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Revision as of 09:56, 10 January 2025 by Wikishovel (talk | contribs) (MOS:LAYOUT)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)The Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend, often referred to simply as the Olympia Weekend, is an annual international fitness expo and competition series that features multiple contests in professional bodybuilding and fitness. Established in 1999, the event has grown to become one of the premier showcases for fitness and bodybuilding athletes. The Olympia Weekend includes contests such as Mr. Olympia, Ms. Olympia, and various other divisions across bodybuilding, physique, and fitness categories.
History
The first Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend was held in 1999 in Las Vegas, Nevada, marking the formalization of a weekend-long event to celebrate bodybuilding and fitness culture. The weekend introduced a variety of contests representing the evolution of fitness categories. These contests now form the backbone of the event and reflect the diversity and growth of professional bodybuilding and fitness.
Contests
The Olympia Weekend hosts multiple contests across various divisions:
Contest | Division | Year introduced |
---|---|---|
Mr. Olympia | Men's Bodybuilding | 1999 |
Fitness Olympia | Women's Fitness | |
Ms. Olympia | Women's Bodybuilding | 2000 |
2020 (reintroduced) | ||
Figure Olympia | Women's Figure | 2003 |
212 Olympia (previously the 202 Olympia) |
Men's 212 Bodybuilding (previously the Men's 202 Bodybuilding until 2012) |
2008 (as the 202 Olympia) |
2012 (renamed 212 Olympia) | ||
Bikini Olympia | Women's Bikini | 2010 |
Men's Physique Olympia | Men's Physique | 2013 |
Women's Physique Olympia | Women's Physique | 2013 |
Classic Physique Olympia | Men's Classic Physique | 2016 |
Wheelchair Olympia | Men's Wheelchair Bodybuilding | 2018 |
Wellness Olympia | Women's Wellness | 2021 |
Expo
The Olympia Fitness & Performance Expo is a major highlight of the weekend. It includes:
- Exhibitor booths showcasing supplements, fitness equipment, apparel, and more.
- Seminars and workshops led by top athletes and industry experts.
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with professional bodybuilders and fitness personalities.
Notable events
The Olympia Weekend has hosted numerous memorable moments in fitness and bodybuilding history. It has served as a platform for showcasing emerging trends, such as the growing popularity of physique and wellness categories. Iconic athletes from various divisions have achieved recognition through their participation in this event.
Locations
Since its inception in 1999, the Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend has primarily been held in Las Vegas, Nevada. However, recent years have seen the event alternate between Las Vegas and Orlando, Florida, providing a broader geographical reach.
Prize money
The Olympia Weekend features one of the largest prize pools in the fitness industry. In 2023, the total prize money for all contests combined exceeded $1.5 million, highlighting the prestige of the event.
Legacy
Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend has played a significant role in promoting the fitness industry and elevating the visibility of bodybuilding as a sport. The event's expo has introduced countless innovations, products, and fitness trends, making it a central gathering point for the global fitness community.
References
- Muscle & Fitness, "History of the Olympia Weekend," 2022
- Joe Weider's Olympia Weekend Official Website, "Expo Highlights"
- Flex Magazine, "Memorable Moments at the Olympia Weekend," 2023
- Muscle & Fitness, "Olympia Weekend Venues Through the Years," 2022
- Flex Magazine, "2023 Olympia Weekend Prize Breakdown," 2023
- Joe Weider, "The Olympia Legacy," 1998. ISBN 978-0809252571
External links
- Official website
- International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness Professional League official website