2026 HFA European Congress to Showcase New Research Shaping the Future of Fitness
Posted: August 14, 2026 in HFA
HFA European Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Attendees at the 2026 HFA European Congress will get an exclusive look at new research and insights shaping the future of the fitness industry, including the 2026 HFA Global Report, new findings on GLP-1s and exercise and a preview of the industry’s largest global retention study.
Taking place September 24–26 at London Stadium in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and presented in partnership with ukactive and hosted locally by EVOLVE founder David Minton, the Congress will bring together senior executives, researchers, healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Europe and beyond for two days of education, connection, and insights.
“This year’s program reflects the incredible evolution of our industry,” said Greta Wagner, interim president and CEO of the Health & Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA). “We’re bringing together leaders from fitness, healthcare, technology, research, and business who are tackling the biggest opportunities facing our industry today—from AI and healthcare integration to leadership development and global market growth. These conversations will give attendees practical insights they can immediately apply while helping shape the future of our industry together.”
As part of the event, HFA will unveil the 2026 HFA Global Report, providing new data and analysis on more than 30 commercial fitness markets worldwide. Attendees will also hear the latest thinking on GLP-1s and exercise, get a preview of HFA’s forthcoming Global Retention Benchmark Report, and explore new insights and research on the UK market.
The Congress features two keynote presentations. Keepme.aiopens in a new tab Founder and CEO Ian Mullane will present an inside look at how AI agents are transforming the operations of one of the world’s fastest-growing gym businesses and allowing employees to spend more time with members. His keynote is sponsored by Keepme.ai.
Alistair Brownlee, two-time Olympic triathlon champion, entrepreneur, and investor, will offer the second keynote, sharing what separates organizations that keep pace from those that shape the future, and why leadership, adaptability, and a winning mindset will define the next era of the fitness industry.
Beyond the keynote stage, attendees will hear from an accomplished lineup of executives and thought leaders representing some of the fitness, wellness, healthcare, and business sectors’ most influential organizations, including David Lloyd Leisure, Fitness First, Lift Brands EMEA, NRG Gym Limited, Obesity Coaching Academy, Retention Guru, the Royal College of General Practitioners, Third Space Group, Urban Gym Group, and more.
Other highlights of this year’s Congress include:
- A panel featuring executives from leading European operators sharing lessons on entrepreneurship, investment, and organizational growth.
- Networking opportunities at the Opening Reception.
- A new Women’s Networking Summit, hosted in conjunction with The Collective.
- The Sponsor Marketplace where some of the industry’s top suppliers are available for one-on-one conversations.
- Two options for guided tours of some of London’s most innovative health clubs and fitness studios. Tours occur on September 26 for an additional fee.
View the full conference agenda here, and learn more about this year’s speakers here.
Register here.
