The Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) has launched its first award scheme, the Lifetime Achievement Awards, to celebrate exemplary conduct, dedication and efficiency among fitness professionals.

The first 10 outstanding achievers to be inaugurated into the REPs’ hall of fame will be announced at Leisure Industry Week (LIW) in Birmingham in September this year.

Nominated candidates must have been working within the fitness sector for at least 10 years and during that time built a reputation for excellence as well as making a significant contribution to the industry.

In addition, they will also have made a positive difference to their clients’ and customers’ levels of fitness and quality of life as well as being able to demonstrate a commitment to raising standards within the sector.

Nominations will be assessed by a panel of key figures from within the fitness industry and the final 10 candidates will be presented with a commemorative plaque and certificate at a gala lunch.

REPs registrar, Cliff Collins, said he hopes the awards will come to be recognised as a gold standard among fitness professionals.

“There are many hundreds of fitness professionals out there who are totally dedicated to the work they do and who carry out their responsibilities with untiring enthusiasm and care,” he said.

“Through their work they strive to make a difference not only to their clients but also to the industry as a whole and it is these individuals that we want to acknowledge through the Lifetime Achievement Awards.

“It is not a competition but a clear way to recognise those exercise professionals who have made a significant contribution to the fitness industry.”

To nominate someone for the REPs Lifetime Achievement Awards send a supporting statement of no more than 250 words including the name, age, and employment details of your nominee to: The Register of Exercise Professionals, Charter House, 29A London Road, Croydon, CR0 2RE. The closing date is 30 July 2004.