libby. They want every member to feel known and valued, just like family.

“We want to form genuine connections with our members. We know their stories and their lives outside of the gym. For some members, the hour they spend with us might be the only social interaction for that day.

“Sometimes I feel like the community we have is more important than what happens on the gym floor,” smiles Dave.

While Danny and Dave have a clear vision for the future, their priority remains the personal touch and deep connections they've cultivated within the Forge Athletic community.

So whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned Crossfit enthusiast, Forge Athletic invites everyone to become stronger, fitter, faster - and to be a part of a community that’s truly extraordinary.

Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna Encio