Frederik Oldenburg, the charismatic host of Exatlón Estados Unidos, has offered a candid look into the intense physical and personal demands of leading one of Hispanic television’s most rigorous sports competitions. As the show celebrates its historic tenth season, Oldenburg shared exclusive insights into the commitment required to front a program that has profoundly impacted over 200 competitors and its dedicated production team.
For Oldenburg, the challenge extends far beyond simply looking good on screen. He admits that maintaining his energy levels through daily filming sessions, which often stretch from four to seven hours and sometimes involve double shifts, is paramount. "It’s not just about showing physical form; it’s the physical form of having energy," Oldenburg revealed, emphasizing the critical role of proper nutrition and sufficient rest. He warned that neglecting these essentials inevitably "takes its toll."
Since joining Exatlón Estados Unidos in its fourth season, Oldenburg’s life has undergone a significant transformation. He describes the experience as a "complete change" from the very beginning, acknowledging the immense public exposure he has gained. Fans now strongly associate him with the show, to which he proudly states he has "given his touch."
The host, naturally a night owl who enjoys reading and watching television late, faces a constant battle to align his body with the show’s demanding schedule. Prioritizing early bedtimes, morning workouts, healthy eating, and cooking becomes a daily challenge. Oldenburg stressed that starting a season poorly would lead to underperformance, stating, "If you start badly, after 15 chapters you don’t perform, much less reach chapter 60 in the best condition."
Among his most cherished memories are the live finals, a format adopted for the last four seasons after earlier ones were pre-recorded. "That for me is spectacular, because you know people are connected at that specific moment," he explained, highlighting the thrill of real-time viewership and the absence of spoilers as a key factor in their success.
Not all moments on the arena have been easy, however. Oldenburg vividly recalls the seventh season being devastated by Hurricane Fiona, which "brought us down" by destroying all the circuits and filming sets. The production halted for approximately a week and a half, during which the team engaged in social work. Telemundo purchased supplies, food, and clothing, distributing them to those who had lost their homes. This challenging period even inspired the creation of the "reconstruction circuit," built from the salvaged remnants of the destroyed sets. He described it as a "tremendous low, but very beautiful at the same time."
Oldenburg also values the unwavering support of his partner, Colombian actress Carmen Villalobos, who often joins him at the camp. "She’s always there enjoying herself," he shared, noting that it serves as a relaxing break for her after her own demanding filming schedule for shows like Top Chef VIP. Villalobos, he added, becomes deeply engrossed in the races, cheering and feeling like "one of the production team."
Addressing public speculation about their relationship, Oldenburg clarified that they currently have "no wedding plans," emphasizing that they are "on the same page and happy." Regarding the prospect of parenthood, he expressed a shared vision, praising Villalobos as "wonderful" and someone who "meets all the love requirements anyone could want."
With more than six seasons under his belt and now heading the tenth, Oldenburg promised that this installment will be "the new and fiercest" yet. He anticipates that "getting on stage for this tenth season will be something I will never forget."
The tenth season of Exatlón Estados Unidos is set to deliver extreme emotions and unprecedented challenges, featuring a mix of legendary athletes returning to the competition alongside new contenders. Audiences can catch Exatlón Estados Unidos on Telemundo starting Tuesday, December 2 at 7 pm ET/6 pm CT. Episodes will also be accessible via the Telemundo App, Peacock, and the official @TelemundoEntretenimiento YouTube channel.