BOSTON, MA–15 April 2025–The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) invites health club and studio executives from around the world to register for the 2025 HFA European Congress, occurring 2-4 October in Amsterdam, Netherlands, with expanded education opportunities and two keynotes.
The event’s first-day keynoter is Les Mills Founder and Executive Director Phillip Mills, who will explore the evolution of group fitness and its future. The other keynote speaker will be announced soon.
Attendees can look forward to a curated lineup of sessions covering topics such as:
- Global Wellness Report & Special Reports in Collaboration With LeisureDB
- Harnessing the Power of Gen Z’s & Alpha’s Interest in Fitness
- Financial Panel - M&A Trends & Future Opportunities
- The Power of Partnerships
- Managing Teams in a Modern Era
- Going Staffless: Where and How It’s Working
- Growth Strategies Unpacked: Franchising, Acquisitions, and Beyond
- Shaping Modern Fitness Spaces Through Design + Data
- Unlocking the Science Behind Member Retention
Held in the iconic Beurs Van Berlage in the heart of Amsterdam just steps from Amsterdam Centraal station, this year’s Congress offers expanded programming options with the ability to select between two sessions during most time slots on 2-3 October. The event wraps on 4 October with exclusive tours of four of Amsterdam’s most innovative health clubs.
More than 600 industry professionals—including club and studio owners and operators, finance specialists, operations and marketing experts, and industry partners—are expected to attend for valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Sessions will be conducted in English with translation available in over 60 languages through Wordly!
Additional highlights include:
- The Global Advocacy Summit
- The Sponsor Marketplace
- A walking and bus club tour
- Speed meetings
- Language break-out sessions
- Round table discussions
- Exclusive networking opportunities
- Additional programming to be announced
“This year’s venue, a historic symbol of commerce, mirrors the growing impact of fitness on global communities and economies,” said Florian Cartoux, HFA EMEA director. “The HFA European Congress remains the premier gathering for top executives, offering unparalleled content and global perspectives.”
Barry Walsh, international board committee chair for the Congress, said: “The HFA European Congress is not just an event—it’s a transformative experience for industry executives. It delivers unparalleled insights into the trends and challenges shaping the future of health clubs and studios, while fostering collaboration and discussions about innovative solutions. For executives looking to seize an advantage in business and connect with other leaders shaping the industry, this event is indispensable.”
Theo Hendriks, CEO and founder of Sports and Leisure Group, will once again serve as the local host after his successful leadership in 2014. Hendriks is a key member of the HFA’s Europe Council.
“On behalf of the European Council, I am honored and excited to partner with HFA in organizing the 22nd European Congress in Amsterdam, taking place at the historic stock exchange,” Hendriks said.
Anyone conducting business in Europe or considering an expansion to the region is encouraged to attend.
For program details and registration, visit healthandfitness.org/congress.
Industry suppliers and partners interested in sponsorship or attendance should contact Lynne Devaney at ldevaney@healthandfitness.org.
