175,173 visitors from 136 countries – health trends, AI, and new forms of training are driving change in the industry

Cologne, April 19, 2026 – Amid connected training spaces, biohacking tools, and vibrant community areas, FIBO 2026 demonstrated one thing: this industry is one of the most dynamic growth drivers in the global health sector. For four days, Cologne became the epicenter of a movement dedicated to advancing health.

The trade show attracted 175,173 visitors from 136 countries, featuring over 1,000 exhibitors and partners from 54 countries, thereby underscoring its undiminished appeal and global relevance. Gyms have long been meeting places for a health-conscious society and the stage for an industry that is currently taking its next big step.

Alongside the long-standing successes of strength training and cardio equipment, new forms of training are emerging, and with them, new target groups. This is because the fitness world is becoming broader, more technological, and more socially relevant.

“FIBO 2026 has impressively demonstrated that the fitness industry is evolving into a cornerstone of the health sector,” says Michael Köhler, Managing Director of FIBO organizer RX Deutschland. “The trade show offers a holistic view of fitness, health, and nutrition, interconnected through digital innovations and AI. The innovative strength of the companies and the enormous international interest underscore the growing social significance of fitness and prevention.”

Silke Frank, Event Director of FIBO, adds: “FIBO is not just a meeting place for the industry, it is its compass. Anyone who wants to understand where the global fitness market is heading will find the answers here. The interest from exhibitors and visitors from all over the world shows: What happens here sets standards far beyond the exhibition halls.”

At the same time, new competition and training formats such as Hyrox are establishing themselves, combining endurance and strength to appeal to a new, performance-oriented target group. Fitness is thus becoming not only more effective, but also more experience-oriented and social.

New Target Groups: Fitness Becomes a Lifelong Companion

Programs for older adults are needed now more than ever, and the industry is responding with modern concepts for strength and mobility. Fitness icon and former bodybuilder Ralf Moeller said at the FIBO press conference: “If a 60-, 70-, or 80-year-old decides today to start fitness training, it’s worth it.” This focus on healthy aging actively ensures quality of life and vitality well into old age. And fitness studios are developing programs specifically designed to improve mobility, strength, and quality of life in older adults.

The topic of healthy aging was omnipresent and made tangible: from interactive offerings and new products to easily accessible tips on topics such as sleeping better, reducing stress, or staying fit in the long term. Longevity was thus not presented as an abstract concept, but as something that everyone can directly integrate into their own daily lives.

At the same time, specialization is on the rise: personalized training programs, women-only areas, and boutique studios cater to diverse needs. Fitness is thus becoming less of a standardized mass offer and more of a personalized component of modern lifestyles.

Industry decision-makers gathered at the CEO Breakfast

A special highlight at the start of the trade show: At the exclusive CEO Breakfast, around 70 executives from numerous fitness companies in the German-speaking region gathered to get in the mood for FIBO and discuss key future topics for the industry.

“If we in the fitness industry want to grow together, we must also act together, and this event at FIBO offers the perfect platform for that,” says Prof. Dr. Thomas Wessinghage, President of DSSV e. V. and Vice Rector of DHfPG, highlighting the importance of such events.

“For years, we’ve fostered an intensive and valuable exchange among gym operators in the Think Tank. With the CEO Breakfast, we’ve now taken this dialogue to a new level,” said Alexander Pfitzenmeier, Managing Director of the IFAA.

Women’s Leadership Summit and RX-Female Award

The Women’s Leadership Summit at FIBO 2026 brought together leading women from the fitness, health, and business sectors in a dedicated format. As a full-day leadership event, the summit offered a mix of keynotes, workshops, and targeted networking opportunities—from guided tours and the FIBO Ladies Lunch to the presentation of the RX Female Award. The goal was to connect female entrepreneurs, decision-makers, and founders, share perspectives, and provide concrete impetus for the future of the industry. The focus was on topics such as leadership in times of change, innovation, and building strong networks that enable sustainable development.

Health is the future: FIBO 2026 wraps up with strong results

© RX Deutschland GmbH / FIBO / Jannik Hammes Fotografie

“When you look at current events in our world, it becomes clear how important it is for women’s voices to be heard more and for more women to sit on decision-making bodies, because we need to change the world. We need to change leadership structures,” emphasized Jennifer Halsal, founder and advisor at The Collective Network.

During the FIBO Ladies Lunch, Sabrina Albert and Amina Kurbanova were honored with the RX Female Award 2026. Two female entrepreneurs who are setting new standards in the fitness industry with their innovative spirit and leadership.

Judith Williams, who presented the award, was visibly moved: “I am delighted for you both from the bottom of my heart about this tremendous success. One can only imagine how much discipline and dedication you both put into working toward this moment.” For the fourth time, the award honors women who are courageously rethinking fitness and leadership.

