2025 Arnold Classic

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Arnold Schwarzenegger co-founded the Arnold Sports Festival in 1989, and it is the main annual multi-sport event that celebrates health and athleticism. The future event will take place from February 27 to March 2, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio, mostly at the Columbus Convention Center.

The festival includes a wide range of contests, such as bodybuilding, strongman events, gymnastics, and martial arts. Notably, the Arnold Classic bodybuilding competition is a highlight, drawing elite competitors from all around the world.

In addition to contests, the event will feature an expo displaying the latest in fitness equipment, gear, and nutrition, as well as opportunities for participants to interact with industry professionals and celebrities. Tickets for the 2025 festival are on sale, with a variety of alternatives to suit different events and experiences.

For the most up-to-date information on event schedules, ticket availability, and participating athletes, please visit the Arnold Sports Festival website.

Arnold Sports Festival

www.arnoldsports.com

2025 Arnold Strongman and Strongwoman Classic​

We are looking forward to the 2025 Arnold Strongman & Strongwoman Classic, scheduled to take place in Columbus, Ohio, from February 28 to March 1. This renowned gathering of elite strength athletes has long been a highlight of the competitive season, and the next edition promises six formidable events spread across two action-packed days.

Day One Events​

Elephant Bar Deadlift for Max​

This familiar classic challenges participants to pull the heaviest possible weight using the distinctive Elephant Bar. The bar’s increased length and flexibility tests everything from spinal rigidity to brute pulling power. Strict rules against deadlift suits and briefs intensify the difficulty, demanding a potent mix of technique, grip, and raw strength.

Overhead Gauntlet​

In this overhead challenge, athletes must lift and press three separate implements: a stone, a circus dumbbell, and a log. The transition from one implement to the next forces competitors to adapt on the fly, showcasing dynamic power in the shoulders and upper back. Each lift must be completed with full extension overhead, demanding unwavering stability and precision.

Frame Carry​

Often underestimated, this event revolves around grip endurance, back stability, and foot speed. A substantial wooden frame must be hoisted from the ground and carried over a fixed distance. Straps are prohibited, magnifying the role of forearm and finger strength. Perfect posture and carefully regulated breathing ensure each step is deliberate, keeping the frame balanced and secure.

Day Two Events​

The Big Jerk for Max​

Commencing day two, this test of explosive overhead power begins with the bar already poised at shoulder height. Athletes must attempt to jerk the heaviest weight possible to arm’s length. Timing and technique remain paramount, as each competitor drives the bar with leg power before locking out overhead. Precision in foot placement and hip extension can make or break the final lift.

The Timber Test​

A brand-new addition, this multifaceted challenge has left many athletes speculating about the details. It is known to incorporate log implements that must be lifted, carried, or loaded in a timed format. Weight increments are rumored to vary, demanding both muscular endurance and adaptability. The unknown parameters add an extra layer of intrigue, as successful athletes must be ready for sudden changes.

Atlas Stone to Shoulder​

One of the most iconic Strongman events rounds out the competition with a display of raw core engagement. Athletes hoist a massive stone from the ground to one shoulder, attempting multiple reps within a fixed time. The stone’s size, grip, and weight demand unwavering focus. Each repetition tests the synergy between lower-body drive and upper-body stability while straining nearly every muscle group.

Preparing for an Epic Showdown​

We anticipate world-class athletes converging in Columbus for a weekend that will push the boundaries of modern strength sports. Each event has been carefully chosen to highlight a diverse range of abilities, from maximal power to grip endurance and technical proficiency. Fans can expect a showcase of top-tier feats throughout the weekend, culminating in a final push for glory with the Atlas Stone to Shoulder.

We urge everyone to stay tuned for updates, roster changes, and potential rule modifications as the event approaches. This year’s 2025 Arnold Strongman & Strongwoman Classic promises to deliver an unparalleled spectacle of resilience and might, adding yet another proud chapter to the legacy of strength competitions.

 

[underbody]

men’s open bodybuilding

• William Bonac
• Shaun Clarida
• Brandon Curry
• Samson Dauda
• Jonathan DeLaRosa
• James Hollingshead
• Andrew Jacked
• Derek Lunsford
• Patrick Moore
• Justin Rodriguez
• Carlos Thomas Jr.
• Akim Williams

men’s classic physique

• Osmar Alanis
• Adejoh Franklin Audu
• Jihoon Bang
• Michael Daboul
• Logan Franklin
• Lucas Funk
• Matthew Greggo
• Junior Javorski
• Mike Sommerfeld
• Wesley Vissers
• Jeremiah Willies
• Gabriel Zancanelli

men’s physique

• Erin Banks
• Ali Bilal
• Alessandro Cavagnola
• Vitor Chaves
• Rhyan Clark
• Emmanuel Costa
• Guilherme Gualbarto
• Jason Huynh
• Diogo Montenegro
• Rafael Oliveira
• Sidy Pouye
• Dmytro Voievodchuk

