Golden Gala of Distinction
Thursday, July 17 • 6:30–10:00pm



Join us for an extraordinary evening of inspiration, achievement, and celebration against the stunning backdrop of the historic California state capitol! As we kick off IDEA World, we’ll honor the brightest stars in fitness while embracing the vibrant spirit of the Golden State.
This inclusive event celebrates the passion and dedication of fitness leaders who Inspire the World to Fitness®. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet new friends while connecting with your fitness family and celebrate excellence in our community!
What you can expect
- Red-carpet entrance near Sacramento’s iconic State Capitol
- Honoring the distinguished recipients of the IDEA Fitness Awards
- A luxurious farm-to-fork dining experience featuring Sacramento’s finest local cuisine
- Gold and California-themed attire encouraged, but all are welcome to dress as they feel comfortable
- An exciting night of dancing and networking with industry peers
This party is included with full registrations and Companion Passes only. Additional tickets my be purchased onsite.
Celebrate the Icons & Future Leaders of Fitness
IDEA Health & Fitness Association is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 IDEA® Industry Awards, as well as this year’s recipient of the IDEA® Jack & Elaine LaLanne Award. IDEA CEO and owner Amy Boone Thompson will acknowledge the finalists and winners during the Golden Gala of Distinction Celebration on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
These prestigious awards represent the highest levels of professional achievement in fitness and wellness, celebrating individuals who are setting new standards in leadership, instruction, coaching, and community impact.
IDEA Jack & Elaine LaLanne Award Recipient
Denise Austin
Denise Austin of Hermosa Beach CA, has helped transform lives as one of the world’s most successful and recognizable health professionals for 40 years. Known for her legendary content that brought fitness into the home through VHS, DVD and digital formats, which to date have sold over 25 million copies, Denise has also published 12 best-selling books and hosted her #1 exercise TV Show for 24 years every weekday morning.
IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year Finalists
Desiree Bartlett, PhD
Oahu, HI
Jessica Maurer
Winter Garden, FL
Erin Nitschke, PhD
Cheyenne, WY
IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year Finalists
Stephen Holt
Timonium, MD
Greg Johnson
Sacramento, CA
Brian Richey
Bethesda, MD
Rocky Snyder
Santa Cruz, CA
IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year Finalists
Yoav Avidar
Tel Aviv, Israel
Ellen de Werd
Eugene, OR
Melissa Layne, MEd
Dawsonville, GA