On Borough Road since 2019
No mirrors.
No egos.
An independent gym in Darlington. Classes included in membership.
- BOROUGH RD IND. EST · DARLINGTON · DL1 1TG
- 4.9 ★ GOOGLE (127)
- NORTHERN ECHO BEST GYM 2026 FINALIST
Forge Fitness
- No mirrors on the gym floor.
- Classes included in membership.
- Free parking.
- Classes adjusted to every level.
“We are a gym for everybody – Average Joes who don't want to show off or be bothered about wearing the latest gear.”
David Thwaites, Forge Fitness, speaking to The Northern Echo
The Floor
So many machines.
— a member, on Google
A 10,000 sq ft independent gym with kit from Hammer Strength, Cybex, Atlantis and Life Fitness. Over 45 resistance machines, competition kettlebells, and two open-plan areas for classes and functional training.
- Resistance machines
- 45+
- Open-plan areas
- 2
10,000
Sq ft of floor.
Classes
Weekly classes.
HYROX
Monday & Thursday
18:00
Early class
Most weekdays
06:15
Sunday Strength
Coached · max 4 · £10pp · members and non-members
Sunday
09:15
Junior ROX
Ages 11–16 · 45 min
Ask the gym for times
—
Also on the programme: Bootcamp, Strongman circuits and Sweat. Classes are included in membership.
Book Sunday Strength by DMMembership
Memberships from £29.99.
Classes included.
Monthly for flexibility, or annual for the best value. Day passes are available. Message us.
Coaching
Personal training and more.
- Personal training
- Group PT
- On-site sports massage therapist
Our coaches run HYROX open days and the Sunday Strength sessions.
The story
Since 2019.
Forge has been running on Borough Road since 2019, when David Thwaites and Emma Bamlet took over the gym and rebranded it as Forge Fitness. David was a kitchen fitter before he became a personal trainer. In 2026, Forge was shortlisted in the top ten for The Northern Echo's Best Gym.
Reviews
4.9 ★ on Google,
127 reviews
★★★★★ 30 Aug 2025 · Google review
“This gym is perfect for me. They put on loads of group classes during the week. I prefer to go on weekdays before work, and they have a 6.15am class almost every day. They have all the expected equipment, but also have a lot of equipment I've never seen before. The trainers are friendly and approachable and can show you how to use everything. The value for money is crazy as well. I pay monthly because I like flexibility, but it's better value if you sign up for a year. I go about 3 times per week. I worked it out, it's costing me £2.69 per visit and that includes the group classes.”
★★★★★ 25 Feb 2026 · Google review
“Great kit and awesome facility with plenty of space. Staff are welcoming too. There are so many machines!”
★★★★★ 12 Feb 2026 · Google review
“Lovely local gym...clean and new equipment. The trainers are amazing...I have been attending the team classes circuit/ hyrox and they are very good and safe ,easily adjusted to every level...Matt is an amazing coach ,very kind and very supportive...nothing to envy comparing to the big corporate chains”
★★★★★ 31 Oct 2025 · Google review
“I initially messaged the instagram and received an instant response. Me and my partner were visiting the area and needed a day pass. A very very well equipped gym. I was struggling with a new exercise and a team member set me up correctly and explained correct form. Would definitely recommend!”
★★★★★ 23 Aug 2025 · Google review
“This is hands down the best gyms around! The staff are super friendly and always happy to help, which makes training here such a positive experience. I really like the two open-plan areas they have for classes like hyrox or bootcamp or individual training so It gives loads of space to train without feeling cramped. Easy to park and plenty of gym equipment. Great vibe, great people, and excellent facilities!”
Find us
Borough Road.
Borough Road Industrial Estate,Darlington DL1 1TG
Free parking
| Monday–Thursday | 6am–9pm |
|---|---|
| Friday | 6am–8pm |
| Saturday | 8am–2pm |
| Sunday | 9am–2pm |
FAQ
Questions.
Are classes included?
Yes, classes are included in membership.
How much is membership?
Memberships start from £29.99. Join online or message us for the options.
Can I get a day pass?
Yes. Message us on Instagram or call 01325 463499.
Is there parking?
Yes, free parking.
Are there really no mirrors?
Not on the gym floor. The only mirrors are in the changing rooms.
Do you have classes for teenagers?
Yes, Junior ROX for 11–16 year olds. Message us for times.
What are the opening hours?
Monday to Thursday 6am to 9pm, Friday 6am to 8pm, Saturday 8am to 2pm and Sunday 9am to 2pm.