Boxing gyms have a reputation for being gritty, intimidating, and occasionally smelling like an old pair of shoes. But the modern fitness landscape is changing, moving from the gritty gym to space rentals with heavy bags. To build a boxing program that thrives in today’s demand, you need to balance the authenticity of a fighter’s gym with the professionalism of a premium cardio boxing or fitness studio.

Next Level Boxing has embraced the demands we hear from our members and community. It’s about time St. Louis got a boxing gym that goes beyond providing space and equipment. Hear what we are doing to provide St. Louis’s premium boxing experience and team:

1. Curriculum

A great program isn't just hitting a bag. We balance three distinct pillars that we think are crucial to training:

• Technical Excellence: Teaching the "sweet science” of footwork, head movement, defensive technique and offensive technique. Even "fitness boxers" want to feel like they are learning a real skill. We provide high-level technical instruction alongside a great workout.
• Conditioning: High-intensity intervals (HIIT), metabolic conditioning, and the endurance that boxers are famous for are easily achieved when you are learning and having fun. We target different workout types to ensure a well-rounded athlete.
• The "Vibe": The music, the energy of the coach, the rhythm of the round timer, and the person next to you making you crack a smile. The vibe and culture of our gym is second to none… This culture attracts some of the most incredible people, who end up becoming lifelong friends.

2. Tiered Classes and Levelling Up

One of the biggest mistakes gyms make is throwing a Day 1 beginner into a class with seasoned amateurs. This is both intimidating to the member and a risk for the gym. Next Level means getting to YOUR Next Level. We are conscientious about where you are in skill and athleticism when you walk through our door, and we have not yet met a person who “wasn’t ready” that we could not train, meeting them exactly where they were.

• Boxing 101: Our instruction looks at each individual and tailors training to them. For new members, stance, the six basic punches, and how to wrap hands might be the focus, while more advanced members work on a very specific part of their game.
• Technical Sparring: A controlled, invitation-only class for those who want to test their skills safely. This provides a safe and controlled opportunity to practice skills with resistance that further refines capability. The best and most effective martial arts and martial artists are “stress tested”. This is completely optional, and some members choose to focus on technical classes and bag work only.
• Boxing Fitness: Whether or not you want to spar, our classes are an exceptional way to get in shape and meet those health goals you set at the beginning of the year. A high-energy, bag-heavy class for those who want the workout without the contact and live sparring will push you to that Next Level.

3. Equipment

Your gear is your training partner. If your heavy bags are lumpy or your floor mats are peeling, this distracts from your training and can potentially pose risks. Having the right type of equipment and well-maintained equipment is a top priority at Next Level.

• Variety is Key: We provide heavy bags for power, wrecking balls for uppercuts, and double-end bags for timing. We have pads and equipment for partner work and other specific tools and equipment to refine your skills.
• Cross-training: We do more than just boxing. Go to a grappling class, knock out some squats in our fitness area, or put in some rounds on the attack bike. We ensure you have a well-rounded training opportunity.
• Safety First: We consistently maintain our equipment and replace it when it becomes worn out or obsolete. We will ensure you have the best equipment while you train.

4. Coaches, Not Just Fighters

Being a great boxer doesn't make someone a great teacher. At Next Level, we are fortunate to have both great coaches who are great boxers, and this creates a premium training opportunity for others:

• Technically Proficient: Our coaches are masters of technique and know how to easily and efficiently pass that knowledge onto students. They have mastered the art of boxing and coaching.
• Motivational: Our coaches can be supportive and motivational, keeping the class moving while ensuring it is a fun and exciting environment.
• Personable: The "scary coach" trope is outdated. Our members stay for coaches who know their names, their goals, and create a fun, family-friendly environment.

5. "Team" Culture

Boxing is often a solitary sport, but a boxing gym should feel like a team.

• Organized Sparring Nights and events: Controlled exhibitions followed by a social hour or travelling to an event as a team. Culture is everything. Let’s have fun.
• Competitions: When our fighters compete, we make an effort to rally around them as a team. Often, putting in more training to help them prepare and supporting them during the event. It’s a fun and meaningful team culture.
• Family: Our members become more than just a team; they start to feel like family, and many become lifelong friends. Outside of training, our community supports one another and creates an environment that is inviting and friendly. Want to train while your kids play with their friends or do homework in our lounge area? No problem!

The Gold Medal Standard

Our goal was to create an environment where a mother of 3, a corporate executive, and a competitive amateur feel equally at home. When you combine authentic technique with our clean, organized, and high-energy environment, you create a program that people don't just join, they belong to.