★ 5

I’ve had an amazing experience at this boxing gym. The coach is incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help you sharpen your technique. The environment is one of the best parts—everyone encourages each other, pushes one another to improve, and genuinely wants to grow together. The facility is also kept clean and well-maintained, which makes training even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone looking to learn, train, and be part of a supportive community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Solo estuve 3 días de paso, y la verdad que es genial! Te hacen sentir como si llevaras toda la vida inscrito. Buenos profesionales y buenas maneras!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

A great space covered in windows usually kept open, to make you feel the community on Fenton Street and just outside DTSS. The gym is inclusive and has a welcoming atmosphere and friendly vibe; it's beginner-friendly, with regular first-timer classes, but there's a great blend of experiences and ambitions across coaches and members. Coach Aaron is a great teacher and motivator, as are all the other coaches I've worked with.

Sparring and partner drills are easy to come by (dedicated sparring is on Wednesdays and Saturdays), but you can also do the "weekly workout" on the board that gives some direction to heavy bag work and shadowboxing. Coaches are great at either following your lead if you have particular things you want to work on or coming up with drills and patterns for general practice.

I'd never touched a boxing glove six months ago; Downtown Boxing Club has turned the sport into a passion. Can't recommend it more!

Source: Google

★ 5

I'm a 67 year old guy in decent shape. I've long contemplated boxing but I wanted to join a real boxing gym, not a foofie spa. Aaron runs a real gym and he's the best coach I've ever had, for anything. His explanations are clear, his expectations are very precise, and he's extremely patient. He works hard to get me to use the correct form for every movement and he motivates me to fight longer than I might otherwise. I highly recommend Downtown Boxing for anyone who wants to have a good workout with a lot of fun, in an authentic boxing gym.

Source: Google

★ 4

This place seems to be under new management. The trainer has skills and us passionate about the art. Great workout. Good fundamentals. Highly recommend.

Source: Google

★ 5

By far, the best experience I have ever had at any sports gym. The community at this gym is special. It is difficult to find a place where people greet you with a hello and ask for your name when you walk in, and offer you helpful advice and tips, treating you with respect. I was lucky enough to join this gym for two months. I sadly had to depart as I live in Europe, but when I come back to DC, this is immediately where I will head back. Getting advice from the coaches while also participating in sparring has grown my boxing skills tremendously. I advise anyone searching for a proper boxing gym to join this one; you will not regret it.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been boxing pretty much all my life. This gym has everything you need to be a boxer. Aaron is a great man. He uses his gifts to better people. This gym is amazing. With levels of competition and skills. I get great work and motivation from everyone at the gym. I want to personally thank all the people that work and train at this gym. Hezekiah E Doublin

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place for beginners to learn the fundamentals of boxing. Highly recommend.

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★ 5

Coach Aaron and the staff at Downtown Boxing does a great job providing a safe, friendly, and fun, learning atmosphere. Whether you are a first timer wanting to learn the basics or a person with previous boxing experience, this club and gym caters to all, regardless of age and level of experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club is a great gym, great atmosphere and community with everything you need to sharpen your boxing skills.

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★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club is amazing. Aaron and his trainers tailor your workout to your specific situation. If you’ve never boxed before and just want to get in shape, let out some stress, build your confidence, and sleep well, it’s incredible for that. If you want to build up your skills to be able to spar with others or train for a fight, you can do that, too. All in a super welcoming environment with friendly people with no egos.

Source: Google

★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club is a wonderful community! A genuine home to the sweet science of boxing. Aaron is a phenomenal coach who I immediately felt comfortable with and assured in his expertise . I look forward to going to the gym every week to learn, sweat, and catch up with the wonderful people!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

They have the great equipment with very informative coaches, all around best boxing gym to workout!

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★ 5

I’ve been training at Downtown Boxing Gym for several months now, and I can’t say enough good things about it. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get in shape or a more advanced boxer aiming to sharpen your skills, this gym has something for everyone.

The coaches are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about what they do. They take the time to work with each individual, offering personal tips and adjustments to improve your technique. It’s clear they genuinely care about your progress.

