--- title: Research & Advocacy Track - 2025 HFA Show description: "Join a global community of clubs, studios, and industry partners at #TheHFAShow." image: https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hubfs/25CV_ThumbnailFinal-1.png --- [Go Back Up ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-research-advocacy-track-2025#top) March 12-14, 2025 | Las Vegas, Nevada # A New Era of Global Wellness Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Donec tristique odio id leo mattis, ac pulvinar magna rhoncus. Aenean mollis, neque in laoreet suscipit, orci arcu blandit est, [Register Now](https://www.example.com) Watch Video × [Open video transcript in new window.](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-research-advocacy-track-2025#) ![HFA team in membership booth](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/membership-columnwidth-2500.jpg?width=2500&height=1668&name=membership-columnwidth-2500.jpg) Conference Track ## Research & Advocacy   The research and advocacy track connects fitness industry leaders with cutting-edge health and fitness industry information and insights so they can stay ahead of the curve. Plug in to this track to learn about: - The forces that shape the health and fitness industry on a local, national, and global level - The latest insights on threats the industry is facing - HFA's powerful advocacy work and how you can get involved - The latest industry data and trends that are driving the future of the health and fitness industry CTA ![DG6_0887-1-1](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/DG6_0887-1-1.jpeg?width=650&height=480&name=DG6_0887-1-1.jpeg) [View All Tracks](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-tracks#tracks) ## Research & Advocacy The research and advocacy track connects fitness industry leaders with cutting-edge health and fitness industry information and insights so they can stay ahead of the curve. Plug in to this track to learn about: - The forces that shape the health and fitness industry on a local, national, and global level - The latest insights on threats the industry is facing - HFA's powerful advocacy work and how you can get involved - The latest industry data and trends that are driving the future of the health and fitness industry ## Research & Advocacy Sessions - MAR 12 - MAR 13 - MAR 14 MAR 12 1. 9:15 am - 10:15 am #### Global Wellness - State of the Industry As the global fitness and wellness industry continues to evolve, businesses must navigate shifting consumer behaviors, economic and geopolitical uncertainty, and the increasing role of technology. In this session, industry leaders will explore the state of the industry and the defining characteristics of the fitness market in 2025 and beyond. Panelists will discuss emerging trends, the evolving role of fitness facilities, and the factors shaping the industry's long-term trajectory. - ![Anton Severin](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Anton%20Severin.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=Anton%20Severin.jpg) ##### Anton Severin VP, Research, HFA - ![Karlie_Intlekofer_2](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Karlie_Intlekofer_2.jpg?width=200&height=200&name=Karlie_Intlekofer_2.jpg) ##### Dr. Karlie Intlekofer Global Research Scientist, Matrix Fitness - ![EmmettWilliams-1](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/EmmettWilliams-1.jpg?width=210&height=210&name=EmmettWilliams-1.jpg) ##### Emmett Williams Chair, AusActive - ![MitchellKeyes](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/MitchellKeyes.jpg?width=467&height=467&name=MitchellKeyes.jpg) ##### Mitchell Keyes Global VP Operations, Purpose Brands 2. 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm #### The Role of Advocacy in Advancing & Protecting the Industry HFA is working to give the industry a seat at the table by uniting voices on key public policy issues. This session will cover essential advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. and state capitals, focusing on protecting the industry’s interests and ensuring long-term success. Learn about the importance of a strong federal presence, building relationships with state lawmakers, and the critical role of a well-funded PAC in supporting congressional champions. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of HFA's advocacy strategies and how they help position the industry for success. - ![mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200.jpg) ##### Mike Goscinski VP, Government Affairs, HFA - ![EricZulkosky](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/EricZulkosky.jpeg?width=500&height=500&name=EricZulkosky.jpeg) ##### Eric Zulkosky Fierce Government Affairs - ![larissa-martin](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/larissa-martin.jpg?width=751&height=751&name=larissa-martin.jpg) ##### Larissa Martin 50State - ![KellyKnowles](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/KellyKnowles.jpg?width=603&height=603&name=KellyKnowles.jpg) ##### Kelly Knowles HFA Political Advisor - ![Edward Hertzman](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Edward%20Hertzman.jpg?width=514&height=514&name=Edward%20Hertzman.jpg) ##### Edward Hertzman CEO & Founder, Athletech News 3. 2:45 pm - 3:45 pm #### Physical Inactivity, Pricing, and Public Policy – What Does the Data Tell Us? For millions worldwide, the cost of a gym membership can be a deciding factor in whether to engage in structured exercise. But what role can government policy play in expanding access? This session, based on new research from the Health & Fitness Association and Portas Consulting, examines the price elasticity of fitness memberships across 10 global markets—and how smart policy can unlock health, economic, and social benefits for communities worldwide.  - ![Anton Severin](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Anton%20Severin.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=Anton%20Severin.jpg) ##### Anton Severin VP, Research, HFA - ![DonalMcElwee](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/DonalMcElwee.jpg?width=558&height=558&name=DonalMcElwee.jpg) ##### Donal McElwee Managing Partner, Portas Consulting 4. 4:00 pm - 4:45 pm #### Advocacy & Professionalization Within the Exercise Profession Explore ways to elevate exercise professionals as essential healthcare providers. Key topics include advocacy, certification advancements, strategic industry collaborations, and practical issues like health technology and reimbursement. Attendees will learn about enhancing professional standards through certification and accreditation, the importance of advocacy and strategic partnerships, and practical strategies for integrating exercise services into healthcare settings, including new technology and financial models. This session is crucial for understanding the evolving role of exercise professionals and exploring opportunities for industry growth. - ![mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=mike-goscinski-headshot-2-1200x1200.jpg) ##### Mike Goscinski VP, Government Affairs, HFA - ![AmyBantham](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AmyBantham.