Last weekend saw 700 fitness enthusiasts and world-class health professionals from around the world gather at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Pattaya for the Asia Fitness Convention 2012.
Organised by the Tourism and Sports Ministry and Sport Authority of Thailand, and officially opened by Deputy Mayor Wattana Chantanawaranon, the three-day event from Oct. 19-21 saw attendees work with more than 40 international professionals from the health & fitness industry, including celebrity podiatrist Dr. Emily Splichal, who spoke on “barefoot power;” Lawrence Biscontini, a consultant for the American Council on Exercise, who spoke on group exercise; and conditioning firm owner Peter Twist, who provided advice on muscle strengthening.
Deputy Mayor Wattana Janthaowranont, opens the Asia Fitness Convention 2012 at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Pattaya, Friday, Oct. 19.
Other notable speakers at the conference included Douglas Brooks and Helen Vanderburg of fitness products retailer BOSU Training.
The Deputy Mayor commented: “The Asia Fitness Convention is an event that is establishing Thailand as a leading beacon in developing the fitness industry in the Asia-Pacific region, and we are extremely proud that this event is taking place in Thailand again for the fourth consecutive year.
“In promoting good health practices among adolescents and ensuring that they are aware of what the health risks are, holding fitness forums such as this is one of the best ways to educate people in the benefits of keeping fit and leading a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
After the opening ceremony, Stephane Vigroux, a founder in gym operator Parkour Generations, demonstrated the spectacular discipline of parkour “free running,” to kick off its expansion in Asia.
Another highlight of the event was a “fitness idol” contest, whose winner will speak at next year’s convention and appear on a “So You Think You are Fit?” video. Guests could also purchase gym memberships, health products and clothing.
The sport of parkour was introduced by Stephane Vigroux.
Health conscious attendees joined in one of the fitness demonstrations.