The gym has a great atmosphere. The energy during classes is motivating, and the community is welcoming and supportive.

Since joining, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my fitness, confidence, and boxing skills. It’s become the best part of my day and I always leave feeling stronger and more focused.

If you’re looking for a place to train hard, learn the sweet science of boxing, and be part of a great community, I highly recommend this place.

Source: Google

★ 5

As a first timer, this was a great class! The coaches really took time to teach the basics, help with form, and encourage you throughout. There’s a warm up, several different stations to do activities, and I love the flexibility with the schedule. I’ll definitely be back and look forward to making this a part of my routine. Thanks DBC!

Source: Google

★ 5

Actually one of the best decision in my life. Everyone there is very friendly and especially the coach! He is very gentle person and supportive. Taught me a lot of thinks and even gave me self confidence. Absolutely recommend!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Aaron, Dave, and the other trainers at DBC packed a year's worth of training into three months in order to prepare me for an amateur fight. Their approach to training boxers is all about technique and fundamentals. If you are looking for a workout class, you'll certainly get that here, but you will get a solid boxing foundation first and foremost. On top of that, you will get the support of a community. The boxers here became friends and partners in my training. Every fighter cared for me and sought to make me a better boxer so that I could be successful in the ring come fight night. I can't recommend this gym enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

DBC has a very welcoming community and a great environment. There's 1 on 1 coaching time and plenty of equipment to make sure you're ready to go.

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★ 5

I love this gym. Very inclusive and feels like a real community here. As a woman, I was concerned about trying a boxing class since it’s a male-dominated sport. Coach Aaron and Coach Dave are truly the best and made it feel fun and approachable. You won’t be disappointed here!

Source: Google

★ 5

I came across this gym by recommendation of my friend. I've been doing martial arts for a while and I have to say as soon as i came in the place felt like home. The coaches give you enough attention and theres great hours. You can come early or late the gym is open 13 hours most days. It's also good if you just want to get a workout, however most people do like to get some sparring in.

Also the people that go are cool and encouraging & inviting.
Defintely a family oriented environment, not a lot of egos.

I would say definitely give it a try if you're thinking about it!

Source: Google

★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club stands out for its outstanding coaches and inclusive community. Coaches Dave and Aaron are true professionals, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to every training session. Their personalized approach and dedication ensure that each member, regardless of fitness level, feels supported and motivated.

What truly sets Downtown Boxing Club apart is its welcoming and inclusive community. Members come from all walks of life, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere where everyone feels like they belong. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your boxing journey, Downtown Boxing Club is the perfect place to achieve your goals while being part of an amazing community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very good community and very nice equipment!

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★ 5

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★ 5

I have been going to the Downtown Boxing Club (DBC) since 2003 (when it was located in downtown DC). It's a nice place to develop or learn real boxing techniques, get a solid workout, and get in great shape. Furthermore, DBC staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I highly recommend DBC.

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★ 5

Great gym and great community

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★ 5

DBC- THE PLACE THAT TEACHES CHAMPS!!
A warm and welcoming for any level of boxer! You will never fail to learn something new here!

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★ 5

Great boxing gym and the coaches are great as well, I love this place. They will teach you technique, I have been to other gyms but this is where I learned the defense parts of boxing just not how to punch.

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★ 5

I live here in Silver Spring. This is a clean gym with great people and atmosphere. Very supportive and encouraging. I started back in February and loss 30lbs since. I definitely recommend.

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★ 5

Recently started going to this gym, absolutely recommend. Very welcoming environment and friendly coaches!

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★ 5

Amazing gym for learning how to box regardless of your experience level! I came in with little to no knowledge of boxing, and Aaron has really taken his time to teach me the basics. He tailors each session depending on the person, but he doesn't let anyone feel left out. The gym also has wraps and mitts in stock that you can borrow for each session without any extra charge!

Do note that the gym is small, so some days you might have to wait a bit longer to get a round in with the coach.

