In 1994, the IFPA began teaching in major universities, fitness facilities, and conference centers throughout the US and internationally. The IFPA continued to grow as the International Federation of Body Builders (I.F.B.B.), National Physique Committee (N.P.C.), numerous ESPN fitness stars, and Olympic and world champion athletes used the IFPA certification courses to advance their fitness training, knowledge, and careers.

In 1996, Olympic team physician, Dr. Ben Lerner, recognized the practical nature of the IFPA education and invited the IFPA to present its certifications to the Olympic athletes in Colorado Springs. James T. Bell M.S., president and founder of the IFPA, was then invited to be the lead speaker on exercise physiology and sports nutrition at the Olympic Coaches College on two separate occasions (an honor shared by only three other individuals); in 1996 at the University of Minnesota and again in 1998 at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, New York.

Since its inception, the IFPA has grown to include over 25,000 members. The functional education that IFPA certifications provide continues to give it the reputation as being the leader in practical fitness education.

The Mission of the IFPA

The International Fitness Professionals Association is devoted to offering the highest quality learning experiences to individuals aiming to improve their lifestyle, and those aiming to improve the lifestyles of others. Our educational opportunities are designed to provide only the most practical and scientifically based health and fitness information that can be directly applied to "real life" experiences. It is with this dedication that the IFPA is committed to being the lifelong exercise and training resource to the entire fitness community.