The Women in Fitness Association (WIFA) has launched its UK council today (8 March 2019, International Women's Day), a not-for-profit organisation that aims to unite women in the fitness industry by offering support, resources and mentorship programmes, whilst also addressing specific issues women face in the industry.

Established in the US by industry veteran Lindsey Rainwater, WIFA gives its members access to a global network that offers a wealth of knowledge, experience and contacts, as well as live events, quarterly virtual meetings, meetings aligned to major industry events, exposure on the WIFA website and a host of speaking, presenting and blogging opportunities.

Emma Barry, WIFA board member and mentor for international, said: "Our vision is that every woman working in the sector can find her place and rise to her fullest potential. We want to see more women in the boardroom and at the top level of fitness organisations, championing each other to share success through collaboration."

Elena Lapetra, global WIFA ambassador for the UK, said: "Some extraordinary women from our sector have already stepped forward to join as council members and we look forward to working together for all women working in our sector, so that our industry can reflect better the society we all love to serve."

A number of notable women from the UK fitness industry have already signed up to be part of the WIFA UK council including Sue Anstiss MBE, CEO of Promote PR; Jenny Patrickson, MD of Active IG; Gemma Bonnett-Kolakowska, global marketing director at Myzone; Lou Atkinson, lead master trainer Core H&F and Laura Higgins, founder of Lifted Fitness.