Source: Google

★ 1

Not the same gym as in the pictures. Extremely obnoxious and unfriendly manager, I believe his name was Dave. Gym does not have a lot of equipment. Missing a speed bag and is basically just a room with some boxing equipment. Avoid.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Always been a Rocky fan! And had to learn boxing in my life! So yeah, 2024 was the year to start learning the craft!

A random search on google and I found DBC! All it took for me to get a membership was just 5 mins of talk with Coach Aaron and the best thing that I was looking for which is “Real Craft”. By real craft I mean, you get to spar, fight, test what you learn.

It’s been 3 months since I joined the club. Had some sickness for 3 weeks, and when I got back, it felt like coming back to Home!

That’s what DBC really is!!!! A home with an amazingly talented family!

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is fantastic! It's old school boxing with an incredible team of coaches who want to see you improve and succeed. Everyone there is incredibly friendly and wecoming. I'm so thrilled they opened in DTSS. I highly recommend DBC to anyone, regardless of gender, age, or fitness level. You will love it!

Source: Google

★ 5

I wish I could give 6 stars.

The easy things to say are that the gym is the best place to learn and refine boxing technique, that you will get in the best shape of your life, and that Aaron and Dave have built one of those rare spaces—refreshingly free from corporate sheen and superficiality—where a genuinely supportive and motivating community can and does thrive. Just give it a try and you’ll see for yourself.

The hard thing to capture is the feeling—many rounds in, drenched with sweat, finally able to make the same uppercut motion you’ve been micro-gesturing all day, Aaron telling you to pivot harder, Dave shouting that you’re not out of steam yet (your lungs begs to differ, but somehow Dave is right)—when you realize your hobby has become an addiction.

Anyway, 5 stars will have to do.

Source: Google

★ 5

Aaron and Dave are great trainers and the workouts are awesome! Have improved a lot in the short time I’ve been going. Looking forward to the spring!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Aaron and Dave are incredibly friendly and patient coaches that are amazing teachers no matter your skill level. No matter your experience you will learn something and meet others on the same path. Money well spent.

Source: Google

★ 5

A small but legit boxing gym with an outstanding community. It's run by mainly one man with a dedication to the sweet science, coach Aaron. Dave, the old man and original founder, hangs out there too. They make everyone with the sincere desire to learn real, technique-focused boxing feel included, especially women. Some of the regulars have been training there for years. It's a really special group. They do sparring, drills, mitts, and have all the gear you need. The one downside is that, because it is such a small gym with only one or two instructors, it can get crowded on busy days. And Aaron can't always give everyone all the time they need. You will get the most out of it if you are self-directed to some degree. Regardless, I easily recommend this gym! You will be instilled with a joy for boxing! Real boxing for EVERYONE!

And the music selection is top-notch... nothing beats the classics..

Source: Google

★ 5

Great facility and location. Coach Aaron has a wealth of knowledge in the sport. Good atmosphere and energy. Highly recommend this facility!

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★ 4

A fully stocked boxing gym with Some sparring sessions. They are not looking to train youths under 13. So dont get your hopes up for your kid. They have not yet developed into a reputable boxing gym. Maybe more so for fitness then for developing fighters and getting youths involved.

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been boxing with DBC for a year and a half and it has been life changing. A true, no-nonsense, technique-focused fight gym (not boxercise) that, crucially, is very friendly and warm to beginners, (mature) teens and women. You will not be pushed to spar or compete when you do not want to. But trust me, after doing this for a bit, you will definitely want to test yourself, whether through sparring or amateur competitions.

Dave and Aaron are the best around, and you will definitely get in the best shape of your life, physically and mentally, if you stick with it.

I have met some of the best people in DC through DBC!

Source: Google

★ 5

Great establishment great place to learn and great hours keep up the great work!!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great hard work and good people every time. Definitely a pleasure and learned a lot working with coach, always looking forward to my next visit.

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★ 5

Awesome place wether your a beginner or advanced level boxer. I've been training with them for a while now and enjoy myself everytime I'm in the gym! Great coach who is willing to work with you at any level you're at!!!

