The prestigious Mr. Olympia contest is making some big changes to its schedule in 2026. In an Instagram post from July 3, the brand revealed that the Fitness Olympia finals have moved to Saturday night.
The Fitness division has stark differences from other categories. It’s the only class where athletes are tasked with a separate physique and posing round. Competitors are expected to perform gymnastic movements, dance choreography, and strength exercises like push-ups as part of their routines.
In 2025, the Fitness Olympia saw an intense showdown between Jaclyn Baker and Michelle Fredua-Mensah. Fredua-Mensah was dominant in the physique round, and her explosiveness during her individual routine cemented her victory. Now, Fitness will join the Saturday night lineup, alongside the headlining Men’s Open division.
2026 Mr. Olympia Announces Change to Schedule, Fitness Finals Move to Saturday Night
In the Instagram post, the Mr. Olympia announced that the Fitness division finals will take place on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
“Today is “Announcement Friday”. Let’s begin with our first announcement: FITNESS OLYMPIA FINALS has been moved to Saturday Night!!” the Olympia Instagram account shared.
Fans were receptive to the latest changes and gave their thoughts on the new schedule:
“Interesting. Friday is usually lower attendance and now they are moving more to Saturday. Wonder if they do something to balance Friday and give it something more.”
“This is awesome! Having the fitness ladies open this Saturday show is going to be amazing!”
“This is good to hear! Fitness is getting respected with top honors with the big show! ❤️🙌🔥!”
“Wooohoooo!!!! Excited for this 😍”
“Friday has 6 division finals + open pre judging. Saturday now has 4 division finals. And fitness only has 10 athletes. They moved classic to Friday”
Since its inception in 1965, the annual Mr. Olympia has served as the number one bodybuilding show in the world. As the sport continues to evolve, so has the stage, leading IFBB Pro League brass to introduce a new Fit Model division at this year’s gathering.
They also reintroduced the point system for all bodybuilding categories outside of the Men’s Open. Many believe these adjustments have made it harder for competitors to qualify for the ‘Super Bowl of Bodybuilding,’ especially for divisions like Fitness.
Anticipation for the biggest show of the year continues to build. The 2026 Mr. Olympia will take place from September 24-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Our team at Fitness Volt will have comprehensive previews and live results coverage.
