Landscapers are officially the fittest of all tradespeople, according to a recent study of 1,000 UK tradies.
The research looked at steps walked, heavy items lifted, meals eaten, and exercise outside work. Lifestyle points were awarded across each category, with garden groomers topping the chart with 34 points.
On average, landscapers walk 12,274 steps a day and spend 114 minutes exercising outside of work—the highest of any trade.
Which trades come out on top?
Plumbers came in second with 32 points, and were most likely to consider themselves fit (80 per cent). Carpenters completed the podium with 25 points, averaging 10,995 steps and lifting 16 heavy items daily, but didn't top any category.
In contrast, painters and decorators were deemed the least fit, scoring just 13 points overall. Bricklayers lift the most heavy items (26 per day) but rank fifth overall due to lower self-rated fitness (62 per cent), daily steps (9,700), and outside exercise (93 minutes).
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The study also found that 88 per cent of tradespeople view their work as physically demanding, with 77 per cent enjoying the physicality. However, 71 per cent admitted to work-related injuries, with backs (52 per cent), arms (35 per cent), and knees (30 per cent) most affected.
Life on the tools and in the van
Tradespeople spend an average of 140 miles per week driving for work, plus four hours in their van. Reliability (61 per cent), price (56 per cent), and comfort (51 per cent) top their list when choosing a vehicle.
Citroën UK, which commissioned the research, suggested keeping dumbbells or resistance bands in vans to make use of idle time. Greg Taylor, MD of Citroën UK, said: "Being stuck in your van can bring fitness challenges. Having equipment gives you the chance to use time productively, but it's important not to risk injuries by lifting too much."
He added: "Lifting heavy items and doing continuous steps is part and parcel of life on the tools. A healthy lifestyle around work ensures you put your best foot forward every day."
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