Over the past weekend, Sacramento took center stage as the 2025 IDEA World Fitness & Nutrition Expo convened at the Sacramento Convention Center. Marking the first time in its 43-year history the event was held in California’s capital, the three-day convention attracted thousands of fitness professionals—including personal trainers, nutritionists, gym managers, and wellness coaches—from over 80 countries.
Organized by the IDEA Health & Fitness Association, IDEA World is the industry’s premier annual gathering. Rooted in its mission to “Inspire the World to Fitness,” this year’s event emphasized the pillars of knowledge, community, and inspiration, offering over 175 educational sessions delivered by more than 80 renowned experts.
Attendees earned continuing education credits (CECs)—up to 21 in just three days—through workshops covering diverse tracks: personal training, group exercise, exercise science, behavior change, nutrition, mind‑body fitness, business development, and special populations such as active aging.
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Running July 18–19, the IDEA World Fitness & Nutrition Expo featured an expansive showcase of next-gen fitness equipment, wearable tech, recovery tools, supplements, and apparel. Over 300 exhibitors engaged attendees through live demos, product sampling, and business resources.
Major brands in attendance included Lifetime Fitness, WeGym, Keiser, Merrithew, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, and Perform Better. The expo was also open to the public free of charge, allowing community members to experience cutting-edge fitness trends firsthand.
A highlight of the convention was the Golden Gala of Distinction, held on the opening evening—Thursday, July 17. Fitness icon Elaine LaLanne, at age 99, honored celebrity trainer and author Denise Austin with the prestigious Jack & Elaine LaLanne Lifetime Achievement Award.
IDEA’s global finalists across various disciplines were also recognized during the gala, which included dinner, dancing, and presentations to celebrate extraordinary industry contributions.
Each morning commenced with energizing group workouts, ranging from high-intensity interval training to mind-body practices. These sessions—though not offering CECs—helped attendees start their days energized and connected.
Throughout the day, interactive workshops focused on practical skill development, including posture correction, bodyweight exercise programming, behavior change strategies, group fitness formats, and fitness entrepreneurship. Many sessions highlighted emerging trends in men’s health and wellness, resonating strongly with attendees focused on male-specific fitness programming.
Beyond the educational sessions, IDEA World fostered rich networking opportunities. Industry professionals mingled at expo booths, breakout sessions, and evening gatherings. The event facilitated connections between international participants, local Sacramento gym owners, and fitness tech innovators seeking partnerships and mentorship.
IDEA’s leadership cited Sacramento’s vibrant energy, affordable lodging, walkable downtown, and local charm as key reasons for choosing it as host city. The city’s selection reflects IDEA’s commitment to expanding access and reaching diverse fitness communities across the U.S.
With IDEA World now concluded, many attendees are en route to continue their professional development or return home with new certifications, business contacts, and motivation. The event served not only as a milestone in the fitness calendar, but as a hub for innovation—particularly in male-focused training and wellness programming.
While IDEA World typically rotates host cities (Los Angeles this year), Sacramento proved to be a compelling debut—setting a strong precedent for future events that connect global fitness leaders in engaging, accessible regional hubs.