Maintaining health and physical fitness are important to many people, and the requirements here are often a bit different for those who work in physically demanding fields like contracting. While many of the daily tasks performed in these roles are physical in nature and help contractors stay in shape in natural ways, ensuring both health and proper physical fitness within these tasks is very important.
At Contractors School, we’re here to help contractors around Utah with all their needs, from starting a business or managing their existing one to many nuanced areas like these. Both in terms of staying in shape and keeping your body protected from the heavy demands of this kind of career, here are some ways to stay healthy as a contractor.
Stretching
One of the single most important things a contractor can do is to stretch before and after each day of work. By doing dynamic stretches in the morning, you’ll be warming up your muscles and helping them work properly throughout your day. Afterward, static stretching will help cool down your body and make sure that your muscles don’t get too tight or sore from being overexerted.
Without stretching, you face some major health risks, from pulled muscles to more serious injuries like hernias and back strains. Make sure you always take the time to stretch before and after work, no matter how rushed you are!
Hydration
Another important part of being a healthy contractor is staying hydrated throughout your day. Since so much of the energy in this profession comes from physical labor, it’s essential to make sure you’re drinking enough fluids throughout the day. Not only will this help power your body as you work, but it’ll also help flush out toxins and keep your muscles from becoming too fatigued.
Nutrition
Down related lines, making sure you’re eating well is also key for staying healthy and fit as a contractor. It’s tempting to just grab the first snack available, but taking the time to pack a nutritious lunch will help keep your energy up throughout the day and ensure that your body is getting all the vitamins and minerals it needs.
For instance, many contractors opt for a high-protein diet that helps provide quick energy and sustained endurance, as well as plenty of fruits and vegetables to get essential vitamins without the added sugar. No matter what kind of diet you prefer, make sure it is balanced and provides your body with the nutrition it needs to keep up with your physically demanding job.
Yoga or Other Relaxation Exercises
Contracting can be both physically demanding and mentally stressful, and it takes its toll on your body. Finding ways to relax and take a break from the day’s work can be just as important as taking steps to stay fit for the job.
Yoga is a great way to do this, as it combines physical stretching with mental relaxation techniques. Not only will it help you in your active hours, but it will also help you wind down and de-stress after work.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is another essential part of keeping healthy as a contractor. With the physical demands of your job, it’s easy to crash early at night without realizing it – but it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough rest. Set aside time each day to rest and recharge, as well as a minimum amount of sleep per night. This will help make sure you’re alert and energized during the day, while avoiding fatigue and exhaustion.
Resistance Exercises
Whether you’re looking to build strength for your job or just stay in shape, resistance exercises are a great way to do both. Whether it’s weightlifting, calisthenics, yoga, Pilates, or any other kind of physical activity that requires you to push and pull against something else, these kinds of exercises will help you build up strength for the rigors of contracting.
These are especially helpful if you’re looking to increase your strength and endurance over time, since they help build long-term fitness rather than just providing short-term energy boosts.
By taking the time to focus on these health and fitness tips, contractors can make sure they stay healthy while reaping all of the rewards that come with their career. By following these tips, you can ensure that you remain healthy and fit to take on any job – no matter how physically demanding it may be.
At Contractors School, we strive to provide contractors with the education and resources they need to succeed in their career. Contact us today to learn about any of our courses or resources for contractors around Utah.
