The HFA Show 2026:
A Sneak Peek

The conference and trade show, scheduled for March 16-18, is still coming together, but it’s already generating buzz.
It will be here before you know it. The HFA Show 2026, March 16-18 in San Diego, is taking shape with the first round of keynotes, sessions, and panelists signed. While there’s more to do before the final schedule is released, we’re bringing you a glimpse of what to expect in sunny Southern California in March.
With the show’s theme, Stronger Together, the convention and trade show promises a lot of networking and events that will bring people together to share information, contacts, and great vibes.
First, two of the most well-attended panels will be coming back:
• 29th Annual Financial Panel—A hallmark of the convention, this long-running event was created by the late Rick Caro, who hosted it for 28 years. This year, Discover Strength CEO and HFA Board Chair Luke Carlson will lead the panel of financial experts to explore the current economic climate for the health and fitness industry.
• Women’s Leadership Summit—A popular event that explores issues resonant to women, this discussion will cover how investment, science, and fitness are converging to shape a more inclusive and impactful future for women’s health and longevity.
While these panels are well-established, The HFA Show has launched a new annual must-attend event: the HFA Hall of Fame induction ceremony. This year’s event will take place at 7 p.m. on March 15 at the Omni San Diego Hotel, the day before the official start of The HFA Show 2026 at the San Diego Convention Center. (See a list of inductees.)
Seating is limited, so reserve your spot today. Every ticket supports the HFA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to promoting health through movement—so it’s not just a celebration, it’s a cause worth backing.
Keynote Speakers
At press time, two keynoters had been announced.

Panels and Sessions
While the schedule is still being assembled, here are a few panels, sessions, and speakers that have been announced.
Back to Basics: Strengthening the Sales Process for Gyms and Studios
This panel takes a back-to-basics approach to building a consistent, repeatable sales process that everyone in your organization can follow.
The Data-Driven Operator: Turning Metrics Into Momentum
This session breaks down how to interpret data that matters, eliminate vanity metrics, and make smarter, faster decisions that boost engagement, retention, and ROI.
Exercise Oncology: Evidence, Innovation, and Impact
This session examines the science behind exercise in cancer care and explores how workforce education, patient engagement, and strategic partnerships can help integrate exercise into the continuum of cancer survivorship.
From Reach to Resonance: The Future of Creator Marketing
Master the art of making diverse and resonant content that connects your brands to people on Meta’s platforms.
Where Biohacking, Functional Medicine, and Fitness Converge
This session explores how data-driven tools—ranging from biomarker testing and genetics to wearable insights—are enabling a more precise, prescriptive approach to fitness and longevity.
Integrating GLP-1s Into Sustainable Fitness Strategies
This panel brings together industry experts to explore how training and programming are being adapted to support users of these metabolic drugs.
Future-Proof Fitness: Engaging Gen Z and Gen Alpha With Purpose, Platforms, and Personalization
This workshop dives into the unique motivations, behaviors, and communication preferences of these digitally native generations.
Speakers
While the schedule is still being assembled, here are a few speakers that have been announced.

Chris Appiah, Founder & CEO, The Sales Arms

Lou Atkinson, Chief Science Officer, The Collective

Annie Batista, Executive Vice President, The Bay Club Company

Tracy Chadwell, Managing Founder, 1843 Capital

Kissa Fernandez, Creative Strategist, Meta

Ann Gilbert, Owner, Fit-Her Health & Fitness For Women

Hal Hargrave, President & CEO, The Perfect Step

Dr. Betul Sekendiz, Chairperson, Health & Fitness Industry Standards Council

Dr. Nicole Stout, Senior Director for Survivorship & Wellness, American Cancer Society

Jeff Zwiefel, Executive Director, Miora Longevity & Performance
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