In 1994 I attended my first IDEA conference. I was utterly inspired and moved by what I witnessed. In 1996 I began submitting ideas to become a presenter and share my education and learning to the industry. I've witnessed and have been a part of the ever evolving fitness model.

I've seen a new emergence of young educators bringing fresh ideas, fun, and inspiration to move this industry ahead. Two people at the forefront that have dared to inspire the world for the past 30 years are Peter and Cathy Davis, co-founders of IDEA. It is truly amazing what they have done together over the past 30 years to keep fitness fresh, smart, and consistently keep professionals on the cutting edge.

This year the energy at IDEA World was full of life. The attendees were kind, smart, curious, and hungry to try and learn new things. There were so many brilliant presenters, programs, and new products on the market I was nearly on sensory overload when I left this morning!

A few people who have inspired me personally over the years were at the convention presenting their programs and knowledge. I watched the last 8 minutes of a 24 minute intense workout called ShockWave designed by Jay Blahnik (shown in the image), Josh Crosby, and Keli Roberts. It was utterly inspiring. The energy in the room was literally electric. 100 participants went through a high intensity circuit, boot camp style sequence using the Indo-row machine, steps, Bosu balls, medicine balls and wooden dowels. I've never seen anything like it.

I was sad to not personally experience this event as well as Gregg Cook's Spinning session. He and Petra Kolber are in my opinion the most inspiring, motivating movement presenters I've ever seen. They are so present and give such love and motivation effortlessly it's really amazing to watch them in action.

Some other session favorites of mine, Jill Miller's Kneehab, and the TRX Ripped session with Fraser Quelch. A special shout out to Gloria Stewart for helping me in my sessions and to all of the MELT Instructors who came to my sessions even though they know all about MELT!!!

I was happy to see many new events. I was able to pop into 9 different lectures, workshops, and workouts. I've never been so utterly impressed with the presentation quality and participant enthusiasm. It was truly a pleasure to present two MELT sessions - the Restore Series and the Reintegrate/Repattern Series.

I am looking forward to presenting in 2013 at all 3 IDEA events and will be blogging on some innovative ideas and new products I saw at the event. More to come!