Industry body EuropeActive has published a sectoral manifesto which outlines the aims and objectives of the "entire ecosystem of the European fitness and physical activity sector" for the next five years.

Called Horizon 2025, the manifesto lays out the industry's collective priorities under four different categories – health, community, digital and standards.

Published today (30 September), during the European Health & Fitness Forum (EHFF), the stated industry goals, under the four headings are listed as follows:

HEALTH

Recognising our sector's historical roots in sport, leisure and recreation we believe that it isour societal responsibility in the coming years to be providers of physical activity which also

supports social and mental health and wellbeing, and in combatting the pandemic of physicalinactivity and other lifestyle diseases, for which science proves that fitness and exercise is an effective medicine.

DIGITAL

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown our entire sector ecosystem that digitalisation and fitness-tech is existentially important to reach out to fitness consumers of all backgrounds.

As a sector, we must hasten the process of digitalisation to better understand and improve service to our consumers and to expand our market beyond current perceived physical and social boundaries.

COMMUNITYAiming for a respected position in European society, we must continue to build confidence and trust with our communities. As active citizens, we will work to align our businesses and organisations with specific UN Sustainable Development Goals – including environmental protection and Co2 reductions – and to have an inclusive approach to all citizens and consumers.

STANDARDS

Becoming a mature sector in the eyes of the world around us requires professional identity and standards for our workforce and facilities.

Science and evidence-based standards for both our exercise professionals and places of business are prerequisites for creating attractive jobs and occupations and for gaining trust with our customers and developing collaboration with medical professionals and healthcare providers.

• The EHFF – a thought-leader conference organised by EuropeActive – is taking place today, ahead of the FIBO trade show, which is being held in virtual form from 1 to 3 October.