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=AmyBantham.jpg) ##### Amy Bantham CEO/Founder, Move to Live More - ![MichaelStack](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/MichaelStack.jpg?width=80&height=80&name=MichaelStack.jpg) ##### Michael Stack CEO, Applied Fitness Solutions - ![GrahamMelstrand](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/GrahamMelstrand.jpg?width=641&height=641&name=GrahamMelstrand.jpg) ##### Graham Melstrand CEO & Founder, ActivSport, LLC MAR 13 1. 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm #### Global Advocacy Summit-Positioning the Fitness Industry as a Solution to the Global Physical Inactivity Crisis This inaugural event will cover the following: - The Economic Cost of Physical Inactivity - Private Sector Engagement in Global Health - WHO’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity - National Policy Innovations to Increase Physical Activity - The Role of the Olympics in Promoting Physical Activity Worldwide - Panel Discussion on Partnering for Global Impact 2. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm #### The State of the Fitness Consumer After a year of strong recovery and expansion, the 2024 U.S. Health & Fitness Consumer Report reveals that fitness facility memberships reached all-time highs and reflect notable year-over-year increases. Additionally, the total number of facility users grew by 9.7%, highlighting a renewed focus on health and wellness across the nation. Understanding these evolving consumer behaviors is essential for ongoing success in the industry. This session dives deep into the data around these trends and explanations around how to leverage them.  - ![Jon Weber](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Jon%20Weber.jpg?width=200&height=200&name=Jon%20Weber.jpg) ##### Jon Weber Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting - ![GeoffMcQueen](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/GeoffMcQueen.jpg?width=200&height=200&name=GeoffMcQueen.jpg) ##### Geoff McQueen Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting - ![AlexEvans](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/AlexEvans.jpg?width=200&height=200&name=AlexEvans.jpg) ##### Alex Evans Managing Director, L.E.K. Consulting MAR 14 1. 11:00 am - 12:00 pm #### Beats, Rights, and Insights: Navigating Music Licensing with Expert Perspectives A brief discussion and overview on the ins and outs of licensing within the US, followed by an open format for questions. - ![Gary Greenstein](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/Gary%20Greenstein.jpg?width=500&height=500&name=Gary%20Greenstein.jpg) ##### Gary Greenstein, Esq. Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati - ![bmi](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/bmi.jpg?width=276&height=276&name=bmi.jpg) ##### BMI [ View Full Schedule ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-schedule-2025) [ Register Today ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-pricing-2025) conference tracks ## unlock performance Get the most out of the conference by organizing your experience around any one of eight educational tracks. Each track features unique, informative sessions led by industry experts, designed to help your business thrive! ![Staff Management Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-1.png?width=400&height=212&name=abstract-bg-1.png) Staff management ### Build & Lead Your Team Discover strategies for effective recruitment, team development, inclusive practices, and performance management to foster a motivated and high-performing team. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-staff-management-track) ![Sales & Marketing Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-2.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-2.png) Sales & Marketing ### Connect with Consumers Learn to attract and retain clients, create compelling campaigns, and drive revenue with innovative strategies and proven techniques from club and studio owners, operators, and fitness professionals from around the world.  [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-sales-and-marketing-track) ![Research & Advocacy Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-1.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-1.png) Research & Advocacy ### Stay Ahead of the Curve Analyze HFA’s industry-leading research on global wellness, price elasticity, and consumer trends. Learn more about HFA's powerful advocacy work on the local, national, and global stages, and how you can get involved. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-research-advocacy-track-2025) ![Technology & Operations Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-2.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-2.png) Technology & Operations ### Optimize Your Operations Dive into tools and systems that enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and integrate technology to elevate your business performance. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-technology-and-operations-track) ![Programming Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-1.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-1.png) Programming ### Innovate Your Offerings Create impactful fitness programs that engage and inspire. Learn to design, implement, and refine programs that meet diverse client needs and keep your offerings fresh and effective. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-programming-track) ![Retention & Experience Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-2.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-2.png) Retention & Experience ### Maximize Client Loyalty & Satisfaction Discover techniques to enhance the client experience, increase retention rates, and build lasting relationships through customer delight. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-retention-and-experience-track) ![Leadership Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-1.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-1.png) Leadership & Career Growth ### Expand Your Horizons Unlock your potential with leadership insights and career development strategies. Gain skills to lead effectively, navigate career transitions, and drive personal and professional growth. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-leadership-and-career-growth-track) ![Studio Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-2.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-2.png) Studio ### Elevate Your Studio Discover the latest trends shaping the boutique fitness industry, from the expansion of large franchised brands to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by independent, single-location studios.  [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-studio-track) ![Industry Partner Background Image](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hs-fs/hubfs/abstract-bg-1.png?width=533&height=283&name=abstract-bg-1.png) Industry Partner ### Explore The Supplier Network Tune in to the research, equipment, and technology that is shaping the future of wellness. [ Learn more about this track ](https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show-industry-partner-track)