wheelchair

• Gabriele Andruilli
• James Berger
• Bradley Betts
• Rajesh John
• Harold Kelley
• Jason Metcalf
• Kyle Roberts
• Kevin Secundino
• Steve Suppes

fitness

• Jaclyn Baker
• Rene Brosch
• Tiffany Chandler
• Michelle Fredua-Mensah
• Michelle Gales
• Andrea Glass
• Ariel Khadr
• Minna Pajulahti
• Michaela Pavleova
• Kristin Pope
• Amber Steffen
• Tamara Vahn

bikini

• Maria Acosta
• Vania Auguste
• Maureen Blanquisco
• Jordan Brannon
• Ariana Brothers
• Tameika Carter
• Lauralie Chapados
• Aimee Delgado
• Jasmine Gonzalez
• Ashlyn Little
• Anastacia Spragans
• Angelica Teixeira

wellness

• Elisa Alcantara
• Eduarda Bezerra
• Sandra Colorado
• Lili Dong
• Kassandra Gillis
• Hye Yoon Kim
• Lisa Meiswinkel
• Isabelle Nunes
• Audrea-Ann Roy
• Sina Maria Teresa
• Brenda Victoria Reyes Villa
• Simara Walter

 

[underbody]

Derek lunsford 11 weeks out

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[underbody]

Samson Dauda today

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[underbody]

Derek lunsford today

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[underbody]

New pics of samson Dauda

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[underbody]

Carlos Thomas Jr
Today

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[underbody]

Chris aceto is working with derek lunsford

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[MuscleMecca Crew]

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

*9:00AM daily entry for VIP, Ultimate Expo & Fast Pass Ticket holders

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Special Guests at the 2025 Arnold Classic to meet are Chris Bumstead, Sam Sulek, Jay Cutler, and Ronnie Coleman!

Men's Open Bodybuilding:

• William Bonac
• Shaun Clarida
• Brandon Curry
• Samson Dauda
• Jonathan DeLaRosa
• James Hollingshead
• Andrew Jacked
• Derek Lunsford
• Patrick Moore
• Justin Rodriguez
• Carlos Thomas Jr.
• Akim Williams

Classic Physique:

• Osmar Alanis
• Franklyn Audu
• Ji Hoon Bang
• Michael Daboul
• Logan Franklin
• Lucas Funk
• Matthew Greggo
• Junior Javorski
• Mike Sommerfeld
• Wesley Vissers
• Jeremiah Willies
• Gabriel Zancanelli

Men's Physique:

• Erin Banks
• Ali Bilal
• Alessandro Cavagnola
• Vitor Chaves
• Rhyan Clark
• Emmanuel Costa
• Guilherme Gualberto
• Jason Huynh
• Diogo Montenegro
• Rafael Oliveira
• Sidy Pouye
• Dmytro Voievodchuk

Men's Wheelchair:

• Harold Kelley
• Bradley Betts
• Gabriele Andriulli
• Jason Metcalf
• James Berger
• Kevin Secundino
• Rajesh John
• Steve Suppes
• Kyle Roberts

Bikini:

• Maria Acosta
• Vania Auguste
• Maureen Blanquisco
• Jordan Brannon
• Ariana Brothers
• Tamekia Carter
• Lauralie Chapados
• Aimee Delgado
• Jasmine Gonzalez
• Ashlyn Little
• Anastacia Spragans
• Angelica Teixeira

Fitness:

• Jaclyn Baker
• Rene Brosch
• Tiffany Chandler
• Michelle Gales
• Andrea Glass
• Ariel Khadr
• Michelle Fredua-Mensah
• Minna Pajulahti
• Michaela Pavleova
• Kristin Pope
• Amber Steffen
• Tamara Vahn

Wellness:

• Elisa Alcantara
• Eduarda Bezerra
• Sandra Colorado
• Lili Dong
• Kassandra Gillis
• Hye Yoon Kim
• Lisa Meiswinkel
• Isabelle Nunes
• Sina Maria Teresa
• Audrea-Ann Roy
• Victoria Reyes Villa
• Simara Walter

 

[underbody]

Shaun Clarida 's back

I am using the MuscleMecca Bodybuilding Mobile App!

 

[James Hollingshead Feed]

2025 Arnold classic 9 weeks out back day James Hollingshead!

 

[Brandon Curry]

Brandon Curry 6 weeks out from the 2025 Arnold Classic

 

[underbody]

Brandon Curry 6 weeks out from the 2025 Arnold Classic

greate shape! you look amazing!

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Brandon Curry’s Physique Update before the 2025 Arnold Classic
For the first time, Curry has revamped his approach, working with renowned coach Justin Harris. This strategic shift marks a departure from his previous training routines, which often involved traveling to Kuwait for intense preparations. Staying in the United States this time, Curry has credited his wife, Brandy Leaver, for her unwavering support in making this transition seamless.

“The grind is real, but staying home has allowed me to find balance,” Curry shared. This adjustment could prove pivotal in his quest for dominance on the Columbus stage.

