The annual conference and trade show recognized fitness professionals, educators, presenters, volunteers and industry partners following two days of programming in Toronto.
By FitBizWeekly Staff
canfitpro GLOBAL 2026 wrapped up August 14–15 in Toronto, bringing together more than 6,000 attendees, 180+ speakers and 150+ sessions across education, business, training, wellness and the trade show floor.
Following the event, canfitpro announced its 2026 industry award recipients, recognizing individuals and organizations for contributions spanning education, community leadership, fitness instruction, professional development, volunteering and industry innovation.
Steve Block Vendor of the Year: WellnessSpace Brands
WellnessSpace Brands received the 2026 Steve Block Vendor of the Year Award, presented to Eric Jaworsky, the company’s vice president of sales.
The company has developed wellness and recovery products since 1989, including HydroMassage Beds and Lounges, CryoLounge+ Chairs and RedZone Saunas. canfitpro cited the company’s long-term commitment to innovation, education and the evolving role of recovery and wellness within fitness facilities.
The award, established in memory of fitness industry leader and SPRI co-founder Steve Block, recognizes a vendor for sustained contributions to equipment, training, education and innovation.
Sharon Mann Inspiration Award: Kelsey Vickers
Kelsey Vickers, co-founder of Fit+Fierce, received the Sharon Mann Inspiration Award for her work supporting confidence and well-being among girls in Grades 4 through 12.
Founded in 2011, Fit+Fierce combines fitness, nutrition, mental health education and mentorship, and has expanded from a grassroots initiative into a growing national program. The organization is also developing a network of certified coaches to deliver its programming in communities across Canada.
The Sharon Mann Inspiration Award recognizes a woman who demonstrates courage, growth, influence, inspiration and community impact.
Delegates’ Choice Presenter of the Year Awards
Three presenters were recognized through canfitpro’s 2026 Delegates’ Choice awards.
International Presenter of the Year: Luciano Mottola
Mottola has presented in approximately 50 countries and is known for education across Aerodance, step choreography, functional training, mobility and posture correction.
Founder of The DNA Company, Khan was recognized for his work in functional genomics, personalized health and preventive wellness, including making genetic science more accessible to health and fitness professionals.
Online Presenter of the Year: Tanya Thompson
Thompson, founder and CEO of Of-CourseOnline.com and Pilates Unlimited – The Art of Movement, was recognized for her online continuing education work supporting healthcare and exercise professionals internationally.
Fitness Professional of the Year Awards
canfitpro also recognized two professionals for leadership in group fitness and personal training.
Fitness Instructor Specialist of the Year: Adenike Charles
Charles, founder of Just2Sweat, was recognized for her work in fitness education, inclusive coaching and community wellness. Her activities span corporate wellness, group fitness, sports team workshops, student mentoring and customized programming.
Personal Trainer Specialist of the Year: Simon Paige
Paige received his fourth consecutive year of recognition from canfitpro. He was cited for combining technical training knowledge with individualized coaching, continuing education and an ability to adapt programming to a wide range of client needs.
PRO TRAINER Awards
Five educators were recognized through the annual PRO TRAINER Awards, which acknowledge contributions to fitness education and certification.
Business Impact: Nicky Coyne
Coyne has more than 34 years of experience in wellness and fitness education. Since August 2025, she and her team have supported the education and professional development of more than 600 canfitpro members.
Top Earner: Dr. David Robertson
Robertson, a chiropractor and longtime PRO TRAINER, has educated thousands of fitness professionals and is known for integrating fitness, rehabilitation, injury prevention and corrective exercise.
Participants’ Choice: Simon Paige
Paige received the award for the second consecutive year, adding to previous canfitpro recognition including Social Media Superhero in 2024 and Rookie of the Year in 2023.
Rookie of the Year: Franco Petrella
Petrella brought nearly 30 years of experience in education into his first year as a PRO TRAINER and has already contributed to the addition of three agencies to the canfitpro network.
Social Media Superhero: Jodie Boettger
Boettger was recognized for using social media to provide practical industry knowledge, mentorship and career guidance to fitness professionals.
Volunteer of the Year: Ria Rose Liu
Ria Rose Liu received canfitpro’s 2026 Volunteer of the Year Award. A canfitpro volunteer since 2009, Liu serves as a Room Monitor Team Leader and was recognized for her organization, dependability and contribution to the conference experience.
Outside of canfitpro, Liu is also involved in initiatives supporting children with autism and their families, including efforts to create more opportunities for physical activity, sport and community participation.
The 2026 awards reflected the breadth of the fitness industry represented at canfitpro GLOBAL, from front-line instructors and educators to suppliers, volunteers and community advocates.
Images: canfitpro
