Star City StrongFest is a free, family-friendly festival that brings together strength sports, local wellness organizations and the community. It is the signature event supporting the Star City Strong Foundation 501c3 nonprofit.
This unique event serves the community as a celebration of strength sports and community - while recognizing the impact both have on our mental wellness.
43%
In a large-scale US study of over 1.2 million adults, 43% reported fewer poor mental health days when they were physically active.
(Checkroud et al., 2018)
2x
Just 2 strength workouts per week are enough to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression.
(O'Connor et al.,
American College of Sports Medicine, 2020)
75%
A review of 43 studies found adding exercise to substance use treatment protocol reduced recurring use in 75% of cases and decreased depression in 28%.
(Abrantes et al., 2023)
> $20K
Thanks to awesome support we've received, StrongFest & Star City Strongman have already contributed over $20,000 to local needs, including youth mental health, addiction recovery and community wellness.
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 2023 StrongFest 2 |
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What can I do at StrongFest?
Check out the Kidz Zone with the fam, shop our festival vendors, participate in activities and enjoy some yummy food while watching feats of strength in the annual Star City Strongman competition!
What is Strongman?
Strongman is a weightlifting sport that focuses on power, endurance and maximum strength. Unlike the name implies, the sport is open and accessible to any human; there are training and competitive experiences for all ages, experience levels, backgrounds and abilities. In fact, one of the judges at StrongFest also runs America's Strongest Athlete with Disabilities!
Competitors are divided into weight classes and compete in amateur and professional circuits. Much like other sports, Strongman has a supportive community. They do things like flip tires, lift atlas stones, press axles, deadlift cars ... it's a lot of fun to do and watch. StrongFest is honored to have the continued support of Bobby Thompson, American Log Press Record Holder and 2022 World's Strongest Man.
If you're interested in competing in Star City Strongman or learning more about the sport, let us know!
Why is Strongman part of this festival?
Star City StrongFest grew organically from athlete feedback about how the lifting community enhances their well-being. These stories are common in active communities and this festival serves as a way to highlight them and share the opportunity for others to become a part of that positive environment. Research shows that strong social networks, positive peer influence and shared purpose can significantly improve our mental wellness.
Strongman is a sport and offers an element of entertainment, making it the perfect focus of a festival. We are grateful to share the opportunity to be inspired by and connect with amateur and professional athletes alike. We are #StrongerTogether.