The FIA will host a high-profile government summit in April, with health secretary, John Reid and sports minister, Richard Caborn, among the speakers.

The summit, which will look at an integrated approach to health and fitness, is planned to coincide with the release of the Chief Medical Officer’s Report, which will bring together the latest research and evidence on physical activity and health.

The summit will take a proactive look at the role the fitness industry can play in improving the health of the nation and supporting the targets set out in the government’s Game Plan strategy.

The summit, supported by Life Fitness and the Vanguard Council, will be held in the Betty Boothroyd room in the Houses of Parliament, overlooking the river, on Thursday 21 April, and 100 key industry representatives will be invited to attend.

Andrée Deane, public affairs director of the FIA, said: “It’s essential that we align ourselves with the key government messages on health and fitness.”

Following the summit, a drinks reception will be held in the House of Commons terrace bar.

The Vanguard Council and a number of MPs have agreed to wear a pedometer prior to the event to promote the importance of physical activity and the results of their activity levels in the run-up to the event will be announced during the reception.