Physique Update: A Sneak Peek​

On January 16, 2025, Curry took to Instagram to unveil a physique update six weeks out from the competition. While he refrained from disclosing his current weight, the video showcased his hallmark aesthetics: a combination of symmetry, muscularity, and conditioning. Fans noted his improved midsection and fuller deltoids, attributes that could give him an edge in the highly competitive lineup.

Key Highlights of Curry’s Physique:​

• Symmetry and Balance: A well-proportioned physique with no glaring weaknesses.
• Improved Conditioning: Notable striations in the quads and vascularity in the arms.
• Enhanced Size: Fuller chest and shoulders, emphasizing his upper-body dominance.

Historical Context: The Significance of a Third Arnold Classic Title​

Winning the Arnold Classic three times is a rare achievement, reserved for the sport’s elite. If Curry triumphs in 2025, he will join an exclusive club alongside Flex Wheeler, Dexter Jackson, and Jay Cutler. For Curry, this title represents not just another accolade but also a statement of resilience and longevity in a career spanning over 15 years.

Career Milestones:​

• 2008: Turned professional.
• 2019: Captured both the Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic titles.
• 2022: Secured his second Arnold Classic win.
• 2024: Placed ninth at Mr. Olympia.

The Road to Redemption​

Curry’s performance at the 2024 Mr. Olympia, where he placed ninth, was a reminder of the sport’s evolving competitiveness. However, this setback has fueled his determination to reclaim his spot among the top contenders. The Arnold Classic offers a perfect stage for redemption, with a $500,000 prize and an automatic qualification for the 2025 Mr. Olympia on the line.

Potential Entry into the Masters Olympia​

At 42, Curry remains a strong candidate for the 2025 Masters Olympia, set to take place in Tokyo, Japan. If he competes and wins, Curry would become the second athlete in history to claim titles in the Olympia, Masters Olympia, and Arnold Classic. Dexter Jackson remains the only other athlete to achieve this illustrious trifecta.

Implications of Competing in the Masters Olympia:​

• Legacy Enhancement: Solidify his position as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
• Career Longevity: Showcase his ability to compete at the highest level well into his 40s.
• Historical Significance: Join an exclusive group of multi-title holders.

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Jay Cutler and Mike Sommerfeld's Intense Leg Workout for the 2025 Arnold Classic
Mike Sommerfeld has rapidly climbed the ranks in the bodybuilding world, narrowly missing the Mr. Olympia title to Chris Bumstead in 2024. With his sights set on the 2025 Arnold Classic, Sommerfeld has turned to Cutler for guidance. This partnership represents a meeting of past and future champions, united by a shared goal of excellence.

Detailed Breakdown of the Leg Workout​

1. Seated Leg Curl Machine​

The workout began with the seated leg curl machine to target the hamstrings. Cutler emphasized the importance of controlled repetitions and consistent tension throughout the movement. According to Cutler:

• Repetition Range: 12 reps per set, ensuring proper muscle activation.
• Key Tip: Maintain a slight pause at the peak contraction to enhance engagement.

2. Standing One-Leg Leg Curl Machine​

This unilateral exercise isolates each leg, correcting muscle imbalances. Cutler demonstrated his approach:

• Technique: Use a partial range of motion to keep constant tension on the muscle.
• Tip: Incorporate brief pauses to reset and focus on form.

3. Stiff-Leg Dumbbell Deadlift​

Targeting the hamstrings and glutes, Sommerfeld revealed his preference for dumbbells over barbells:

• Form: Keep the back straight and hinge at the hips.
• Tip: Focus on a slow eccentric phase to maximize muscle stretch.

4. Lying Leg Curl Machine​

A staple in hamstring training, Cutler shared his philosophy of high-volume training:

• Sets: Aim for 40 total sets of quads and hamstrings per week.
• Key Insight: Train to failure to achieve optimal results.

5. Leg Extension Machine​

This exercise isolates the quadriceps:

• Rest Periods: Keep rest intervals to 45-60 seconds for enhanced intensity.
• Advice: Maintain control throughout the movement to avoid momentum.

6. Leg Press​

The leg press allowed Sommerfeld to focus on quad and glute development:

• Stance: Position feet to target specific muscle groups.
• Form Tip: Push through the heels and avoid locking out the knees.

7. Barbell Walking Lunges​

Drawing inspiration from Ronnie Coleman, this exercise engaged the entire lower body:

• Focus: Engage the glutes and hamstrings by maintaining an upright posture.
• Goal: Complete 12 reps per leg, ensuring full activation.

8. Hip Adduction Machine​

To round out the workout, Sommerfeld used the hip adduction machine:

• Purpose: Strengthen the inner thighs for balanced development.
• Insight: Incorporate slow, controlled movements to maximize muscle recruitment.

Training Philosophy: Volume and Precision​

Cutler and Sommerfeld’s leg workout highlights the importance of combining high volume with precise technique. Cutler’s training philosophy—built on decades of experience—emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring each repetition contributes to muscle growth and strength.

Suggested Diagram​