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★ 5

Was looking for a gym where I can learn proper boxing technique and not just cardio. Aaron and Dave have not disappointed. I enjoy every session with them!

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★ 5

The doors of Downtown Boxing Club are open to all adults 18+ at all times. If you're looking forward to sharpening you boxing skills or to just get in shape for the warmer seasons, please, don't hesitate to become a member.

Source: Google

★ 5

My experience as a former college athlete, but total beginner to boxing has been spectacular. Coach Aaron and Coach Dave are knowledgeable, challenging and fun! The 'Workout of the Day' is always focused on developing a particular part of the craft, sparring sessions are fun and safe. I'd recommend this to anyone- at any level of athletics, fitness or boxing.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great place and vibes,,everyone welcome to learn great community love it!!! Keep up the great work.

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★ 5

Great coach, great environment!

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★ 5

I love training here I come consistently during the week. Great instructors great members ask for Aaron he is truly a wealth of knowledge and adapts to each student he work with.

Helps you to build your own special style and skillset.

Downtown!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

The coaches are great professionals , top notch equipment

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★ 5

I could not imagine a better boxing gym. Both Aaron and Dave are awesome coaches that know how to push you while keeping things fun. You’ll get lots of individual attention and will learn a craft. Boxing has become the thing I look forward to most every week, and I’ve gotten in much better shape as a result.

Aaron has also built an incredible community around the gym including people of all skill levels. I look forward to working with and competing against other members every time I go.

If you’re thinking about giving boxing a try, you won’t find a better place than Downtown Boxing Club.

Source: Google

★ 5

great gym, even better community. i was excited to hear they were opening up in silver spring as i have been looking for a boxing gym that wasn’t a fitness class. whether you’re just starting your boxing journey or a more experienced boxer looking to get some good work in, DBC is a great place.

Source: Google

★ 5

You'll be hard pressed to find another gym this special. Aaron (head coach) puts a lot of work into this place, from teaching members how to improve and better technique and power, to building a dope community. Also a lot of variety of boxers here from beginners to experienced boxers and people transitioning from other sports. 10/10.

Source: Google

★ 5

The gym is truly exceptional, offering top-notch coaching that goes above and beyond. Aaron, in particular, stands out for his remarkable ability to cultivate a sense of camaraderie among members while simultaneously fostering a healthy spirit of competition. For instance, he regularly organizes sparring matches that not only push us to excel but also strengthen our bonds as a community. It's this unique blend of mentorship and motivation that sets this gym apart.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great people, great classes!! Absolutely would recommend, always great to see them in the neighborhood.

Source: Google

★ 5

Short Story: Aaron and Dave have a great thing going! They're wonderful people to be coached by no matter the skill level and will introduce you to a loving, inclusive, and accepting community!

Long Story:

Their success story of overcoming the adversity brought by COVID is inspiring. From having a gym to losing it--to their continued growth and success by repurposing a roof and the local park-- and to eventually securing a new gym space in Silver Spring--DBC is a true attestment to the power of what dedication, love for the sport, and community involvement can create.

I started DBC on that awesome rooftop 8 months ago with no prior experience. It's amazing to witness the care and intricacy with which Aaron and Dave coach and teach. The coaching is very personal, and every session has a unique and specific purpose to the individual. Personally, I wanted to avoid the "workout class" environment (i.e. rumble) and find a gym that I could learn the art of the sport. Within a month, Aaron and Dave introduced me to sparring--and I'll have to say, it's probably one of the most fulfilling and hardest cardio workouts I've done. Aaron and Dave hold safety as paramount, and I've always felt they've had my best interests at heart while effectively pushing me to make me grow as a boxer.

Anyways, enough words. I'll see you all at the gym and you all can see for yourselves!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Boxing with Aaron is one of my favorite parts of the week! Dave and Aaron guide with expertise, confidence, and fun. They are so encouraging and supportive. Plus it's very cathartic : )

Source: Google

★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club is best boxing gym I’ve been to! Coach Aaron is very easy to work with and an excellent teacher. The training atmosphere pushes you to get in shape and learn the fundamentals. Check out Downtown Boxing Club if you’re looking for a new gym or just trying to get back in shape.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best boxing gym and community in the area. Hands down.

