What Makes the Fit Show Different
“I was judging a show several years ago. I came in, sat down at the Judges’ table, started getting my scorecards in order and waiting for the show to begin when I started noticing something. There was only one dinky little banner that was hanging on stage with some string and really nothing else in the entire school auditorium or building that would tell someone there was a competition going on there that day. The lack of effort and production value was appalling to me. It actually made me really mad! The competitors, who had worked their butts off for weeks, months, or even years to stand on this stage, did not even have a worthy stage or experience to match their hard work, effort and discipline leading up to this. I sat there quietly fuming and I thought to myself “I could promote a show better than this!” - Whitney
Why This Show Is Built for the Athlete Experience
In a sport that is often fast-paced, competitive, and male-dominated, the NPC/IFBB Nashville Fit Show was created with one clear goal in mind: To inspire confidence and strength in women. To empower and build community. To put the athlete experience first.
This isn’t just another bodybuilding competition. It’s a show intentionally designed to make every woman who steps on stage feel confident, supported, and seen — whether it’s her very first competition or her tenth season.
Here’s what truly sets the Fit Show apart.
1. Built By an Athlete, For Athletes
The Fit Show was founded by a retired IFBB Pro Athlete and Olympian, Whitney Wiser Savage, who spent almost a decade competing on pro level stages around the world — seeing both the best and the worst of what shows were offering.
Those experiences are a few that shaped the foundation of this event.
Every detail — from athlete communication to production to flow — is designed from the perspective of someone who knows exactly what competitors invest to get to the stage:
Weeks, months (or even YEARS) of preparation
Physical, mental, and emotional discipline
Extreme organization and commitment
Sacrifice, resilience, and courage
This show exists to honor all of THAT and more.
2. A Female-Focused Environment That Feels Empowering
While bodybuilding has traditionally been male-dominated, the Nashville Fit Show was started specifically to create a space where women can thrive, compete, and support one another.
From backstage energy to the overall tone of the event, here’s what a few past competitors have said about the environment:
“It’s just such a positive environment – I mean I’ve already made like three friends and it’s just so nice just being all women here together. Everybody’s been complimenting each other, lifting each other up. I’ve seen girls that just met fixing each other’s hair, helping each other get into their suits and just answering questions – it’s just such a good environment,”
— Brandy M.
“My experience here at the Nashville Fit Show has been absolutely amazing! The energy is incomparable. Everyone is so nice. Everything is so streamlined and organized and by far one of my favorite shows! It’s always been a bucket list actually of mine to come to Nashville, but to also be able to compete and make a whole experience out of the entire event weekend so I’m staying longer to make that experience!”
— Megan F.
Overall, women have described it as encouraging, not intimidating. Professional, not chaotic. Competitive, yet community-driven. Every year, athletes say how different the show feels!
“I had an amazing time! It was my first show and I had no idea what to expect. What I didn't expect was that it would be so full of hope, empowerment, and I'd be so happy! I was happy and at peace the entire time. Show ran efficiently, I felt like the athletes were spoiled (amazing swag bag) and those large metals, just wow!! Great show ran by an inspiring woman. I met so many wonderful people too. Highly recommend! Girl power!”
— Amy W.
“This is hands-down the best experience I’ve ever had at a fitness competition! From the grassroots efforts of the organizational skills to even the minute details of planning that all went into this event to make it the number 1 and best opportunity for all the competitors is just beyond amazing from every single aspect. The gifts are amazing and you can just tell that it’s very genuine and Whitney really cares about each individual’s experience at this show.”
— Jen K.
Th culture is intentional — and protected.
3. Production Value That Makes Every Athlete Feel Like a Pro
Not every competitor will step on an Olympian stage — and that’s exactly why the experience matters even more.
At the Fit Show:
Stage lighting is designed to enhance physiques fairly. This is THE most crucial aspect of a show and often one that is overlooked at local shows.
Stage flow is smooth, organized, and over-communicated
Music, timing, and production are intentional
Awards and recognition are treated with respect and care
The goal is simple: Every athlete deserves a professional, elevated experience — regardless of level.
The details matter. And they’re never an afterthought.
4. More Than Trophies: Honoring Stories & Strength
The Nashville Fit Show believes that competing is about more than physiques alone.
That’s why special awards and initiatives were created to recognize:
Resilience, Personal growth, Overcoming adversity, and simply the courage it takes to step on stage!
Through features like the Fit Show Story Project and the Overcomer Award, athletes are celebrated not just for how they look — but for who they are and what they’ve walked through. Because strength isn’t only built in the gym.
5. Communication, Organization & Athletes Come First
One of the most common frustrations competitors experience is poor communication leading up to a show.
The Fit Show prioritizes:
Clear timelines and expectations
Resources throughout prep leading up to the show
Organized check-in and show day flow
Transparent information for athletes to help everyone feel more confident and sucessful
Ongoing improvements based on athlete feedback
When athletes know what to expect, they can focus on what matters most: showing up confident and prepared.
Raising the Standard — For the Athletes
The Fit Show isn’t about being the biggest. It’s about being intentional.
It’s about raising the standard of what athletes should expect from a competition — and creating an experience that reflects the dedication competitors bring to the stage.
If you’re looking for a show that values:
Excellence and integrity
Empowerment
Community and Networking
And the athlete experience
You’re in the right place.
Ready to Join the Movement?
We’ve got TONS of valuable resources to help you along the way during prep! From workshops, to online courses, free videos lessons, and more – we’ve got you covered. Many of these resources are completely free to registered athletes of the show so be sure to sign up early to get in on the added benefits and networking via our Private Facebook Group “Fit Show Prep 2026” for registered athletes ONLY!
Athlete registration, show details, and updates can be found throughout the website and on socials. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Fit Show — and give you an experience worthy of your hard work.
January 10, 2026
Whitney Wiser Savage
