After a successful debut last year, FIBO continues to focus on consistency and strong partnerships in 2026: KSM-66 Ashwagandha will remain the title sponsor of the world’s leading trade show for health, fitness, and wellness. This renewed collaboration underscores the shared mission to highlight holistic health and scientifically-backed nutritional solutions.

Silke Frank, event director of FIBO, states: “We are thrilled to have KSM-66 Ashwagandha by our side as the title sponsor again in 2026. The continuation of this partnership demonstrates the importance of having strong and reliable partners. Together, we are sending a clear message about the significance of nutrition for a healthy and high-performing life. We look forward to another successful collaboration with great anticipation.”

Kartikeya Baldwa, founder & CEO of KSM-66 Ashwagandha, adds: “Returning as title sponsor of FIBO in 2026 feels very natural to us. Being at FIBO in 2025 reinforced something we already knew: the European fitness and wellness community wants ingredients that are proven, not just popular. KSM-66 Ashwagandha is trusted by millions of people worldwide and is used by over 4,500 brands across 62 countries. As the world’s largest natural ingredient brand, we take that trust very seriously. We are also proud to be the brand of choice for athletes such as Robert Lewandowski, Phil Heath, and Hany Rambod, which reflects the performance and recovery standards our community expects. FIBO, here in the heart of Europe, is exactly where we want to be.”

The partnership will once again be highlighted by a strong presence of KSM-66 Ashwagandha at the trade show. With a booth in Hall 10.2, the company will showcase its latest innovations and products, including condition-specific formulations for stress resilience, sleep quality, and cognitive performance, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the benefits of Ashwagandha for physical, mental, and cognitive well-being.

FIBO 2026 takes place from April 16 to 19, 2026, in Cologne, once again showcasing what health means today.

From April 16 to 19, 2026, Cologne will once again be the centre of the international health, fitness, and wellness world: FIBO is calling, and with it comes a festival of movement, enthusiasm, and innovation. Here, sport meets lifestyle, science meets entertainment, and inspiration meets real passion.

Silke Frank, Event Director of FIBO: "FIBO 2026 will be an unparalleled experience that inspires and moves the entire industry. With new theme worlds, interactive experiences, and an expanded education programme, we create a platform that unites innovation, knowledge, and passion. Our goal is to make health, fitness, and prevention accessible to everyone – and to actively shape the future of the industry. FIBO is more than a trade show—it's a festival of possibilities that connects people and creates lasting moments."

Knowledge that gets you moving – the Education programme

While the halls are filled with movement and excitement, the FIBO Education programme provides knowledge and inspiration on an international level.

After its successful debut, FIBO's Longevity in Hospitality Summit returns in 2026, focusing on the topics of sleep, nutrition, exercise, and well-being, including mental health. With the international summit, FIBO recognises the rapid growth of the longevity market and the opportunity for the hotel sector to profit from this demand – to improve the guest experience and increase commercial profits.

More information about FIBO 2026 is available at - FIBO.com

A strong signal: from 10 to 13 April 2025 FIBO in Cologne demonstrated just how powerful, innovative and future-ready the health and fitness industry is – and how significant it is for society and economy. Boasting over 1,200 exhibitors and partners as well as 154,748 visitors from 129 countries FIBO celebrated new records for its 40th anniversary.

“The strategic repositioning of FIBO was a tremendous success. Over the four days we have set new standards with this trade show inspiring healthy and active living,” says Silke Frank, Event Director of FIBO.

A Booming Multi-Billion Market
Current figures speak for themselves: the fitness and health sector is booming. According to DSSV and Deloitte, the sector registered an increase to 11.71 million health club members in Germany alone, posting total sales worth EUR 5.82 billion. Across Europe membership rose to 71.6 million and a market volume of EUR 36 billion. This makes it perfectly clear: the fitness industry is a relevant economic factor and a central lever for social health.

This power also became visible at the trade show: “FIBO has become an indispensable business platform that impressively visualises the enormous dynamism and innovative power of international health and fitness markets. I am firmly convinced that FIBO will also play a pivotal role in future for decisively driving the growth and further development of these forward-looking sectors,” says Michael Köhler, Managing Director at RX Deutschland, the organiser of FIBO.

The driving force behind this growth, as Prof. Dr Thomas Wessinghage, Chairman of DSSV, explains, is: “Health awareness among the population is growing, people have understood that fitness makes you healthy. Especially for younger people fitness forms an integral part of life and we achieve an almost one-third market penetration among people up to the age of 30.”

Bridging Fitness and Politics
“I am particularly happy to note that FIBO also serves as a point of contact for international policy-makers, who actively use this trade show to address key future topics,” remarks Silke Frank, Event Director at FIBO. The trade show was opened by amongst others Antoaneta Angelova-Krasteva, Director for Innovation, Digital Education and International Cooperation at the European Commission: “At FIBO sports meet with the latest technology trends and innovations. Here, operators, political decision-makers and the industry get together to network, learn from each other and swop different perspectives.”

