The International Aerobic Federation works to promote sport aerobics worldwide. In 1982, the American Robert Anderson, publisher of Runner’s World magazine, played a central role in establishing the Fitness and Aerobics International Association (two headquarters: USA HQ and Japan HQ) as an international organization working to increase the popularity of sport aerobics around the world. Later, seeking to have it recognized as an official Olympic event, international championships were held in the USA, South America, Asia and Europe.

In 1988, it was reorganized into the present-day International Aerobic Federation (IAF), consolidating the headquarters in the Japan HQ. In 1990, the first Suzuki World Cup International Aerobic Championship in the world was held, and has been held every year up to the present time. In 1992, the Japanese division became independent as the Japan Aerobic Federation, governed by the (then) Education Ministry.

Today, it cooperates with the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique(FIG) that controls gymnastics worldwide, working to have aerobic acknowledged as an official Olympic event.