A recent study has uncovered that one particular occupation excels in physical fitness within the industry. The research, conducted among 1,000 tradespeople, evaluated various elements such as the frequency of lifting heavy objects, daily step counts, consumption of nutritious meals, and engagement in physical activities outside of work. Points were allocated based on lifestyle behaviors across these categories and then tallied up for comparison.
Although plumbers secured the second position and were most inclined to perceive themselves as physically fit, there was a standout winner among the trades. This profession not only recorded the highest daily step count but also allocated the most time to exercise outside of work, establishing them as the undisputed fittest group in the industry.
The study identified landscapers as the victors, scoring 34 points. Individuals in this sector accumulate an average of 12,274 steps daily and dedicate 114 minutes each week to exercising outside of their working hours.
Carpenters ranked third overall, showcasing consistent performance without excelling in a single category. They averaged 10,995 steps and lifted around 16 heavy objects per day. On the contrary, painters and decorators were identified as the least physically active, managing only 13 points.
Commissioned by Citroën, known for its electric van lineup featuring the ë-Berlingo, the research was conducted in collaboration with England Athletics.
Greg Taylor, Managing Director of Citroën UK, emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially in occupations demanding significant physical exertion. He highlighted the significance of having a comfortable van for rest during work hours, stressing the importance of dietary choices and activities around work to enhance overall performance.
The study further revealed that bricklayers lift the highest number of heavy objects daily, averaging 26, yet ranked fifth in overall fitness due to lower scores in self-perceived fitness, daily step count, and exercise outside of work.
Despite 88% acknowledging their profession as physically demanding, 77% expressed satisfaction with the physical nature of their work. However, 71% reported sustaining injuries due to workplace demands, with the back, arms, and knees being the most commonly affected body parts.
Conducted through OnePoll.com, the research unveiled that the typical tradesperson covers 140 miles weekly driving for work and spends four hours per week sitting in their van. Among the key considerations when selecting a vehicle, reliability ranked highest, followed by price and comfort.
To utilize their van time effectively, 33% of tradespeople would consider storing dumbbells in their vehicle for fitness maintenance, while 28% favored resistance bands.
Greg Taylor from Citroën UK highlighted the fitness challenges associated with spending extended periods in a van and encouraged tradespeople to use this time productively by incorporating fitness equipment. He advised caution in managing loads to prevent injuries from excessive lifting.