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★ 5

I was anxious about trying boxing for the first time and kept putting it off, but I'm so glad I finally tried out Downtown Boxing Club. It's so much fun, a great stress reliever, and a solid workout. Fitting in a few lessons per month has improved my physical and mental well-being. Plus, Coach Aaron and Coach Dave are the best. DBC is a rare find in DC. If you're thinking about trying boxing for the first time, I 100% recommend giving them a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Downtown Boxing Club has been an integral part of my boxing journey! Aaron is an amazing and patient coach with a strong emphasis on proper technique, and working closely with him has taught me so much about the sport. His lessons are fun & empowering!

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★ 5

Dave and Aaron are fantastic coaches. They create a great atmosphere and are very knowledgeable about boxing.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great environment with awesome coaches and gear available!

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★ 5

Such an amazing and welcoming community. I’ve learned so much as a newbie to boxing.

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★ 5

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★ 5

The best boxing gym in DC! Coach Aaron and coach Dave are the best trainers in the area.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Best place to learn, practice, improve boxing and spar in DC. Very fun and respectful atmosphere, excellent sparring partners and a great coach. Highly recommended.

Source: Google

★ 5

I started off with Downtown Boxing many years ago to improve my fitness and learn the basics of boxing. Thought I’d do it for a few months and now 2 locations and many years later I can’t wait to get back at it. It’s no a no frills, no nonsense atmosphere and I mean that in the best possible way.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Been working with aaron for almost a year now. Great trainer. Will work with whatever skill level you are looking to reach. Very knowledgable of the sport. Will definitely get you in shape fast too.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been coming to Downtown Boxing Club for years and I have only great things to say about Dave and the whole experience. You will not regret coming here.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been boxing at DBC with Aaron and Dave as my coaches for 12 years. It is the best boxing gym in DC for whatever you want in return. Cardio, sparring or actual ring work. It is a legitimate boxing gym and many of the best boxers in the Beltway train here. Oh, and Smokin' Joe Frazier cites it as the only gym in DC to learn boxing. I guess that's not too bad.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Hands down the best boxing gym/club in the city. This is the only gym in the city I've tried that gives the kind of attention to correct form and technique that really sets you up for success (and avoid injuries!). Aaron is the best coach I've work with, he will push you to your limit to get you to the next level. I also love how the student boxers and coaches have a pretty solid "family feel" to it - very much like old school boxing gyms do. I can't wait to get back in the ring!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

One of the best gyms in DC. Training with Dave was such an incredible experience and I felt like I grew so much as a boxer. The community is one of the best in DC and is super welcoming to such a tough sport. Can’t recommend DBC enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

Really great thoughtful coach, looking forward to getting back soon!

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★ 5

One of the best decisions of my life was to go here.

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★ 5

Fantastic boxing gym. Great workout, and it’s fun. Dave runs a good program.

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★ 5

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★ 5

This ain’t a gym this is a movement. Through the pandemic this club got better. The people that have joined this community at Downtown Boxing Club are stronger for it. Thank you for showing me what passion fitness really looks and feels like. 🙏🏽

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

👍 Excellent place to start my training and learning

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★ 5

Great workout for all levels. Super discipline training. Good club vibe all around.

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★ 5

Hands down the greatest workout you can get. Dave doesn’t manage a gym, he manages a community, a family. He is a wealth of knowledge and if you’re willing to learn, this is the place. You’ll get the best workout of your life, you’ll make solid connections and you’ll learn how to box. You won’t have to punch it out to the beat, listen to loud music or deal with anybody who’s looking to become the next boxing influencer. This is a real boxing gym, run by a real boxer.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Best boxing instruction in DC

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★ 5

straight up best boxing gym in the 202 by far

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★ 5

A REAL boxing club for everyone. Women welcome as ibcan attest.

