Farmers encouraged to ‘Move More, Farm Better’ ahead of Men’s Health Week 2026

HSE South West is urging male farmers across the region to take simple steps to protect their health, as part of a new campaign launched in advance of Men’s Health Week 2026, which runs from 15-21 June.

Farming is one of the most physically demanding occupations, yet many farmers experience ongoing pain and reduced mobility. Research shows that up to 40% of farmers experience back pain at any one time, while musculoskeletal issues can significantly impact their ability to work. Also, despite the physical nature of farming, many farmers still do not meet recommended physical activity levels for health.

The ‘Move More Farm Better’ campaign, developed by HSE South West Health Promotion and Improvement, in collaboration with Primary Care Physiotherapy services and agricultural partners, highlights practical ways farmers can stay strong, reduce injury risk and continue farming safely for longer.

Clare Deasy, Health Promotion Officer, HSE South West said:

“Farmers are the backbone of our rural communities, but many accept pain and injury as part of the job. The Move More Farm Better campaign includes a booklet and videos to encourages farmers to take small, practical steps to protect their health - so they can continue farming safely and enjoy a better quality of life.”

Local farmers involved in the initiative also highlight the importance of prevention and balance. One West Cork dairy farmer shared that earlier action and better awareness could have helped prevent his long-term shoulder issues.

The guidance focuses on simple, realistic changes farmers can integrate into their daily routines, including:

• Improving lifting techniques
• Reducing strain from repetitive tasks
• Incorporating regular movement and strengthening exercises
• Seeking early advice for aches and pains

Farmer Charlie McCarthy, from Rossmore, Clonakilty said:

“I am farming over 50 years and it is only as I have gotten older that I have started to pay attention to the aches and pains. I thought being active on the farm was enough for keep me fit and strong but now I try to go for walks most days outside of farm work.”

The ‘Move More, Farm Better’ booklet also include physiotherapy-led guidance on:

• Safe lifting and handling techniques
• Reducing shoulder and back strain
• Adjusting work practices to improve ergonomics
• The importance of appropriate footwear and equipment

Mary O’Donovan, Chartered Physiotherapist with HSE Primary Care Services, advises that taking the time to assess and manage loads correctly will help musculoskeletal health vastly in the long term.

“Try to keep loads as close to your body when lifting or carrying. Work at waist height where possible; this may mean adjusting load heights using machinery and adjusting platforms. Limit overhead work, as this increases the likelihood of developing shoulder, neck and back pain.

“For dairy farmers, a major consideration is the weight of your clusters (part of milking machinery). Cluster weight can vary from 1.6 to 3.5kg. This 2kg variance isn’t significant in a single load but considering the nature of milking twice a day, up to 300 days of the year, it has a huge impact on shoulder health and function in the long term.”

The campaign also encourages farmers to maintain interests outside of farming and prioritise overall wellbeing – key messages for men generally as part of Men’s Health Week.

Men’s Health Week provides an opportunity to shine a light on the health challenges faced by men, including those in rural and farming communities, who may delay seeking help. This year’s theme is ‘One Step at a Time – progress not perfection’ and is encouraging people to build healthy habits gradually.

To request a copy of the ‘Move More, Farm Better’ booklet, contact Clare.Deasy@hse.ie