Tengoku Strength

Push past limits. Pursue higher purpose.

Kristofer DeCastro AAPT CPT PSL1

2x WRPF NY state record holder|BJJ Bluebelt

About Me

Who I am:

I’m Kristofer DeCastro — 2x WRPF NY state record-holding powerlifter, BJJ blue belt, and coach from Queens, NY.I wasn’t the athletic type growing up — in fact, I just didn’t like sports. I was into anime, video games, and got bullied for it.
Through the years, I dealt with heartbreak, depression, and setbacks that hit harder than any weight.In 2007, I started training in Mixed Martial Arts under John Danaher black belt Steven Williams (aka Steven Strangles People on YouTube).
By 2009, I was training at the world-famous Renzo Gracie Academy — known as the blue basement — under names like Daniel Gracie, Gregor Gracie, Igor Gracie, Neiman Gracie, and more.
In 2012, I moved to Renzo Gracie Brooklyn and trained under former UFC fighter Rafael “Sapo” Natal, earning my blue belt in 2016 under Matt Kaplan (Black belt under Renzo Gracie's 1st Japanese Black belt Daisuke Yamaji).I wasn’t always consistent, but it sparked something in me.In 2014, I got into unconventional fitness.
By 2015, I became a certified trainer through the American Academy of Personal Training.In 2018, I found powerlifting and began training at iconic gyms like Coliseum Gym (where Kevin Oak and Larry Wheels trained) and Mount Vernon Barbell, now home to athletes like Delaney Wallace and Sherine Marcelle.
Powerlifting became the anchor I didn’t know I needed.Tengoku Strength was built from those battles.
This isn’t just training — it’s transformation.If you’re rebuilding too, you’re in the right place.

Why train with me?

✅ Proven Performance: 2x NY state record holder in powerlifting | BJJ blue belt | Years of hands-on experience under the bar and on the mats winning multiple medals.

🧠 Real-World Mindset: I’ve trained through setbacks, burnouts, and comebacks — and I’ll show you how to do the same

📖 Purpose-Driven Coaching: This isn’t just physical. We build discipline, consistency, and intention — with a mindset rooted in something deeper

💪 No Fluff. Just Results: No gimmicks, no shortcuts — just structured, intentional training that works

Mission

Tengoku Strength exists to guide people toward more than just physical progress.
This is about training the body and building the mindset to endure, adapt, and grow.It’s not just what you lift — it’s how you show up.
With purpose. With grit. With discipline.Strength is more than muscle.
It’s who you become through the work.

Client highlights + testimonials

Powerlifting Athlete:
Blanca 75kg

RPS Insurrexion 9/23
Farmingdale, NY

Squat:132.5kg (NY Teen record)
Bench: 40kg
Deadlift: 147.5kg (NY Teen record)
Total: 320kg (NY Teen record)

1 on 1 client:
Will

One of many transformations built through consistency.

Nutrition coaching client:
Niko (Cosplayer)

Sustainable fat loss isn’t about extremes. It’s about showing up, tracking progress, and learning to live better — one week at a time

1 on 1 client:
Juliana

"Kris is always professional, on time, and brings great energy to every session. I truly look forward to our workouts, which says a lot coming from someone who used to dread the gym. If you’re looking for a trainer who’s consistent, effective, and genuinely cares about your progress, I highly recommend Kris."

Work with me

Ready to train with purpose? Whether your goal is performance, fat loss, discipline, or just showing up consistently — I got you.I offer personalized coaching built on real results, no BS programming, and support that meets you where you are — in-person or remote.