The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) has convened the 6th Annual IHRSA European Congress in The Hague and Amsterdam, the Netherlands, today.

The networking and educational event, aimed at health club owners, managers and investors, will focus on the growth of the European fitness industry and the issues it faces.

The conference was opened by Herman Rutgers, IHRSA’s director Europe. “It is my pleasure to welcome our more than 400 guests to my home country, The Netherlands,” he said.

“The Netherlands has the highest penetration of fitness membership in Europe, as well as some of the world’s most innovative facilities, so it seems appropriate for us to gather here to share ideas and experiences as we take our industry to the next level.”

Speakers include Dr Melvyn Hillsdon of the University of Bristol, UK; Dr Bhattacharya of Boston University, US; Kjell A. Nordström of Stockholm School of Economics, Sweden; and Wimbledon winner Richard Krajicek.

The congress runs until 1 September.