Overcoming Challenges of Physically Demanding Jobs
Working in a physically demanding job can be grueling and challenging, but it doesn’t have to be unbearable for those who take the time to prepare for the job and begin taking the proper steps for staying healthy throughout the duration of employment.
Stretching
Perhaps the most important step for those in physically demanding jobs is stretching. Stretching can help you stay limber, alert and less prone to injuries. Try a few stretches before engaging in strenuous activity, shortly after lunch and then at the end of the day.
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- Cat-Cow Stretch – Start on all fours, shoulders stacked above your wrists and hips above knees. Inhale to sweep your gaze and chest up while allowing your belly to dip down. Exhale to draw your chin to your chest and round your mid-spine.
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- Cobra Pose – Lie face down and slide your feet hip width apart. Place your hands on either side of your chest, press into your hands and begin to gently lift your chest off the ground.
Take plenty of breaks
Another step to remember when dealing with physically demanding jobs is taking enough breaks. It’s important to give your body time to recover and get out of the same position or stance. A way to remember to take breaks is to choose a work-specific action and make it a point to take breaks each time you finish the action. By making stretching and taking breaks apart of your daily routine you can help strengthen your body and increase productivity.
Avoid injury & Burnout
Pay attention to your body to help avoid injuries. Don’t overdo it when your body is telling you to slow down. Working in a physically demanding job can lead to exhaustion and if left unaddressed it can result in injuries and burnout. Taking the time to create a balance between work and recovery is key. Set realistic goals that can be achieved in increments, focus on success and take plenty of breaks.