Angelova-Krasteva also emphasised the industry’s enormous relevance for people’s health but also for business: “Under the current European Commission sports have increased even further in importance. In addition, sports play a decisive role in promoting the competitiveness of the European Union, by boosting economic growth, creating jobs and driving innovation through digital technologies.”

Business, Trends & Innovations: FIBO as the marketplace of the industry
FIBO 2025 impressively reflected this growth. Larger exhibition areas, international brands and a markedly extended offering made the trade show a genuine marketplace for the industry.

“For both club operators and end users FIBO is a fantastic opportunity to experience the world of fitness with all its facets hands on – from exercise to business. We welcomed many visitors from the club sector, hospitality but also from the home-fitness segment – so both B2B and B2C target groups,” says Andrej Murnik, Managing Director Technogym Germany.

Calzedonia celebrated a debut at the trade show. Verdict: “We are super happy with the trade show. We would not have expected such large crowds. People are not only keen on challenges and getting to know the brand, but they actually also spend money. Our feedback is super positive,” delights Elena Göcke, Head of Communication Calzedonia Group Germany.

Digital offerings and Artificial Intelligence revolutionise the fitness and health ranges and drive personalisation, efficiency and innovation. Be it smart strength training equipment, AI-controlled personal health tools or personalised nutrition concepts – here the trends were set and business deals concluded right on site. Companies such as Technogym, EGYM and Milon, DRAX or Life Fitness demonstrated impressively how digitalisation, AI and personalisation are shaping the future of health.

According to Bernhard-Stefan Müller, CEO of milon industries GmbH, there is growing focus on such concepts as instructor-less gyms or operations with reduced staff deployment. To be able to efficiently run these, he says, digital solutions are needed – especially data-based exercise.

Longevity as a Growth Driver
Longevity was a standout theme at FIBO 2025, deeply integrated into the offerings and encapsulated in the new Hall 1. The focus ranged from Longevity Suites in hotels to Pilates workouts and cryotherapy. Industry leaders, including tourism and hospitality figures, explored the commercial potential of longevity.

To Nina Ruge, longevity expert and CEO of staYoung Media GmbH, this is an exciting trend: “This gives FIBO another, medically based image, which can also be integrated in people’s lives. While health and wellness always were an important topic, it is new and exciting to now extend this to include really healthy longevity with its medical basis.”

Alongside the high-calibre ranges on offer and the Talks at the Meeting Point Spa & Wellness, the Longevity & Hospitality Summit on Day 1 proved especially compelling with its keynotes and networking opportunities on C-Level. The sponsor of this Summit and exhibitor in Hall 1, Landsberg First Class Aesthetic, draws a positive conclusion after its FIBO debut: “We have lived and breathed the longevity theme for many years now. So we are of course happy to note that others are now also honing in on this topic and look back at positive experiences with existing, potential customers and interested parties,” sums up Martin Kunath, CMO at Landsberg First Class Aesthetic.

Community, Challenges & Champions Inspire
Beyond being a trade fair, FIBO is the heartbeat of a passionate community. Over 500 influencers, creators, and 12,000 athletes turned the exhibition halls into an electrifying hub of global fitness enthusiasts.

The energy was palpable across various events and challenges, from HYROX races and ESN, More Nutrition & Oace, to live streams by stars like Knossi and Montana Black. The return of the FIBO Championships, with an epic finale at Tanzbrunnen, drew significant excitement. Fans also queued for meet-and-greet sessions with legends like Jay Cutler and Derek Lunsford, finding inspiration in personal interactions.

“Especially in sports we have a great responsibility for the next generation. Every a short encounter with a child can change a life. If we all shared this understanding in the world, we would also welcome more people to gyms, clubs and among active sports enthusiasts,” said Patrick Esume, Commissioner ELF, NFL expert and TV presenter during the FIBO opening.

Fitness Is the Future
FIBO 2025 powerfully illustrated the interconnectedness of health, economy, and societal progress. Positioned as a central platform, FIBO actively supports and shapes these advancements.

Mark your calendars for the next FIBO, taking place in Cologne from 16th to 19th April 2026.

Artificial intelligence, smart technologies and advancing digitalisation are revolutionising health and fitness: wearables, apps and virtual platforms enable personalised, flexible training programmes with precise feedback - individually tailored and available at any time. What influence do these developments have and what opportunities do they present for the industry and fitness enthusiasts? FIBO 2025 is dedicating a separate hall to precisely these topics: the Confex Hall.

“With the Confex Hall, we are creating a new platform in an ultra-modern setting that puts innovation, technology and the future of the fitness and health industry centre stage. With the combination of Expo and Education Areas, the Confex Hall is aimed equally at professionals and, at the weekend, at our tech-enthusiastic private visitors“, describes Silke Frank, Event Director FIBO, the concept of the new hall.

