The hunt is on for Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2024
© Telling Photography Ltd Back for 2024, Farmers Weekly’s annual Britain’s Fittest Farmer competition is now open for entries.
The contest, which champions the mental and physical wellbeing of the nation’s farmers, aims to spark vital conversations about how we can all stay fit to farm, and bring the community together in the spirit of friendly competition.
The event is open to farmers and those working in the wider agricultural industry over the age of 18, and all abilities are welcome.
See also: Former Britain’s Fittest Farmer champ gives top tips
There are four categories to enter:
- Men under 40
- Women under 40
- Men over 40
- Women over 40
The first stage commences with three qualifier rounds across the UK, at the Lincolnshire Show, the Royal Highland Show, and a location in Wales, where you can put your speed, stamina and strength to the test in a series of challenges designed by fitness guru Tom Kemp and his Farm Fitness team.
From this round, the finalists will be selected to proceed to the next stage of the competition. The four winners will scoop a £1,000 cash prize in the September finale.
How to enter
To enter the competition, visit the Britain’s Fittest Farmer website and upload a photo or short video of yourself showing how you stay fit on the farm.
You will also find full details on the website, including key dates and terms and conditions.
In your application, remember to tell us about how you champion mental and physical wellbeing in your life, and leave your contact details so we can get in touch.
Dairy farmer proves you’re never too old to start your fitness journey
Somerset dairy farmer Trevor Brice is urging fellow farmers to get started on their fitness journey and to take their physical health seriously.
Trevor, 62, recently lost 8st 8lbs to achieve his target healthy weight, after admitting to falling into a negative relationship with food and exercise.
When circumstances beyond his control led to his family selling their sheep and cattle, Trevor says that he hit an “all time low”.
At his lowest point, he felt house-bound, and was moving around so little that he worried about his ability to get into his tractor.
His passion for animals, however, provided motivation for Trevor to push himself to rebuild his herd – and with it, his health.
“We can’t hide in bed for days because the cows need us every day,” he says.
“Working as a farmer involves long, tiring hours and I knew that my weight was only making it harder. I knew it was time to make a change.”
“I know that the farming industry comes with its challenges, but that’s why it’s so important for us to support each other.
“We are the backbone of the country and it’s key for us to be in the best health we can possibly be, both physically and mentally.”
Trevor received support and help with his weight loss from the advisers at Cambridge Weight Plan, who encouraged him to take up The 1:1 Diet.
This, he says, has complemented his efforts to stay active on the farm with his re-established herd.
“I want to use my success to advocate for others to sit up and take notice of their mental health and obesity,” Trevor explains.
“They often come hand in hand, and it can have a draining effect on lives. I’ll never put my weight back on because I have this life now.”