Indonesia to Host 1st Asian Gym for Life Challenge 2026

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia has once again been entrusted to host an international sports event, the 1st Asian Gym for Life Challenge 2026, scheduled for October 15–18 in Yogyakarta. Hundreds of “gymnastics for all” communities from across Asia are expected to take part in this inaugural event.

Indonesia's selection was approved unanimously by the Executive Committee of the Asian Gymnastics Union (AGU) after Thailand withdrew as host. This marks the first edition of the event in Asia and is projected to become an annual international gathering.

“This is an event in one of the gymnastics disciplines, namely ‘gymnastics for all,’ where the entire gymnastics community can participate and register,” said Indonesian Gymnastics Federation (FGI) Chairwoman Ita Yuliati in an official statement in Jakarta on Saturday, May 23, as quoted by Antara.

Unlike competitive gymnastics, ‘gymnastics for all’ promotes an inclusive, non‑competitive approach. People of all ages, genders, and abilities can participate. The discipline emphasizes fitness, entertainment, friendship, and group performances that encourage a healthy lifestyle.

The event is also expected to strengthen Indonesia’s sports tourism by integrating sports and culture.

Yogyakarta was chosen as the venue for its tourist appeal and the infrastructure that supports sports tourism. Hosting the event is expected to help drive the local economy, particularly tourism and small businesses.

“Yogyakarta is a city with numerous tourist destinations and is well‑suited for the development of sports tourism. We hope this event can contribute and help stimulate the local economy,” Ita said.

Beyond serving as a sports stage, the Asian Gym for Life Challenge 2026 is also expected to become a platform to promote Indonesian culture internationally through community performances and recreational gymnastics activities. ***