The Next Level has often been called "the missing course" from most college majors which involve physique development. Hands-on, peer-centered, and user-controlled, rarely has there been such a successful and ambitious program assembled, merging academic methods of learning with practical "real-life" experiences. The Next Level assembles accomplished physique and strength athletes onto functional
teams of between 5 and 10 athletes, organizing them into peer-led, peer-learning structures focused on all possible aspects of Physique Sports - bodybuilding, powerlifting, "Strongman," and Olympic-style lifting. No two "runs" of the Next Level have ever been the same. Teams meet regularly, and are presented each meet with a new concept. As a team, they work through concepts in order to gain information, develop unique methods, and understand the "practical applications" of their work. All athletes on Next level teams compete in physique sports events, accompanied and assisted (and typically competing along with) their team mates and coaches. Competition is used NOT as the end-goal - this is not "competition school." Competition is used to frame a structure for learning, and setting a demanding bar for the excellence of performance. In this process, athletes are exposed to topics which range from the typical, such as diet concepts, training theory and sports prep, on through topics like cultural impact, historical relevance, social and media influences, and psychological importance. Throughout the process is a heightened sense of personal attention and awareness. Many athletes evan have remarkably transformative experiences by the time the fully complete their program. Team members are often competitive athletes, personal trainers, post-graduates in the fitness academics, and of course experienced physique sports competitors. However, sometimes teammates are merely individuals with remarkable aptitude who have shown a diligent loyalty to their sports craft. The Next Level is the premier program in The PhysiQademy, an initiative to create learning environments for more meaningful, practical approaches to physique development and the personal betterment concerns that are related.
