2016 WORLD WIFE CARRYING SPORTS COMPETITION IN FINLAND

Putting relationships to the test takes on a whole new meaning at these races, where a husband has to complete a gruelling obstacle course while carrying his wife.

Men from across the globe sprinted along a track with their other halves clinging unto their backs at this year's Wife Carrying World Championships.

Taking place in Sonkajaervi, Finland, competitors can even 'borrow' a wife from their neighbour.

Couples travelled from Japan, America and Russia to try to run their way to victory in the bizarre competition.

According to the rules, runners can compete with their own wife or somebody else's, and she must be at least 17 years old. 

The minimum weight of the wife is 7st 10lbs (49 kilos) - if she is lighter, she has to strap on a heavy rucksack until she reaches the desired minimum weight.

And if a competitor drops his companion, he has to lift her back unto his back and continue racing.

The track is around 250 metres long and has two dry obstacles and one water obstacle about a metre deep.

The winners of the competition are the pair who completes the course in the quickest time.

But there are also prizes for the most entertaining couple, the best costume and the strongest carrier.

The Wife Carrying World Championships are held in Sonkajaervi, Finland, every year.

The official website even has a section on how to become an expert wife carrier.

Attitude, carrying styles and outfits are all deemed important factors in deciding whether somebody is a 'master' at the sport.

It writes: 'There are four customary styles to carry the wife: the traditional piggyback, the wife dangling upside down on the carrier’s back, thrown over on the shoulder and crosswise on the carrier’s shoulders. 

'The style is free. You may also create a new personal style of your own.'

It adds: 'It is possible to train for the wife carrying competition everywhere in the middle of the daily routines: in the bath, in the super market, in the playground or in the body building centre.  

The organizers insist that, 'The wife carrying is good for your relationship.'