// about network
2007 marks Australian Fitness Network's 20th anniversary, having launched the company two decades ago, in 1987. ‘Network’ as it is known in the industry today, was the first organisation in Australia to service the fitness industry.
Originally established by myself, Greg Hurst and Dr Garry Egger, the organisation was initially known as ‘Fitness Leader Network’ until it changed its name in 1990 to ‘Network for Fitness Professionals.’ The name then changed again in 1999 to become ‘Australian Fitness Network’ in a bid to reflect the expansion of the industry from consisting purely of fitness instructors, to encompass the involvement of facility owners/managers, gym instructors and personal trainers.
Network began with the release of aerobics music tapes. In 1987, it was the first aerobics music company to operate outside the USA. Today, Network continues to produce music under the TRAX Music label and is used by Group Fitness instructors around the world.
Around the same time, Network also launched the first national workshop tour, the National Aerobics Championship, a fitness convention and a membership publication for those in the fitness industry.
In 1988, Garry Egger left Network to pursue a career in public health and his absence was filled by two new partners, Suzee Miller and Lisa Champion. Over the years Suzee and Lisa assumed a less hand-on role in the company and in 2001, Greg Hurst also ceased his day-to-day responsibilities with Network, to assume the role of chief executive officer of Zest Health Clubs. Greg's current role sees him as the active Executive Director of the Australian Institute of Fitness in NSW.
The expansion of our publications, conventions and membership base over the years is a reflection of how hungry our industry is for continued education and constant opportunities for professional and personal growth. Our annual fitness convention – FILEX – sees more than 2,000 fitness professionals and enthusiasts come together for a three days of edu-tainment. Our publications have also expanded, from a single-page black and white newsletter to a library of eight full-colour publications servicing specific segments within the industry. The industry has seen many changes since it’s inception in the 1980s. Exercise fads have come and gone (the slide, kangoo boots), while some programs have successfully stood the test of time (step aerobics). The most recent global fitness trend is probably the popularity explosion of mind body practices, such as Pilates and yoga.
In this, our 20th year anniversary, Network is proud to remain the leading source of information, education and events in fitness, and we strive to continue to provide you with innovative, inspiring and valuable membership benefits to help you remain motivated, focused and challenged in your fitness career.
On behalf of the whole Network team, I thank you for being a part of the Australian Fitness Network family. We look forward to continuing to exceed your expectations in our delivery of information, education and events in fitness.
NIGEL CHAMPION
Executive Director
nigel.champion@fitnessnetwork.com.au
Ph: 02 8424 7212