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★ 5

Great place

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★ 5

Good place

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★ 5

Dave and Aaron know their stuff! Amidst all the cookie cutter boxercise studios littering DC, this is where to go for genuine boxing training with a genuine community of boxers

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

DBC is like no other boxing gym in DC. I’ve trained here for years for a lot of reasons. To start, I saw immediate and lasting results in my overall conditioning. I value and respect the trainers’ methods and guidance. I appreciate how the classes are structured. I’m able to focus on improving my technique while figuring things out at my own pace. It’s a welcoming and supportive environment for new or experienced boxers, regardless of whether you’re there for a serious workout or sparring in the ring.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Absolutely love working with Dave and Aaron at Downtown. Hooked up with them last summer when I moved to DC. I’d been boxing for a decade or so and was having trouble finding a gym I like here, but have now learned a ton from both of these guys and have a ton of fun sparring with Aaron and other DBC folks. It’s a great group of people that love boxing.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

This is the perfect place for beginners and laying the ground work for boxing. Dave is really knowledgeable, it might feel like you start off slow but he really lays a foundation for what you need to excel. I have since moved on to another gym and have competed but I owe the foundation of my work at DBC.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I saw Dave White box in Texas and he is the real deal. Training with him is a good value.

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★ 5

Went to DBC for about 8 years and LOVED every single workout. Great community. Coach Dave is an iconic, perfect, super amazing coach.

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★ 5

Worked out at this gym for five years. Dave White is the best boxing coach in the region. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Without a doubt the most rewarding and enjoyable workout experience I've ever had. Been a member (no contract; pay-as-you-go) for 4+ years now. I lost 30 pounds and have kept it off. Went from running an 11-minute mile pace to a best of 7:28 per mile largely because of the endurance and breathing techniques I've developed through boxing.

I had never boxed before I joined this gym, but I was a competitive athlete until college. I joined because I wanted to get fit again after too many years of sedentary lifestyle, and now I'm in the best shape of my life. I feel happier and more confident.

I love the sense of community this gym offers. A lot of the same folks, young professionals, men and women, have been coming here for years. New folks are always welcome. We help each other. Group workouts mean we suffer together. :-) Having a trainer creates a sense of accountability, too. I find it motivates me more than a regular gym. Our trainer knows what he's talking about, and he invests in every member, no matter the experience level or gender, any of that.

As a testament to the quality of his training, we have three guys who have won belts and accolades like "All American." (Sparring is optional, though, and most people don't spar.) He runs this gym by himself, too, a small business owner. Offering trials or customized sessions would take his attention away from members, which wouldn't be fair.

** Readers may also notice from reviews that DBC has a loyal following of athletes who love this gym and our trainer. Negative reviews tend to come from salty people who have not spent real time at the gym and, quite frankly, have no idea what they are missing in terms of community and fitness. More bag time for the rest of us!

Source: Google

★ 5

The real deal

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★ 5

I've been boxing with DBC for 5 years now. When I came in, I knew nothing. Dave instilled a love of the sport in me. The community welcomed me and helped me grow. Over the past year, Aaron has taken my skills to the next level. He is down to earth, friendly, and a wonderful teacher. What started as a sometime hobby has turned into a big part of my life of which I am very proud.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

I joined DBC in about 2007 and worked out there until 2019 when the Union Market location shut. I was at DBC through two moves (from Metro Center to Blagden Alley and, then, from Blagden to Union Market) and plan to go back once the gym re-opens. The workouts at the gym are hands down the best I've ever had (and I played collegiate soccer, wrestled, etc.). To be clear, Downtown Boxing is not "boxercize" nor is it a fancy country club-type gym where people wear makeup and play on their phones; this is a real boxing gym. It is raw. There is sweat. There is sparring. It is what you want in a boxing gym. Having said that, the manager/trainers are patient and will spend the time needed for you to learn the basics and, then, improve. Boxing is hard. But, the gym is full of great people and the rewards are seen in short order. I can't recommend this place enough. Open back up!!! Go away COVID!