Visitor Experiences: Fitness as Community and Lifestyle

For visitors, FIBO 2026 was far more than a traditional product show; it became an immersive festival centered on fitness, health, and longevity. At the same time, the focus was on participation. Instead of just watching, visitors could actively experience the trade show: In the Calisthenics Area, the Lifestyle Area, or the new Battle & Drop Zone, people trained, tried things out, and worked up a sweat together, often side by side with well-known creators. The boundaries between stage and audience were increasingly blurred.

The Experience Areas in particular brought this approach to life. Whether in Pilates, Flow, or Afroletics sessions, it wasn’t just about movement, but about motivation, community, and the feeling of being part of something bigger. Many activities were designed to be accessible, inviting even beginners to try something new.

FIBO 2026 thus clearly demonstrated: Fitness today is a lifestyle that goes far beyond traditional training—toward greater well-being, energy in everyday life, and true quality of life.

Politics Meets Fitness: A Strong Presence at the Highest Level

FIBO has long been a fixed date on the calendars of political decision-makers. This year, a remarkable political presence underscored the fair’s relevance to society as a whole: an official delegation from the U.S. Consulate was on site, representatives of the European Parliament were present, and Cologne’s Mayor Torsten Burmester also praised the world’s leading trade fair as an economic and social engine for the region.

“Our goal is to bring the dynamism of the fitness industry and the special vibe of FIBO even more strongly into the city of Cologne in the future, thereby helping to further strengthen Cologne’s image as an active, exercise-oriented metropolis,” says Michael Köhler, Managing Director of RX Germany.

Comments from exhibitors and partners:

“It is an honor for us to be here as the title sponsor for the second time. “For me, FIBO is one of the best trade shows in the world for health, fitness, and wellness—not only in terms of visitor numbers, but above all because the quality of the visitors is exceptional. Anyone who takes their health seriously and has the opportunity to come here should be here.” Kartikeya Baldwa, Founder & CEO of KSM-66 Ashwagandha

“Anyone who takes longevity seriously needs to be at FIBO.” Jo De Cock, Founder, The Ice Cube

“For me, FIBO is the platform where I can finally share the work of the past few years with the world.” Sammy Gharieni, Founder of Metawell – Gharieni Group

“FIBO has always been more than just a trade show—it has the feel of a festival. And it has evolved into the world’s leading gathering for the fitness, wellness, and longevity industries.” Andreas Blum, Sales Director APAC & UK, Art of Cryo

“There are many trends that are increasingly linked to strength training, and we see that here. Topics like digitalization and recovery are playing an ever-greater role in strength training.” Eckbert Ganns, Managing Director of Life Fitness

“Everything is interconnected—equipment, apps, training plans, data. Over 6,200 registered visitors and just as many walk-ins experienced this firsthand at our booth. I’ve been at FIBO for 26 years—and this was the best one yet.” – Jan Scherzer, VP Sales DACH, EGYM.

“What excites me about FIBO: Fitness is no longer just a man’s game here. Women are increasingly taking control of their health and well-being—and that’s a long-overdue signal.” Dafne Berlanga, SVP Global Business Development & Sales, Wellness USA

“FIBO is an extremely strategic platform for Pilates providers. It allows us to connect not only with end-users focused on performance, rehabilitation, and health, but also with key decision-makers who shape the industry. Through these connections, we can expand our global reach and make our products more accessible worldwide.” Aleyna Erdem Iserli, International Master Trainer & Head of Education – Bendis Pilates

“Pilates is one of the biggest trends in the fitness world—and for good reason: The method directly addresses what science is increasingly proving about the female body. It combines knowledge and techniques that specifically support women—from body balance and flexibility to strength.” Emma Stallworthy, Founder - Your Reformer

“What moves me every year: FIBO creates something that goes far beyond a trade show—it brings the same people together year after year, fostering a genuine community.” Malte Krüpfganz, Head of Marketing, Naskorsports

About FIBO

FIBO pursues the vision of a strong and healthy society and, as a global network, makes an essential contribution to helping people lead long and fulfilling lives. The annual FIBO Show therefore brings together all key players from the fitness, wellness, and health sectors, serving as the hub for innovations, investments, and trends in active living. Over four days, FIBO offers not only top-tier business, networking, and professional development but also numerous exciting and impressive live experiences. The next FIBO will take place in Cologne from April 8 - 11, 2027. fibo.com

About RX

RX is a leading global provider of trade shows and events. By strategically combining industry expertise, data, and cutting-edge technology, RX drives business growth for individuals, communities, and organizations. With a presence in 25 countries and across more than 41 industry sectors, RX hosts approximately 350 events annually.

RX is passionately committed to fostering an inclusive work environment for all employees. By leveraging data-driven insights and digital solutions, the company empowers businesses to achieve sustainable success. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision-making tools for professional and business customers.

For more information, visit www.rxglobal.com.

Press Contact FIBO

Leonie Ophey

Product Marketing Manager

Leonie.Ophey@rxglobal.com