First-class nerves are normal. Chaos is not. A good beginner session should feel clear from minute one.
What to bring and what to stop overthinking
Preparing for your first class at Davinci Fighting is simple. You do not need special gear, a fighter mindset or some magical level of fitness.
Clothing: Comfortable sportswear, such as a t-shirt, shorts or leggings. For BJJ, longer sleeves and trousers are a good idea.
Water bottle: Combat sports get sweaty fast.
Towel: Useful and simple.
Equipment: Trial gear can be provided, so there is no need to buy gloves or shin guards before you know what you like.
The gym is at Chaussee de Haecht 1133 in Evere, about 2 minutes from Bordet Station. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you can meet the coach and get settled without rushing.
Choosing your first discipline
Davinci Fighting offers four disciplines. The right first choice is the one you are most likely to repeat next week.
Boxing: the cleanest striking entry point. Great if you want simple structure, cardio and fast technical feedback.
Kickboxing: like boxing with kicks added. More explosive, more full-body, slightly more demanding from the start.
MMA: the most complete format, combining striking and grappling. Best if you want the whole picture.
BJJ: ground grappling with no striking. Ideal if technique appeals to you more than getting hit.
If you are new to Brussels or want a club that is easy to navigate in English, the page on combat sports for expats in Brussels is also worth a look.
What the first class actually feels like
You arrive: the coach or front-desk contact points you in the right direction, and you get sorted without guesswork.
The session is explained: you know what the class is about before moving.
You drill basics: stance, movement or core technical patterns, with corrections that make sense.
You do controlled partner work: enough contact to learn, not enough chaos to make the first day stupid.
You finish knowing the next step: which class to book again, what to bring, and whether the discipline fits you.
As a first-timer, you will not be thrown into sparring to prove anything. A good gym shows its quality through organisation, not bravado.
How to tell a club is worth joining
Most beginners ask the wrong question. It is not "was the class hard enough?" It is "was the class clear enough to make me want to come back?"
The coach can explain the drill in plain language.
Experienced members do not treat beginners like traffic cones.
Intensity is managed, not improvised.
You leave with a clear idea of what happens next.
Davinci Fighting does well on exactly these basics, which is why people stick after the trial.
Common fears, answered quickly
"I am not fit enough": training is how you get fit. Starting fit is not the job.
"I will look ridiculous": everyone starts awkwardly. Anyone pretending otherwise is lying.
"I will get hurt": beginners are introduced progressively, not thrown into chaos.
"I am too old": adult beginners start every year. This is not a teen-only club.
How to decide after the trial
After your free first class, there is no pressure to commit on the spot. The useful test is simple:
Could you follow the class without feeling lost?
Did you feel safe and coached?
Is the location realistic after work or on weekends?
Did the discipline itself make you want to come back?
If the answer is yes, subscriptions start at 49 EUR/month for one discipline or 75 EUR/month for full access.
Practical next step
Address: Chaussee de Haecht 1133, 1140 Evere, Brussels, Belgium
