So you are now in the workforce and want to stay fit. Working as a tradesman can mean that you will often be carrying out physical tasks for most of the working day. This means that being fit will be a huge advantage. There are certain things that you need to be aware of when it comes to fitness and some of these are described in more detail below.
Tradespeople Still Need Additional Exercise
Although tradespeople are active every day at work, this is not the same as taking regular exercise. The work that a tradesman does may be very repetitive which means that it will only be one type of exercise that you are getting. For example, if you are always carrying heavy loads or using power tools you be increasing your strength in your upper body but nowhere else. You should be thinking about the type of exercise you do at work and then concentrate on other areas in your spare time.
It can be a good idea to concentrate on cardiovascular exercises such as running when you are away from the site as this will help to build up your stamina. You could also consider exercises that would strengthen your core such as yoga.
Avoid Sitting For Long periods
As a tradesperson, you are lucky enough to have a job that requires physical activity. However, if you are a sole operator you may have other tasks like bookkeeping or marketing your business. If you are not trained in these areas you may find that they take a long time. In this case, you may want to outsource your tradesman business marketing activities or bookkeeping and accounting tasks.
Pay Attention To What You Are Eating
You may find that when you are working, you just need to grab something quick to eat to satisfy your hunger. However, you still need to consider whether the food you have chosen will contain the nutrition that you need. Fast food may be convenient, but it is likely to contain a lot of fat and calories, without providing much nutritious value. You may want to consider bringing a healthier lunch from home.
You also need to make sure that you are getting enough fluids during the day, and water is the best choice for something to drink. You should take a drink regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until you are thirsty.
Take Care Of Yourself In The Sun
Tradesmen are often outdoors in the sun. If you work outdoors for long periods, then you will need to protect yourself from the sun. Overexposure to the sun can lead to you getting burnt or becoming dehydrated. Continued exposure to the sun can also make it more likely that you will develop skin cancer.
Whenever you are working outside you should try to cover up as much as possible. This can be difficult when it is a hot day but if any of your skin is exposed to the sun, then you should apply sun-screen.
Drink Alcohol In Moderation And Avoid Drugs
For many tradesmen, it can be a habit to go for a drink after you have all finished work. This is not necessarily an issue as long as you don’t drink too heavily. Drugs should also be avoided.
Alcohol and drugs can make you drowsy and this can affect your ability to operate machinery. They can also affect your judgment and your ability to make decisions that have the potential to put you and your workmates in danger.