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The fitness industry is paying tributes to John Holsinger, the long-time Asia Pacific Director of the International Health, Fitness, Racquet and Sports Club Association (IHRSA), who died last night following a motorcycle accident in Western NSW.

Sydney-based Holsinger, aged 70, who had performed his role for IHRSA over the past 16 years, is widely credited for influencing clubs and their success across the Asia-Pacific region and IHRSA’s visibility in key nations including China, Japan, Singapore and Australia.

Prior to joining IHRSA in 2015 he was Vice President International and Managing Director, Asia Pacific for Life Fitness, with responsibility for three subsidiaries and 10 distributors covering 24 Asian countries.

Leading tributes, Justin Tamsett of JT Active Management, wrote on Facebook “it is with much sadness I share with the global fitness industry, that the much loved and highly respected John Holsinger passed away last night.

“John sustained head injuries after a nasty motor bike accident outside of Broken Hill, NSW and simply didn't recover after a week in Adelaide Hospital.

“John was a phenomenal human being who loved what he did and for decades supported the growth of the fitness industry, especially in the APAC region.

“He will be missed by so many people in our great industry.”

On LinkedIn, Amanda Bracks of Soulful Fitness Yoga and Pilates Studio, stated “after hearing the news of the passing of John Holsinger a tribute was needed.

“I have so much to thank this man for. He not only booked my international speaking gigs but believed in me, allowed me to be my boisterous self and taught me so much about the fitness industry in different cultures. He stretched me, helped me grow and for this I am so grateful.

“We travelled to China, US, and other countries as well as catching up in Australia year after year, decade after decade.

“When I was inducted into the Australian Fitness Roll of Honour I looked over to him and did an impromptu thank you.

“It's those small words we must say to each other. This man was so intelligent and gentle and was always a gentleman with complete integrity and professionalism.

“He did so much for the Australasian fitness industry, more than any single person.

“Rest in peace and thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Bill Moore, former Fitness Australia (now AUSactive) Chief Executive, also commented "tragic news, struggling to digest it.

"John was a great ambassador for IHRSA, the fitness industry and the USA. A true gentleman, and a passionate motorcyclist.

"Rest In Peace John, thank you for your support, friendship and advocacy over many, many years. The industry mourns you, as do I.

"To Val, I’m sure my deep condolences are shared by the entire Australian fitness industry."

Image courtesy of IHRSA/Justin Tamsett.

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