Shaping a Stronger Tomorrow
Fitting the needs of the health and fitness industry
For more than four decades, the Health & Fitness Association (HFA) has served as the unifying voice of a dynamic and growing industry. Originally formed in 1981 through the merger of the National Tennis Association and the National Court Clubs Association, the organization began its journey as the International Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IRSA), later becoming IHRSA, and officially adopting its current name, the Health & Fitness Association, in 2024.
What began as a collaborative effort to bring together key players across the physical activity industry has evolved into the world’s only global trade association dedicated to health clubs and fitness studios. At the start, HFA’s goal was to professionalize the industry and establish consistent business standards. That purpose has expanded over time and now is focused on advocacy, education, and research with the goal of ensuring that exercise is seen as an essential part of the healthcare continuum..
Championing the Industry Through Advocacy
As the sole US trade association advocating for health and fitness facility operators, HFA leads the charge to protect, promote, and grow the industry across all levels of government. At the federal level, HFA works directly with lawmakers and regulatory agencies to shape policies that position fitness as a cornerstone of preventive health and reduce unnecessary regulatory and financial burdens on operators. At the state level, HFA’s advocacy has delivered measurable results—achieving nearly 50 legislative wins in 2024 alone. Some of these wins include more time for cancelation policies, liability protections, defeating sales taxes on gym memberships and much more. These outcomes reflect HFA’s ongoing engagement with policymakers to stop harmful proposals, modernize outdated laws, and reinforce the economic and health impact of fitness businesses in every community.
This work is not only protecting the industry—it’s expanding its potential. By positioning fitness as essential infrastructure in the fight against chronic disease, HFA is helping unlock new public and private investment opportunities, from employer wellness benefits to government-backed programs for seniors and underserved populations. Internationally, HFA partners with global federations to align advocacy strategies on issues like music and television licensing that strengthen the industry worldwide. Whether in the United States or abroad, HFA ensures the fitness industry has a strong, unified voice to support its growth, credibility, and long-term value.
A Global Resource for Intelligence and Insight
HFA leads the industry in data-driven research, producing high-impact reports that shed light on consumer behavior, business performance, workforce retention, and investment opportunities. These insights not only support facility operators but also guide investors, helping unlock new growth across the sector. The scope and sophistication of HFA’s research continues to expand, reflecting the industry’s momentum and meeting the needs of operators and investors in this maturing, opportunity-rich industry.
Educating and Connecting a Global Community
From signature events like The HFA Show and European Congress to the annual Fly-In and Advocacy Summit, HFA is committed to keeping professionals informed and connected. We have expanded our education through partnerships with MEFIT PRO in Dubai, Wellness & Fitness LATAM, Fitness Brasil and ChinaFit. Our flagship publication, Health & Fitness Business, reaches a diverse network of facility operators around the world—large and small, franchised and independent, boutique and low priced. Our members receive exclusive benefits such as free access to research, discounts on education events, and discounts on equipment, supplies, and services through group purchasing programs.
Leadership and Vision for the Future
Under the leadership of President and CEO Liz Clark—who took the helm during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—the association has forged relationships with global institutions such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the Global Wellness Institute, and the OECD to ensure exercise is part of the broader discussion on wellness.
Clark has built a dedicated team of service-minded individuals who anticipate the needs of the industry and provide the research, education, and advocacy necessary to advance its members and the industry at large, As the number of gym-goers in the United States reaches a historic high and membership rates in many countries also continue to increase, HFA is poised to lead the industry through its next phase of growth. The pandemic permanently shifted public attitudes toward health, and younger generations are driving a long-term movement that values physical activity as essential for both mental and physical well-being.
Today, the association is the voice of the industry, championing the truth that physical activity is vital for the health of our communities–and fitness facilities are an important delivery source of organized physical activity.
The message is clear: Fitness is no longer a trend; It’s a way of life. And HFA is here to ensure it’s a way forward.
AT A GLANCE:
Name: The Health and Fitness Association
What: The voice of the robust health and fitness industry advocating and educating for tomorrow
Where: Boston, Massachusetts
Website: healthandfitness.org
