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March 24, 2009
Working... and Working Out
Slinging a tool pouch on at the beginning of the day probably means you lead a physical life.
Who'd argue that climbing ladders, rolling joists, or breaking down a deck package isn't an "active" lifestyle? But working, to me, is waaaaay different than working out. And working out is a key component in staying healthy for work.
I've heard carpenters say "I moved half a house today!" why in tarnation would I exercise?!?!?!
Lots of reasons. Mine is: I feel better. (Note: though I'm writing from my personal experience, I'm not a personal trainer or doctor, so this is my opinion only).
See, for me, exercise (running, riding a bike, playing racquetball) consumes energy in a different way than nailing off plywood or crown. Sustained physical activity makes me sweat--intensely. Unlike building, it burns every single calorie of the Ho-Ho I ate at lunch and purges the toxins in the coffee or beer from the day before.
And, it's a mental break. Chasing a rubber ball around a racquetball court or pushing through a run requires 100% of my brain's bandwidth. I can't agonize about hip rafters or estimates. In pushing myself toward some meaningless goal -- Note: Nike www.Nike.com is NOT calling to sponsor me--I actually get something meaningful, purging my body and brain.
Getting started -- or getting started again, where I (achingly) find myself -- is hard. But it's worth it, both as part of the poetry of a well-lived life and as a tool that helps me be more profitable. And, sane.
The "New Year's Resolution" hubbub has faded. So I hope if exercise is (or was) on your mind that this helps you stare down the treadmill or bust-out a walk or get your tennis racquet re-strung. I also hope you share what your health tips for mind, body and work.
Mark Clement is a remodeler and is the author of The Carpenter's Notebook, A Novel.
You can also visit Mark's website at FormalFarmHouse.com.
Posted by Mark Clement at March 24, 2009 10:54 AM
Comments
Mark,
As someone who is old (44) for this industry but new to it and a former personal trainer, I could not agree with you more. I have had many 'physical' jobs but they do not keep you fit for the job. One of the things I concentrate on is my 'core' muscles which are basically the abs and torso and having aerobic exercise as a mainstay. These are two areas that rarely get 'worked' in the course of my physical jobs but essential to staying on the job.
Thanks for a great article!
Posted by: David Wanderman at March 24, 2009 6:59 PM
