IHRSA Fitness Brasil 2023 Triumphs Again

For decades, the IHRSA Fitness Brasil Conference & Trade Show has been the largest, widely anticipated, and highly respected fitness, sport, health, and wellness event in Latin America. This year’s gathering—the 24th in history—occurred August 16-19 at the Transamérica Expo Center in São Paulo.

The design of the popular event's programming and offerings is to pave the road to success for owners, managers, and other staff of gyms, spas, health clubs, and hotel facilities. Fitness Brasil uniquely includes physical education and nutrition professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, major equipment manufacturers, and other service providers.

This year, 15,000 visitors took advantage of more than 30 educational programs and attended 200 lectures, hearing from hundreds of speakers. Sessions uncovered the latest trends and best practices in management, marketing, technology, and other key aspects of running a successful business in the industry.

The Trade Show, spanning more than 172,200-square-feet, featured 100 major equipment and service brands, which exhibited some 3,000 products. Visitors witnessed several new product launches first-hand and enjoyed test-driving 50 other engaging attractions. A highlight of the three-day event, visitors took advantage of meeting with company leaders one-on-one to strike deals.

IHRSA and Brazil Hold a Long, Successful History

Brazil has long been a valued IHRSA partner. Its economy is one of the world’s top ten, and its population is one of the most diverse in the world. The country is also home to South America’s highest share of global wealth.

Currently, the Brazilian market boasts some 31,000 clubs serving more than 7.9 million members. It makes sense that Brazil sends one of the largest contingents of attendees, supplier partners, and industry members to the IHRSA Convention & Trade Show. The Latin American Forum is consistently a smashing hit at the event.

At Fitness Brasil, IHRSA President & CEO Liz Clark acknowledged Brazilians and their contributions to the industry. Her address on Thursday, August 17, was a highlight.

“I am so honored to be here with you again this year,” she said. “Brazil is the heart of a thriving and innovative fitness industry in Latin America—and a dominant force in our global industry. I’d like to take a moment to recognize Monica Marques, who has been a diligent and active leader on IHRSA’s Board of Directors. Monica—obrigado, gracias, for your service and partnership. I’d also like to thank Gustavo Almeida, Samir Ferarri, and the Fitness Brasil team for their leadership on behalf of the industry.”

What Lies Ahead for the Industry

Liz took the opportunity to mention several initiatives that will benefit the industry worldwide.

“In September, we will release The 2023 IHRSA Global Report, which includes key rankings and economic data on our industry in each region worldwide,” she noted. “This report is a key tool that helps us understand our industry’s impact and growth and communicate these with government, media, and investors.”

She spoke of the upcoming IHRSA European Congress, 17-19 October, in Lisbon, Portugal, and the IHRSA Convention & Trade Show, March 6-8, 2024, in Los Angeles. Both bring global partners together for high-level meetings, networking, and educational sessions. Registration is open for the European Congress, and keep your eyes peeled for IHRSA 2024 registration, opening soon!

Speaking of global, Liz provided a brief update on what the association is doing to maintain its authority worldwide. “Our Global Health & Fitness Alliance (GHFA) continues to provide important direction and insight to IHRSA and will focus on guiding international research and data analysis projects in the year ahead.”

Liz mentioned we've bolstered the IHRSA international team with additional staff members who live and work overseas to serve a global audience at a higher level.

“We are refocusing IHRSA towards advocacy, education, and research. Advocacy will include speaking to government and NGO leaders, stakeholders, and the media. The education work will focus on providing resources and intelligence to the industry and building knowledge and skills at the convention. Our research will continue to provide reports, data, and information to help partners and members succeed in a constantly changing marketplace.

“I’m proud to serve this industry, and our IHRSA team is proud to work with you every day to support you here in Brazil, Latin America, and worldwide.”

To stay up to date on information about IHRSA Fitness Brasil 2024, visit fitnessbrasil.com.br.