IDEA Fitness Awards Reception
Wednesday, April 8th 6:30-8pm
Open to ticketed attendees only
Gaylord National Harbor Resort
Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, achievement, and celebration as we kick off IDEA World. The IDEA Fitness Awards Reception honors exceptional individuals whose passion, leadership, and dedication continue to elevate the global fitness community.
This special evening brings together industry professionals, mentors, and changemakers to recognize outstanding accomplishments, build meaningful connections, and celebrate the powerful impact of fitness on people’s lives.
Come celebrate with your fitness family, connect with peers from around the world, and help us recognize the remarkable individuals whose work strengthens and inspires our industry every day.
2026 IDEA Fitness Awards Finalists
2026 IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year
Ellen de Werd
Sara Keller
Ruben P Thickstun
The IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year Award honors a certified group fitness instructor who teaches a minimum of five classes per week and whose superior instructional and leadership skills are demonstrated through community and industry involvement, as well as the ability to inspire and motivate others to commit to a healthy lifestyle.
2026 IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year
Hal Hargrave
Jessica Maurer
Laura Yasinitsky
The IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year Award honors an individual whose outstanding contributions to the fitness industry serve staff, fitness professionals, students, clients and their community in inspiring ways and whose leadership and business skills better the overall success of our industry.
2026 IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year
Simone Gonzales
Stephen Holt
Brian Richey
The IDEA Personal Trainer of the Year Award honors a certified personal trainer who trains clients one-on-one at least 15 hours each week, and whose exceptional leadership, business management and instructional skills motivate and inspire clients to greater personal growth and a higher level of fitness.
2026 IDEA Jack & Elaine LaLanne Award Recipient
Judi Brown Clark, PhD
"Receiving the 2026 IDEA Jack & Elaine LaLanne Award is a profound honor for me personally and for the National Fitness Foundation. Jack and Elaine LaLanne were true pioneers who inspired generations to see physical activity as a pathway to health, vitality, and human potential. Their vision reminds us that fitness is far more than exercise—it is a powerful catalyst for stronger individuals, healthier communities, and a better quality of life for all. Through my work with the National Fitness Foundation, I remain deeply committed to expanding opportunities for physical activity, inspiring young people to embrace movement, and advancing health equity so that every person and every community has the chance to thrive."
-Judi Brown Clark, PhD
