Video: Could you be Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2021?

British agriculture’s hit health and wellbeing series is back for a fresh round of friendly competition, getting the nation’s farmers talking about their mental and physical health.

Applications for Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2021 are now open to anyone who is aged 18 or over and works in UK agriculture.

We’re looking to crown one man and one woman who prove themselves to be admirable ambassadors of health and wellbeing, with a much-coveted trophy and £1,000 cash prize up for grabs for each winner.

See also: Meet Britain’s Fittest Farmers 2020 – Emma Ashley and James Arney

This is a competition designed to encourage a vital discussion about the physical and mental health of our farmers in a fun and friendly atmosphere.

Watch the teaser video below.

As a proudly inclusive competition aimed at encouraging everyone working in the farming sector to think more proactively about their health, we are pleased to accept entries from right across the industry.

We’re talking about dairy farmworkers, shearers, contractors, farm vets, agricultural students and the many farmers of all ages and backgrounds who love to get stuck in.

“What makes this competition so unique is the people who get involved each year,” says Farmers Weekly‘s community editor and judge Oli Hill.

“We love the enthusiasm and encouragement that competitors show for each other, not just at the events but on social media, too. The stories and advice that farmers share throughout the competition are heart-warming and powerful.

“It’s the farming community at its very best, uniting to have a great time while supporting and advancing an important cause.”

See also: Video and photos from the Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2020 qualifiers

You don’t have to be an agricultural athlete worthy of the Olympics to take part, just have an interest in keeping fit and looking after yourself.

Fellow judge Tom Kemp, an Essex farmer’s son and personal trainer with an outdoor gym on the family farm, says he’s excited to be judging this year’s competition.

“I’m looking forward to seeing who’s been sowing their seeds and harvesting those gains over the past year. Only two can be crowned the 2021 champions – who is it going to be?” he says.

Tom Kemp, Farm Fitness

How to apply

Getting involved this year is simple. Just go to the Britain’s Fittest Farmer website to submit your application. Don’t forget to read the full terms and conditions.

All you need to do is fill in a form that outlines who you are, the role you play in UK agriculture, how you like to keep in shape and how you promote a positive mental mindset in yourself and others.

Last year’s winners, James Arney and Emma Ashley © MAG/Colin Miller

You’ll also need to upload a video or photo of yourself. This should either show how you like to stay physically fit or briefly explain why mental wellbeing is important to you.

Take a look at some of the previous applications to get an idea of what we’re looking for.

What happens next

After you’ve entered online, why not tell your friends and family and encourage them to get stuck in too?

After making sure you meet the judging criteria, you’ll be invited to show us what you’ve capable of by competing in a qualifier event to be held later this year.

© MAG/Tom Askew-Miller

This will be your shot at reaching the final stages of the competition – facing a series of tough physical challenges designed to test your speed, strength and stamina.

From this first round, we’ll be selecting 10 men and 10 women to proceed to the final stages of the competition. See coverage of last year’s qualifier event to find out what’s in store.

We’ll also be sharing workouts and wellbeing tips with judge and Farm Fitness founder Tom Kemp over the coming months for inspiration and to help you stay motivated.

Check out last year’s Farm Fit exercise series to get you started. Use the hashtag #BritainsFittestFarmer on social media to keep us updated on your training.