Future Forum: Experience the future of the fitness market

The Future Forum offers pioneering insights into the future of fitness, health and technology. Previously known from Hall 7, the Future Forum moves to the heart of the Confex Hall and becomes the central attraction for visionary professionals and investors. On Thursday and Friday, the programme offers exciting sessions, panels and pitches from industry leaders such as Bryan O'Rourke, Karl Foster, Daniel Jones and many more. Topics such as digital revenue streams, increasing efficiency through automation, AI-driven coaching and fitness for a long, healthy life will take centre stage. FIBO is working with strong partners such as Europe Active, BSA and M&L Partners as well as EGYM, Core Health, Gymnation, Urban Sports Club, Technogym, Myzone and others.

Sport Alliance CEO Gregor Bieler will provide insights on the topic of ‘Developing New Revenue Streams with Digital Solutions’ before Les Mills Country Manager, Jens Schultze, Funxtion CEO Ernst De Neef and Enhance CEO Tarek Mounir delve deeper into the topic in a panel discussion.

On Friday, experts will discuss how generative AI and intelligent coaching agents are revolutionising personalised training and health solutions. The panel ‘Active Lifespan - Training the Longevity Athlete’ will focus on the role of fitness for a longer, more productive life. The session ‘Mind and Brain - Working Out the Emotional Fitness’ will highlight the importance of cognitive fitness, mental health and emotional strength. Finally, the Fitness Industry Technology Council will summarise key findings and provide an outlook on future developments in the industry.

Premiere: Future Forum opens its doors to end consumers

For the first time in the history of the Future Forum, Saturday and Sunday will offer an exciting programme for private visitors. Innovative formats from the BSA Akademie such as mixed reality training, technologies for an active lifestyle and AI-based fitness solutions promise new motivational impulses and exciting insights into the future of sport and health.

In addition, visitors to FIBO can also shape their own personal future. Companies such as All Inclusive Fitness, PRIME TIME Fitness, RSG Group GmbH with Golds Gym, McFit and JOHN REED as well as Wellyou Fitness will be presenting their companies and nationwide career opportunities.

Tech Valley finds new home

The ‘Tech Valley’, also known from Hall 7, now offers visionary providers of hardware and software solutions a prominent stage in the Confex Hall to present their innovations. Companies such as Lexicon Software, CloudFit Pty Ltd and Fit Alliance will be showcasing pioneering technologies for the optimisation of fitness equipment and applications.

A place for ground-breaking innovation and industry gathering
The Confex Hall unites the health and fitness industry with the latest developments in technology and AI and offers a platform where manufacturers, providers and customers can benefit in equal measure.

On this stage of possibilities, the future is not only imagined, but experienced first-hand. The Confex Hall is located in the south of Koelnmesse and offers visitors their own entrance. On Thursday and Friday, FIBO offers visitors travelling by car shuttle buses from P22 directly to the Confex entrance.

The RX Female Award is returning to FIBO, once again shining a spotlight on outstanding women in the fitness, wellness, and health industries. The award recognises and celebrates their remarkable achievements. As part of the Ladies Lunch at FIBO 2025, the ceremony will honour talents in the categories of “Youngster” and “Role Model”, further highlighting the diversity and strength of the sector.

Tina Müller takes on patronage

The patronage of the upcoming award edition will be taken up by Tina Müller, one of the most well-known executives in the German-speaking world. With 25 years of experience in the beauty industry, she has been leading Weleda AG, the global market leader in certified natural cosmetics and anthroposophic medicines, since October 2023.

“Diversity: Now more than ever! Because of all the crises in our country, people forget what is so important to me: commitment to diversity in business, society and politics - that's why I support initiatives like the RX Female Award,” explains Tina Müller, co-founder of the Merton Circle, keynote speaker on female empowerment, and investor in female founders.

Categories & prestigious jury

The RX Female Award powered by FIBO will be presented in two categories:

Role Model – Recognises women who inspire through their commitment and leadership within the industry.

Youngster – Acknowledges emerging talents with exceptional potential.

A distinguished jury, comprising leading industry experts such as Herman Rutgers, Ambassador of EuropeActive, Maike Kumstel, Head of Global Enterprise at Sport Alliance, Jennifer Halsall, Founder and CEO of Duende Solutions and Co-Founder and CCO of The Collective, Janosch Marx, CEO of fitness MANAGEMENT, Liz Terry, CEO of Leisure Media and Editor of HCM Magazine, and Emma Barry, Chief of Trouble at Trouble Global, will select the winners.

“With such a highly qualified jury, we ensure that the outstanding contributions and achievements of the incredible women in our industry are duly recognised,” says Silke Frank, Event Director of FIBO.

Nominate now

Do you know an inspiring woman, a pioneer in the fitness, wellness, or health industry – or are you one yourself? Take this opportunity and submit your application by 28th March 2025 via the nomination form on the FIBO website.

Click here to make your nomination

Join us on 11th April 2025 at 12 pm during the Ladies Lunch in the Confex at FIBO in Cologne when the winners will be announced.