Free farmer exercise and health education programme launched
Farmers across the country are being encouraged to sign up for a free eight-week exercise and health education programme.
The ‘Prime Time of Life for Farmers’ programme is designed to improve fitness, strength, balance, mobility, health and wellbeing.
The programme, open to both male and female farmers, welcomes participants of all ages and fitness levels, including complete beginners.
Those living with clinical conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, osteopenia, osteoporosis and more are also welcome to join.
Farmers
The programme is fully funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), and supported by Laois County Council, Laois Sports Partnership and Laois Local Community Safety Partnership.
As part of the programme farmers are encouraged to complete two exercise classes or videos and watch one health masterclass per week.
Due to unpredictable schedules and physical demands of farm work, farmers can take part entirely online, in person at Mountrath Martial Arts and Fitness Academy, or through a flexible combination of both.
Programme
Dr. Diane Cooper, clinical exercise physiologist, health researcher, and chief executive of EduFIT, said the ‘Prime Time of Life’ programme is "scientifically proven to improve fitness, strength, balance, flexibility, and overall quality of life".
"We have delivered this programme multiple times across Ireland since 2020 with consistently positive outcomes, backed by published research.
"We have tailored this new version specifically for farmers.
"Research in Ireland consistently highlights that a high number of farmers experience chronic aches, pains, and musculoskeletal issues, and we know that multimodal exercise is essential for treating and managing these conditions.
"Knowledge is power, which is why we give participants direct access to health education masterclasses delivered by me and the EduFIT team of experts.
"We will cover important topics in a practical, easy-to-understand manner including muscle and joint health, nutrition, cardiovascular and metabolic health, giving farmers the exact tools they need to protect their health for the long haul," Dr Cooper said.
The programme will begin on Monday, August 10, 2026.
As places are limited, farmers are encouraged to register early on the EduFIT website to secure their spot.
