The Ultimate Bodybuilders Guide to the 2025 Arnold Sports Festival
Everything You Need to Know About the 2025 Arnold’s Weekend
The 2025 Arnold Sports Festival is set to kickoff the bodybuilding season from February 27 to March 2 in Columbus, Ohio. Held at the iconic Greater Columbus Convention Center, 400 N. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215, this event is much more than a competition; it’s a celebration of fitness, strength, and community. Established in 1989 by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer, this festival has grown from a single-day bodybuilding competition to the premier multi-sport event in North America.
With 500+ booths showcasing cutting-edge fitness products, multiple world-class competitions, and countless opportunities to meet industry icons, this is the must-attend event to kickstart the year.
The Main Events
IFBB Pro League Meet & Greet
Kick off your Arnold weekend on Thursday night with the highly anticipated IFBB Pro League Meet & Greet. Rub shoulders with the top names in bodybuilding and fitness, snap photos with your favorite pros, and get inspired by the athletes who define the industry.
The IFBB Pro League Meet & Greet will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Hilton Columbus.
Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Contest
The Arnold Classic refers to the Men’s Open Bodybuilding category, where the world’s elite competitors vie for glory. But the action doesn’t stop there. Six additional categories will take the stage:
- Classic Physique
- Men’s Physique
- Bikini International
- Wellness International
- Pro Wheelchair
- Fitness International
- Arnold Amateur
Whether you’re a fan of mass monsters, aesthetic physiques, the dynamic routines of the Fitness division, or the awe-inspiring performances of the incredible Pro Wheelchair athletes, these contests deliver the best of the bodybuilding world.
Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Contests
Prepare to witness jaw-dropping feats of strength as the world’s strongest Men and Women compete in events such as the Elephant Bar Deadlift, the Overhead Gauntlet, Frame Carry, and so many more that push human limits. These competitions are a crowd favorite and always deliver unforgettable moments. Will the 2024 Champions Mitchell Hooper and Angelica Jardine successfully defend their titles? And don’t forget to catch the next generation of competitors stepping on stage at the Amateur Strongman.
Arnold Sports Festival Expo
The heart of the festival, the 2025 Arnold Expo, will feature more than 500 booths showcasing the latest in sports equipment, apparel, and nutrition. The expo is also home to several stages hosting nonstop competitions and entertainment. Many brands launch their newest products and innovations at the expo, so come ready to explore, discover, and shop. You may even want to pack an extra suitcase for all the supplements and gear you’re likely to take home.
2025 Arnold Expo Hours:
- Friday, February 28: 10:00AM - 7:00PM
- Saturday, March 1: 10:00AM - 7:00PM
- Sunday, March 2: 10:00AM - 4:00PM
Arnold Showcase
On Sunday, cap off your weekend with the Arnold Showcase. Featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger himself and a lineup of bodybuilding legends, this open forum provides a unique opportunity to hear from the icons of the sport. Ask questions, listen to inspiring stories, and soak in the wisdom of the Governator and other stars.
Survival Tips for the Weekend
Where to Stay in Columbus
The Hilton Columbus Downtown and Hyatt Regency are the go-to accommodations, offering proximity to the convention center and opportunities to mingle with industry insiders. However, if you haven’t booked yet, you may need to look a bit further from the venue. For booking hotels in the area, you will need to go through the official Arnold Sports Festival website link to find accommodations for that weekend.
How to Get Around
Parking can be a challenge, so plan ahead. Purchase parking passes online or rely on the complimentary Arnold Shuttles connecting major hotels and the convention center. For shorter trips, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are your best options.
What to Bring
- Water: Stay hydrated without breaking the bank.
- Snacks: Perfect for maintaining your diet.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking and standing for hours.
- Camera/Phone: Capture memories and share them on social media.
Where to Eat and Relax
When it’s time to refuel, Columbus offers something for everyone. For a unique Muscle Insider-approved experience, check out 16-Bit Bar + Arcade, where you can enjoy retro games and craft cocktails. Steak lovers should head to Mitchell’s Steakhouse, and those seeking a challenge can tackle the Thurmanator burger at The Thurman Café in German Village.
Engage Online
Stay connected and in the loop throughout the weekend. If you aren’t able to attend the Arnold Sports Festival in person, you can always catch the live stream. Don’t forget to stay tuned to Muscle Insider on Instagram (@muscleinsider) and YouTube (@muscleinsider), where we’ll bring you behind-the-scenes action, interviews, and exclusive content.
Why the Arnold Sports Festival Stands Out
This festival isn’t just about watching competitions; it’s about immersing yourself in the fitness industry. The expo serves as a launchpad for brands unveiling their latest products, giving attendees the first look at innovations shaping the future of health and wellness. It’s the ultimate networking and shopping experience for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike.
See You in Columbus!
The Arnold Sports Festival 2025 promises to deliver an unforgettable weekend packed with muscle, entertainment, and camaraderie. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Columbus transforms into the fitness capital of the world. So, pack your gear, plan your itinerary, and get ready to be inspired. See you at the Greater Columbus Convention Center!
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