Source: Google

★ 5

A wonderful boxing gym with caring coaches and an incredibly supportive community. I've been a loyal student of this historic business for over four years. I stepped in as a complete novice and throughout my time here the coaches have patiently helped me master the basics and gotten me into the ring for regular sparring. Their approach is to allow the student to master the techniques at their own pace and to choose whether their goal is solely on fitness or to advance into the ring, and many members have gone on to compete. This gym's focus is thankfully zero-hype or marketing cheese, which is remarkably refreshing in DC. A true dedicated focus on the love of the sport is the real reason why this boxing gym is one of the DC's best-kept secrets.

Source: Google

★ 5

Ive been training with DBC since it was in the Union Market location and love it! When i started I never boxed before and Dave was excellent when it came to teaching the fundamentals. DBC is no-nonsense operation in the best way. The trainers care about the people who workout there and ensure that it is a safe, welcoming environment for boxers of all levels. I'd highly recommend and look forward to the opening of the new location!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

I am looking forward to DBC re-opening. It's the only place that's geared toward getting you in the ring and keeping you there.

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★ 5

This place is awesome and I am really enjoying learning how to box! It is a great and fun workout!

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★ 5

I love DBC. I've gotten to learn the basics of boxing in a personalized and super friendly way, and I the workout is varied and awesome. My punches are better, I'm getting faster, I can go longer, and the whole thing is fun as hell. I've literally recommended it to all of my friends.

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★ 1

Trainer Dave White is obnoxious. Came here last year to try it out. Didn't' learn anything except for his love for Trump and his days as wrestler. Complete waste of time. Don't sign up.

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 2

No proper boxing equipments, no coaching just an yelling old man who doesn’t know about boxing. Waste of time and money. The only good things is the gym has free parking and it’s located close to metro station.

Source: Google

★ 1

I tried this place out 8 months ago. I got lost and came late for my first class and it was a big deal! He laughed at my gear and said it wasn't good enough quality (the gloves, wraps, and mouth piece are completely fine). He asked questions like he was interested in my history only to repeat: 'this isn't San Diego, this isn't City Boxing, and I'm not Manny. If you want to train here we'll do it my way and we'll start from square one.' The only reason I went to this gym in the first place was because of the price but the first encounter is much worse than the photos appear. Avoid!! Plus I didn't see any quality in the building, it felt like an old person, overweight boxing cult.

Source: Google

★ 1

This was my first boxing gym and I worked out here for about a year and a half. It has a few good things going for it (parking, convenience, etc.), but the place is honestly kind of a sinking ship at this point. I can’t in good conscience recommend it… The owner, Dave White, was probably at one time an okay boxer/trainer. He is now on his last leg physically, but also sadly becoming more mentally ill each day.

Dave comes off as strict or methodic at first. He is often described as “running a tight ship”, or “old school”, and that might have once described his demeanor; however, it’s increasingly become just sporadic fits of yelling or feedback that doesn’t seem to align with reality. For a good long while, I simply brushed this off and stayed the course because his gym is cheap and convenient to attend. I began to become concerned when he began expressing severe signs of paranoia and hostility.

For example, for two weeks, out of nowhere, he made everyone keep their gear and change very close to where he sits, because he was sure that “people were stealing things”. No one had heard of anyone ever having anything stolen. He also began becoming increasingly agitated when noticing anyone in the gym having conversations (before/after workouts) of which he was not included. You will notice him walking over to do things nearby to eavesdrop, as if he's having anxiety that people are talking about him.

Dave has some sort of major issue with the owner of the gym that he shares space with. He forbids his students from working-out there (citing old school theory that lifting weights makes you a bad boxer). You’ll see his sign on the wall. He takes it a step further by forbidding his students from talking or associating with the owner/workers at that gym, and even further by forbidding students from buying Gatorade from their desk. I’ve witnessed him have intense verbal altercations with the owner out of nowhere. This kind-of came to a head with me personally when Dave tried to forbid my visiting elderly dad (who has no association with Dave at all) from working out there through me.

