New research has revealed the fittest (and least fit) tradespeople in the UK
New research reveals that one profession stands out as the fittest in the industry. A survey of 1,000 tradespeople assessed factors such as the number of heavy items lifted daily, step counts, healthy meals eaten, and exercise done outside of work. Lifestyle points were awarded across these categories and then totalled.
While plumbers claimed the runner-up spot -and were the most likely to consider themselves physically fit – there was one clear winner. This trade not only logged the highest daily step count but also dedicated the most time to exercise outside of work, making them the undisputed fittest on the job.
According to the research, landscapers emerged victorious with 34 points. Workers in this field clock up 12,274 daily steps and spend 114 minutes per week exercising outside of work.
Rounding out the top three were carpenters who didn’t triumph in any single category but averaged 10,995 steps and hoisted 16 heavy objects daily. Conversely, painters and decorators were branded the least physically active, managing just 13 points.
Citroën, which boasts a completely electric van lineup including the ë-Berlingo, commissioned the study as part of its collaboration with England Athletics.
Greg Taylor, MD, Citroën UK, said: “Lifting heavy items and doing continuous steps is part and parcel of life on the tools.
“Ensuring you live a healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, but it carries greater importance when the demands of your work require so much physical exertion. This is why having a comfortable van to rest in during the working day is important.
“By taking care of what we eat and do around work, you can make sure that you are putting your best foot forward when it comes to work.”
The research revealed bricklayers haul the most heavy objects daily with an average of 26 – yet place fifth for overall fitness after recording the poorest scores for self-perceived fitness (62%), daily steps (9,700), and exercise beyond work hours (93 minutes weekly).
Results showed 88% regard their profession as ‘physically demanding’, yet 77% expressed they enjoy the physical nature of their role.
However, it’s not entirely positive as 71% have sustained injuries from workplace demands – with backs (52%), arms (35%), and knees (30%) being the most frequently affected body parts.
The research, carried out through OnePoll.com, discovered the typical tradesperson travels 140 miles weekly driving for work and spends four hours per week sitting in their van.
Reliability is the most important thing they look for in their car, along with price and comfort.
To make productive use of their van time, 33% would contemplate storing dumbbells in their vehicle to maintain fitness, whilst 28% would opt for resistance bands.
Greg Taylor from Citroën UK added: “Being stuck to the confines of your van can bring various fitness challenges. By having the equipment in your van, it can give you the opportunity to use the wasted time more productively and keep fit.
“With that said, it is important to manage the load, you don’t want to be forcing injuries because you were lifting too much.”
TOP EIGHT FITTEST TRADES:
- Landscaper – 34 points
- Plumber – 32 points
- Carpenter – 25 points
- Plasterer – 20 points
- Bricklayer – 19 points
- General builder – 19 points
- Electrician – 18 points
- Painter & Decorator – 13 points