Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2025: Qualifiers begin on 18 June

The wait is almost over – the first of three Britain’s Fittest Farmer qualifier events kicks off on 18 June at the Lincolnshire Show.

This is your chance to step up, showcase your strength, and put your fitness to the test.

If you can’t make it to Lincolnshire, don’t worry.

The Great Yorkshire Show on 8 July and the Royal Welsh Show on 24 July will also host qualifiers, giving farmers across the UK multiple chances to compete.

See also: Tips for farm fitness from last year’s Britain’s Fittest Farmer winner

Robert Hunter-Shaw at BFF qualifiers in Lincoln © MAG/Colin Miller

Britain’s Fittest Farmer (BFF), now in its eighth year, is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of mental and physical wellbeing for farmers.

The competition welcomes participants from all backgrounds in agriculture, and with categories for male and female competitors both under and over 40, it’s an event for all ages.

Each category winner will take home £1,000, so there’s plenty of incentive to bring your best to the challenge.

This annual event, hosted by Farmers Weekly, encourages conversations about staying fit for farming, an industry where physical and mental health are often overlooked.

As farming becomes more mechanised and office-based, it’s crucial for farmers to maintain their fitness and wellbeing.

Which category?

There are four categories to enter:

  • Men under 40
  • Women under 40
  • Men over 40
  • Women over 40

Lizzie Phipps © MAG/Colin Miller

Mental health

This year’s charity partner, The Farming Community Network (FCN), plays a vital role in supporting farmers and their families.

With its confidential helpline and FarmWell resources, FCN offers essential support for individuals and businesses in the farming community.

Alex Phillimore, head of communications and development at FCN, says: “FCN is delighted to once again be supporting the Farmers Weekly BFF competition.

“BFF’s strong focus on mental health and wellbeing is an important part of the competition and complements FCN’s FarmWell activity – helping to encourage a positive outlook and support farmers’ health and wellbeing.”

The BFF competition aims to highlight the importance of looking after both body and mind, and it offers a chance to build camaraderie and connect with others in the farming community.

“There are strong links between physical health and mental health, and during this challenging time in farming, it is important we continue to look after ourselves and those around us and come together as a community,” says Alex.

“BFF is welcoming of everyone in the sector – it is a great opportunity to socialise and uplift one another, and we encourage people to get involved.”

Open to anyone over 18 years old working in the agricultural sector, the competition is inclusive and caters for a variety of fitness levels.

Whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned competitor, this is your opportunity to challenge yourself, improve your fitness, and enjoy some friendly competition.

So mark your calendars, lace up your trainers, and get ready to compete in Britain’s Fittest Farmer 2025.

How to enter

  • Head over to the Britain’s Fittest Farmer website, and upload a photo or short video of yourself
  • Select the qualifier venue and the category that you are entering
  • Remember to tell us about how you stay mentally and physically fit for farming, and what makes you a great ambassador for the industry
  • Don’t forget to add your contact details so we can get in touch.

Sponsors

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Workplace Bereavement

 

Charity partners