The Arnold Strongman Classic is an annual competition that showcases strength athletes from around the world. It is considered one of the most prestigious and demanding strongman competitions due to the heavy weights and innovative events. The event is held as part of the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer created the Arnold Strongman Classic in 2002 as an offshoot of the Arnold Sports Festival. The winner receives the Louis Cyr Trophy.
The competition typically features 10 invited, top-ranked athletes who compete in events that emphasize static strength, such as the Elephant Bar deadlift, overhead log presses, timber carries, and Atlas stone loading. Žydrūnas Savickas has the most Arnold Strongman Classic titles, with eight victories. He also holds the record for the most ASC event wins, with 29. The 2026 Arnold Strongman Classic will be held on March 6 and 7. Mitchell Hooper won his third consecutive title in 2025, becoming only the third man to do so.
