Why Are We Different?
At the NExT Center (Center for Human Nutrition, Exercise, and Metabolism), we take a research-driven approach to fitness and performance. We're not a gym chasing fads or selling quick fixes. We’re a research center that helps clients in the community build strength, lose fat, and improve endurance with long-term, evidence-based programs.
Our programs are rooted in interdisciplinary research, integrating cutting-edge insights from exercise physiology and nutrition science.
Whether you're just starting your fitness journey, returning to fitness after a break, or training for peak performance, we’re here to guide you through a process that’s data-informed, educational, and effective.
What Services Are Offered?
Health and Fitness Programs
Our training options are ideal for those looking to:
- Lose fat
- Build lean muscle
- Improve strength and endurance
- Enhance physical function
We offer three core services:
- Aerobic Cardio Exercise (ACE)
- Evidence-Based Personal Training (EBPT)
- Weight Loss/Wellness Coaching (with a registered dietitian-nutritionist)
Aerobic Cardio Exercise (ACE)
If you're short on time but committed to meaningful progress, ACE delivers. This high-efficiency class blends resistance and aerobic training in a small group setting for 30–45 minute sessions, 2–3 times per week, over 12 weeks.
Designed for all fitness levels, ACE sessions drawing from the latest research on fat loss and metabolic health. Participants have seen noticeable improvements in just 12 weeks: push-up and squat performance increased by 20–35%, aerobic endurance improved by over 9%, and body mass dropped while lean muscle was preserved.
Whether you're trying to kickstart your fitness journey or break through a plateau, ACE offers an effective, research-backed path forward.
Evidence-Based Personal Training (EBPT)
Our EBPT program is designed for those who want a customized, high-touch training experience backed by data. We begin with a full intake interview and baseline fitness assessments (often including VO₂max, strength testing, and body composition analysis). This enables us to craft a program that considers where you are now as well as where you’re headed.
Our clients have improved their cardiorespiratory fitness by 3%, upper body strength by 42%, and lower body strength by 72% over six months. Another saw a 37% increase in lower body strength in just eight weeks. Aside from just the raw numbers, we also pride ourselves with helping our clients feel more comfortable, knowledgeable, and confident about fitness and exercise. These are just some examples of what happens when structured training is combined with the right support and expertise.
You'll train alongside a certified professional and leave each session not only feeling stronger but also understanding the why behind your workouts. This is training that builds knowledge, confidence, and results.
Not Sure Which Program Is Right for You?
We’ll help you choose the best path. Start with a free consultation with our Fitness Coordinator. We’ll talk through your goals and make sure you’re matched with the right program to achieve them.
Ready to start? Email us today to schedule your consultation: Chnext.training@sebs.rutgers.edu
What Are Nutrition, Lifestyle and Behavior Modification Classes?
Wellness & Weight Loss Classes (to lose weight, or just be healthier):
Currently, we are offering Nutrition classes as part of our current research projects to adults greater than 50 years of age, where you will get individualized and group classes, free body composition analysis that monitors your progress and you will contribute to our understanding of healthy weight loss options. Taught by a registered dietitian-nutritionist. If you are older than 50, use Nutrition email below to see if you are eligible for the weight loss studies!
RU-NextNutrition@sebs.rutgers.edu
To reach NExT:
Fitness Chnext.training@sebs.rutgers.edu
Nutrition RU-NextNutrition@sebs.rutgers.edu