Maybe you’re still looking for inspiration to finally get started on your New Year’s resolution to try weightlifting, or perhaps you’re interested in checking out the latest lines of workout wear.
Maybe you enjoy watching fencing — or have never seen it and are curious — or are looking to pick up tips from some top table tennis pros.
For these reasons and more, the Arnold Sports Festival will set up again in Columbus with a lineup of more than 18,000 athletes competing in more than 45 sports and events.
The festival, which lasts from March 1-4, was started in 1989 and is named after bodybuilding legend-turned-governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. It has grown in subsequent years and this year will offer a number of highlights, including the U.S. Olympic trials for weightlifting to determine which athletes will represent the U.S. in the London Summer Olympics.
New events include a men’s physique division in the Arnold Amateur bodybuilding competition and a Zumba Fitness and More room, where attendees can squeeze in a cardio workout between events.
Youth events also will be featured in events such as gymnastics, cheerleading and martial arts.
At the Arnold Fitness Expo, guests can browse through 700 booths featuring sports equipment, apparel and nutrition as well as a stage for competitions and entertainment.
The event will take place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, Franklin County Veterans Memorial, LC Pavilion and other area venues. A free shuttle service will allow attendees to travel among sites.
The event is expected to draw at least 175,000 fans.