Turf Games
Turf Games has rapidly ascended from its modest beginnings to become a cornerstone of the global functional fitness community. What started as a local initiative in London has blossomed into an international series of events, uniting athletes from diverse backgrounds in a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and shared passion. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the origins of Turf Games, trace its evolution, detail the array of events it hosts worldwide, and examine the impressive levels of participation and spectatorship it commands.
The Inception of Turf Games
The genesis of Turf Games can be traced back to 2018, when Australian expatriate Andrew Manteit identified a gap in London’s fitness landscape. Having a rich history in team sports like cricket and rugby league, Manteit recognised the absence of platforms that fostered social interaction among fitness enthusiasts. He envisioned an event that would not only challenge participants physically but also cultivate a sense of community. This vision materialised into the first Turf Games event, which Manteit described as “a chance for people who trained regularly in gyms to feel part of something, have a goal to work towards and train for.”
The inaugural event was intimate, featuring a select number of teams engaging in friendly yet competitive workouts. The emphasis was on inclusivity, ensuring that individuals of varying fitness levels could participate without feeling overwhelmed. This foundational philosophy of teamwork and hard work resonated deeply with participants, setting the stage for Turf Games’ subsequent expansion.
Evolution into a Global Phenomenon
Following its successful debut, Turf Games experienced exponential growth. The initial London-based competitions garnered significant attention, leading to increased participation and the introduction of more structured events. By 2022, the Winter Festival held at London’s iconic Printworks venue attracted over 2,000 athletes, underscoring the event’s burgeoning popularity.
Recognising the universal appeal of its format, Turf Games embarked on international expansion. The “Fittest in the City” series emerged as a hallmark event, challenging teams in fast-paced, back-to-back workouts within condensed competition windows. This format not only tested physical endurance but also strategic planning and teamwork, making it a favourite among participants and spectators alike. The 2024 schedule for the "Turf Games Fittest in the City" event includes various cities, providing ample opportunities for fitness enthusiasts to participate.
A Global Array of Events
As of 2025, Turf Games boasts a diverse calendar of events spanning multiple continents. Each event is meticulously designed to cater to different fitness levels and preferences, ensuring inclusivity and broad appeal.
• Winter Festival: Traditionally held in February in the UK, this event marks the commencement of the Turf Games calendar. The 2025 edition is scheduled for 15th and 16th February at the Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that offers an ideal setting for large-scale fitness competitions. Teams will compete across Elite, Intermediate, and Everyday divisions, with mixed teams of six (three males and three females).
• Fittest in the City (FITC) Series: This dynamic series takes place throughout the year in various cities worldwide. The FITC format is a fast-paced, waterfall-style competition where teams of four (male, female, or mixed) compete in back-to-back workouts across a 95-minute window. In 2025, FITC events are scheduled in:
• Brisbane: 1st and 2nd February
• Dubai: 21st and 22nd February
• Sydney: 29th and 30th March
• Glasgow: 29th March
These events challenge athletes across various aspects of fitness in a fun, competitive format, fostering camaraderie and community spirit.
• Summer Festival: A flagship event traditionally hosted in London during June; the Summer Festival attracts a diverse array of participants. The 2025 edition is slated for 21st and 22nd June, promising an exhilarating blend of competition and festivity. Participants can expect team-based workouts across different divisions, complemented by a festival village featuring food, drinks, and exhibitors.
• Training Days: Throughout the year, Turf Games hosts various training sessions at gyms and locations around the world. These sessions are open to all, providing opportunities for individuals to hone their skills, receive tips from world-class trainers and ambassadors, and experience the incredible Turf Games community first-hand.
Participation and Spectatorship
The inclusive nature of Turf Games has been pivotal in its widespread appeal. Events are designed to accommodate athletes of varying abilities, from seasoned fitness enthusiasts to newcomers seeking a challenge. This inclusivity has translated into impressive participation numbers.
While exact figures fluctuate depending on the event and location, major festivals like the UK Winter Festival and the London Summer Festival routinely attract thousands of athletes. For instance, the 2022 Winter Festival at Printworks London saw over 2,000 athletes compete.
Spectator engagement is equally noteworthy. The dynamic and team-oriented nature of the competitions makes for an engaging viewing experience, drawing substantial crowds. The community-centric atmosphere, combined with the thrill of the events, ensures that spectators are not merely passive observers but active participants in the overall experience.
The Essence of Turf Games
At its core, Turf Games embodies the spirit of community and shared endeavour. It transcends the traditional boundaries of fitness competitions by prioritising teamwork, inclusivity, and personal growth. As Manteit aptly stated, “I wanted to build a fitness comp that everybody could do – no super high skilled movements – just teamwork and hard work!”
This philosophy has not only attracted a diverse range of participants but has also fostered a global community united by a shared passion for fitness and mutual support.