If you’re a horror lover who’s ever felt out of place in the fitness world, Death Comes Lifting might just be the gym you’ve been waiting for. Created by Zak, this punk-rock, horror-inspired fitness haven offers horror fans, metalheads, and self-proclaimed misfits a place to build strength while staying true to their love for all things creepy. With a mission to transform fitness into something accessible for everyone, it has become a one-of-a-kind community dedicated to embracing both physical and mental wellness.
How Death Comes Lifting Began: A Vision Born from Horror Conventions
Zak’s journey to creating Death Comes Lifting didn’t start in a typical fitness setting—it began at horror conventions. Originally, it was a clothing brand Zak could share with fans at conventions, but his passion for fitness sparked a bigger vision: a place where horror fans could focus on their health and strength without sacrificing their identity.
“At horror conventions, I saw so many people like me who didn’t fit into traditional gyms,” Zak explains. “I wanted to give horror fans a place where they could feel comfortable, work on their health, and find a community. That’s what Death Comes Lifting is all about.”
Building the ‘Lifting Dead Army’: A Community that Supports Each Other
It is much more than a gym; it’s a community that Zak calls the ‘Lifting Dead Army.’ His gym is a judgment-free zone where horror fans of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels can come together to lift weights, build endurance, and improve their mental wellness. It’s about showing that fitness is for everyone, no matter their background or interests.
Zak shares stories of clients who’ve found transformation beyond just the physical. From overcoming insecurities to finding a support system, the Lifting Dead Army has become a true family. “The best part is seeing the impact on people’s lives,” Zak shares. “Knowing that members feel more confident, healthier, and part of a community is what matters most to me.”
Why Death Comes Lifting Sees Horror and Fitness as the Perfect Match
At first glance, horror culture and fitness might seem like an unusual combination, but Zak believes the connection is deeper than it appears. Horror fans are often drawn to the genre for its therapeutic qualities—it’s a safe space to explore fears, confront trauma, and process emotions. Similarly, fitness allows people to channel energy, build resilience, and foster both mental and physical wellness.
“Both horror and fitness are about facing your fears,” Zak says. “At Death Comes Lifting, we challenge ourselves physically, but we’re also building mental strength and resilience. Horror helps us process emotions, while fitness gives us tools to be our best selves.”
Going Virtual: How Death Comes Lifting Became a Worldwide Community
During the pandemic, Zak faced the challenge of keeping Death Comes Lifting going without a physical space. But rather than halting his mission, he took Death Comes Lifting virtual, launching a platform on Patreon where members could access workout classes, yoga sessions, and mental wellness content—all with a horror twist. This virtual space has allowed Death Comes Lifting to connect with horror fans around the world who are looking to prioritize their health.
Through the virtual platform, Zak offers an inclusive experience with content ranging from yoga to strength training, so that horror fans everywhere can take part in Death Comes Lifting.
Embracing Wellness Without Compromising Identity
Zak’s mission with Death Comes Lifting is to challenge stereotypes about what it means to be “fit” and to redefine health for those who may have felt marginalized or overlooked. He wants horror fans to know that taking care of yourself doesn’t mean sacrificing your identity.
“You don’t have to give up your horror love to be healthy,” Zak says. “In fact, embracing what you love can be a source of strength.”
Every aspect of Death Comes Lifting is a tribute to horror—from the dark-themed workout gear to the horror movie posters on the walls. Zak encourages members to use fitness as a tool for resilience, empowerment, and mental wellness, all while staying connected to their passion for horror.
From Trauma to Triumph: Death Comes Lifting and the Power of Community
For Zak and the Lifting Dead Army, Death Comes Lifting is about more than just fitness. It’s about community, self-care, and overcoming obstacles. Zak speaks openly about his struggles with self-acceptance and how horror provided a sense of relief during tough times. Through Death Comes Lifting, he hopes to offer that same sense of support for others, helping members turn their love for horror into a tool for self-care.
For anyone who has felt like an outsider, Zak’s message through Death Comes Lifting is simple: “You’re not alone. Horror is a family, fitness is for everyone, and here at Death Comes Lifting, we’re all in this together.”
How to Get Involved with Death Comes Lifting
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gym-goer, Death Comes Lifting offers options for everyone. For those who can make it to the physical gym in Pittsburgh, Death Comes Lifting provides a unique space that feels like a horror convention come to life. For those further away, the Lifting Dead Army is open to all through Zak’s virtual Patreon platform, which offers workout classes, live streams, and a supportive community.
Join the Lifting Dead Army and Discover Your Strength
If you’ve been looking for a place to belong while improving your health, Death Comes Lifting welcomes you to join the ranks of the Lifting Dead Army and find your strength. Horror and wellness go hand-in-hand at Death Comes Lifting, where you can be both strong and unapologetically yourself.
