As the fitness industry continues to evolve—fueled by advances in technology, shifting wellness trends, and a growing emphasis on community engagement—select conferences stand out as must‑attend events for fitness professionals seeking to grow their skills, expand their networks, and stay ahead of the curve. Here’s a deeper look at two marquee gatherings shaping industry trends this year.
The IDEA World Health & Fitness Convention returns to Sacramento for the first time since 1982, bringing together fitness and wellness professionals from more than 80 countries. Hosted at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center from July 17–19, 2025, the convention will feature more than 175 sessions across ten specialized tracks, including personal training, nutrition, behavioral change, group fitness, mind–body disciplines, exercise science, and active aging. Attendees can earn up to 22 continuing education credits (CECs) while exploring the latest trends in training and wellness.
The event also includes a large-scale Fitness & Nutrition Expo that is open to the public and free of charge. This expo showcases cutting-edge equipment, wearable technologies, and recovery and nutrition solutions from industry leaders such as NASM, Merrithew, Perform Better, and Lifetime Fitness. Special highlights of the weekend include the Golden Gala of Distinction and the IDEA Fitness Awards, with appearances from industry pioneers like Elaine LaLanne, who will be honored for her lifelong contributions to fitness. With its walkable downtown, green spaces, and vibrant local food scene, Sacramento offers a fitting backdrop to this energizing event. Organizers anticipate over 5,000 attendees to participate in what has become one of the most inspiring and community-driven conferences in the fitness world.
Meanwhile, the Connected Health & Fitness Summit, held February 11–13, 2025, in Los Angeles, draws an executive crowd with a strong emphasis on the intersection of fitness, health, and technology. Now in its sixth year, the summit hosts approximately 450 delegates, including representatives from Nike, Adidas, Garmin, SoulCycle, Google, Meta, WHOOP, and Equinox. The event is known for offering more than 10 hours of high-level networking opportunities, including up to 18 structured one-on-one meetings.
Key themes for the 2025 summit include digital transformation in fitness, longevity and preventive healthcare, social wellness, business model innovation (such as GLP‑1 treatments, IV drips, and blood testing), and diversity and inclusion efforts. The event will also feature an Innovation Showcase, where entrepreneurs can pitch their products directly to investors, as well as the debut of several new industry awards, such as Personalization Prodigy and Fit‑Tech Hardware Excellence. Pre-conference activities like guided hikes and informal meetups help set a collaborative tone for the days ahead.
The summit places a strong focus on the practical application of technology within fitness and wellness settings, emphasizing tools like AI, wearable integration, and data-informed coaching strategies. This makes it especially relevant for fitness leaders looking to stay competitive and future-proof their business models.
While IDEA World and the Connected Summit are standout events, other key conferences in 2025 include The Fit Expo in Los Angeles (January 25–26), which features celebrity-led workouts and fitness product showcases; the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA) Show in Las Vegas (March 12–14), targeting gym owners and operators; and the Yoga Expo in Pasadena (January 25), offering holistic sessions on yoga, meditation, and mental wellness.
To get the most out of these events, attendees are encouraged to register early, especially to take advantage of discounted rates. Mapping out a personal schedule that balances educational sessions with networking and product exploration can maximize value. Extending one’s stay to engage in community workouts or city-based activities can also enhance the experience. Following up with contacts and joining post-event communities helps solidify new partnerships and learning.
For fitness professionals aiming to elevate their careers, credentials, or business ventures in 2025, the IDEA World Health & Fitness Convention and the Connected Health & Fitness Summit stand out as top-tier opportunities. IDEA World offers an energetic blend of practical education, certification access, and motivational programming. In contrast, the Connected Summit provides a high-level strategic perspective tailored for leaders integrating technology and health innovation into their operations. Attending one or both can significantly enhance your perspective on where the industry is heading—and how to succeed within it.