About once every week or two, Dave will randomly have an altercation with a student and “kick them out”. This was where he began to take particular issue with me. He did it with a new guy who I saw working very hard. Dave randomly blew up on the guy and kicked him out because Dave said he was not progressing fast enough on day 2. I spoke with the guy a few minutes on his way out and tried to give him some encouragement. Dave was furious, later accused me of butting into his business, and called the guy a psycho, and thug (he was a very polite professional African American guy). I suspect he made Dave nervous because he was very large and African American. I’ve noticed this behavior to be much more frequent with African American students.

If you are interested in ever competing in a tournament, this is not the place. Dave’s Gym is actually not registered, nor is he a certified Corner-man with any boxing Assoc. Ask him about it and he goes on a rant about how they are garbage, take part in illegal activities, cheat, and how “you don’t want to get involved with them”. He will eventually kick you out if he suspects you’re training for anything outside of his gym (seen it happen).

You can learn how to box here, but not because of the owner, really more despite him. He has a decent beginner lesson that gets you started week 1, but after that, most learning will come with repetition, watching others, and Youtube. You’ll get 3-4 minutes of basic mitten work per class (if he has the energy that day) which will only consist of basic right straights, circling, and an occasional left jab.

Personally I think this place will end with Dave having some sort of nervous breakdown as I see he is very quickly degrading to that end. It is very sad, but unfortunately the truth. I will be far away from it when that happens, boxing elsewhere.

Source: Google

★ 4

Source: Google

★ 5

been going to dave for years now and he's the best there is -- will teach you all the basics from beginner up and help you grow over time. runs a tight, efficient class and cares about each student. He's got a few rules, but if you follow them and are willing to listen and learn you'll succeed.

Source: Google

★ 5

No nonsense. Great workout!

Source: Google

★ 1

Basically turned me down because I play softball and thinks my throwing motion could lead to incorrect punches hitting his wrist too hard. Stayed to watch a workout session and wasn't impressed. Everyone he was training had poor form, a lack of explosiveness and was clearly going through the motions. Very disappointing because he offers the most affordable pricing for those not making that Capitol Hill money.

Source: Google

★ 2

My observations based on 1 month of training:

Pros:
1.Plenty of free parking space
2.No obligation to sign a cumbersome contract

Cons:
1.No speed bag
2.Daily training routine not intense enough, you could get a better workout by training yourself.
3.Coach’s reason for strongly opposing weight training is irrational.
4.Coach is too strict about the high guard stance and the slightest deviation from that will only bring you admonishment. This style is too amateurish in my humble opinion and does not suit everyone.
5.Teaches flatfooted footwork.
6.Does not believe in combinations to set up a knockout punch.
7.His so called premier amateur boxers are sluggish, plodding and telegraphs their punches; you can see it coming a mile away. This can be attributed to the coach's inflexible, stubborn, outdated method of training.

Conclusion: Great place for people looking for some casual boxing training with no commitment to a contract. If you have aspirations to become a pro, look elsewhere.

Source: Google

★ 1

Hands down the worst professionalism I have ever witnessed. The trainer and technique this guy teaches is horrible. No locker room, no coaching, the owner has no clue how to box.

I grew up boxing, just moved to town, I went in asking about training, he got mad that I went and talked to the fitness gym next door and said that if a person lifts weights they can't box in the gym, Ridiculous. He said that if you lift weights you will hit his focus mits to hard and hes too old.

I felt so bad for all of the guys and girls that were in there attempting to learn how to box. It was bad...real bad.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is the perfect place for beginners, or anyone looking for the best workout in DC. Everyone in the gym is very nice and mostly white collar. The more advanced guys love helping others improve their technique. If you want to learn how to actually fight you can spar without worrying about black eyes and a broken nose.

The trainer, Dave White, is a straight shooter. He does things his way or its the highway. He may come off a little abrasive, but once he is familiar with you he is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. He is also very knowledgeable about a lot of topics, so the conversations in the gym are always healthy.

Overall, it is the best gym in DC for an incredible workout.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google