After years of welcoming the health and fitness community in person, ACSM will present the 2026 Health & Fitness Summit in an online, on-demand format.
This decision was made following thorough consultation with key stakeholders, including certified professionals, the ACSM Employer Advisory Board, regional chapter leaders, and ACSM leadership. The consistent message: multiple days away from clients and rising travel costs make it challenging to attend in-person.
By transitioning to an online format in 2026, ACSM is eliminating barriers while continuing to deliver the high-quality, science-based education and training our community expects.
Importantly, this is not the end of in-person Summits. ACSM remains committed to revisiting opportunities for face-to-face gatherings in future years, as we continue to adapt to the evolving needs of our members and the industry.
What to Expect in 2026
The new online format combines the flexibility of on-demand learning with opportunities for real-time engagement.
Schedule Overview (March 4–6, 2026)
- 2:00 p.m. ET: Live virtual session with Q&A (recorded and added to the on-demand library afterward)
- 3:30 p.m. ET: Live virtual workouts (time subject to adjustment)
Additional Features
- On-demand content: 20+ pre-recorded sessions released on day one, immediately following the first live virtual session.
- Live recordings available on-demand: Can’t make it at 2:00 p.m. ET? No problem. Each session will be added to the content library so you can watch at your convenience.
- Flexible participation: Engage in real time or learn on your schedule without the need to travel or commit full days away from work.
Why This Change Matters
By meeting professionals where they are, ACSM ensures that the Summit remains accessible, affordable, and impactful. This format gives attendees:
- Flexibility to learn at their own pace.
- Opportunities for live engagement without full-day commitments.
- Access to a broader range of sessions than ever before.
The 2026 Health & Fitness Summit will empower more health and fitness professionals to advance their knowledge, earn continuing education, and bring the latest science-backed practices directly to their clients.
