SAN DIEGO, CA—May 19, 2021—American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA) reached a new milestone in their partnership with the launch of the WIFA Growth Grant, a scholarship that provides current ACE Certified Professionals the opportunity to build and grow their careers with a 1-year WIFA membership.
“The Women in Fitness Association is proud to launch the WIFA growth grant as an actionable outcome of our partnership with ACE,” said Lindsey Rainwater. “We believe that the opportunity to create a more diverse, inclusive and equitable industry is of paramount importance to the future.”
Creating and supporting growth opportunities for women in the fitness industry is more important than ever. According to a recent report analyzing U.S. Census data, women make up 58% of the recreation and fitness workforce, but only earn 86 cents to every dollar earned by men in the same occupation.
Globally, women only make up 29% of senior leadership positions (e.g., CEO, CFO, COO, CIO, CMO). In a sector in which women outpace men in health club memberships consumption, women should be equally represented to acknowledge and celebrate their contributions to the industry. WIFA and ACE believe this is possible through investing in women exercise professionals and health coaches.
“ACE believes in equitable opportunities for success in the fitness industry,” said ACE Executive Vice President of Central Services Amanda Cass. “On behalf of the 50,000-plus ACE Certified Professionals who are women, ACE is honored to support the WIFA Growth Grant to set the stage for women in fitness to rise to their fullest leadership potential.”
Applications for the WIFA Growth Grant are now available and will be accepted until June 30, 2021.
About the Women In Fitness Association
WIFA is a global nonprofit association that cultivates collaboration and leadership for women in the fitness industry. Created to champion one another and achieve our ultimate potential. Known for unparalleled career development and networking. Fostering deeply connected relationships, elevated synergy and a collaborative, supportive community. Working together to see women create a diverse and inclusive future for our industry. WIFA offers quarterly virtual meetings, annual live events and “crowdsource” topics so everyone involved can contribute.
About the American Council on Exercise
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is a nonprofit organization with global reach that works to improve physical-activity levels by certifying exercise professionals and health coaches, publishing original research, convening experts on physical activity and health, working directly with community groups, and advocating for policies to get people from all walks of life moving. The 90,000 exercise professionals and health coaches certified by ACE are among the most respected in the world of fitness, helping people embrace physical activity and adopt a healthier lifestyle. For more information, call 800-825-3636 or visit ACEfitness.org. AMERICAN COUNCIL ON EXERCISE, ACE and ACE logos are Registered Trademarks of the American Council on Exercise.