The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) is growing its global influence by building stronger partnerships with fitness federations around the world. This effort supports HFA’s mission to promote exercise as a key form of preventive medicine. Working closely with regional federations that represent health clubs and studios is essential to this goal.
In May, HFA signed formal agreements with two important federations: the Turkish Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (TVGFBF) and North Macedonia Active. Florian Cartoux, HFA’s Director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), said, “These new partnerships will strengthen HFA’s global network. They allow us to share best practices with policymakers and push for fitness and exercise to be recognized as vital parts of preventive health care.”
TVGFBF, established in 1991, oversees bodybuilding, physical fitness, and arm wrestling in Turkey. North Macedonia Active is a newer organization focused on improving fitness education and promoting wellness studios in North Macedonia. It also aims to upgrade facility infrastructure, revise sports laws, influence tax policies, and reduce the informal economy related to sports.
Cartoux traveled to both Turkey and North Macedonia to finalize these agreements. While in North Macedonia, he spoke at the Health & Fitness Forum in Skopje. There, he met with current partners such as the Serbian Recreation and Fitness Association and regional groups including the Bulgarian Association for Health and Fitness and SIGA from Greece.
The new partnerships with TVGFBF and North Macedonia Active will create fresh opportunities for fitness club owners, operators, and trainers in both countries. Members of these federations will receive discounts for HFA’s global events, such as the HFA European Congress (October 2-4 in Amsterdam) and The HFA Show 2026 (March 16-18 in San Diego). They will also benefit from knowledge exchange through research and shared policy and advocacy practices.
Koray Girgin, President of TVGFBF, said, “This agreement expands our federation’s vision and supports the growth of Turkey’s fitness industry. Working with a global group like HFA will raise our country’s profile and impact on the international fitness stage.”
Magdalena Spasovska, founder of North Macedonia Active, added, “Joining HFA is a major step for our fitness sector. This partnership offers strong opportunities for connection and transformation. By accessing global research, education, and innovation, we empower our trainers, owners, and leaders to improve. Together, we are building a more active and informed fitness culture in North Macedonia and making our country more visible worldwide.”
Cartoux concluded, “We believe our work with TVGFBF and North Macedonia Active will serve as a model for the region and encourage further collaboration. Sharing best practices is crucial as we work to have fitness and exercise recognized as essential preventive health care.”
