As the world becomes increasingly sedentary, jobs that require you to be on your feet for long periods can be a welcome change. They provide an opportunity to stay active and healthy and can also be very rewarding in terms of providing a sense of purpose and accomplishment. However, active jobs also come with demands and challenges and can take a toll on your body.
Standing and walking for extended periods can cause pain and discomfort in your feet, legs, and lower back. Prolonged standing can also lead to varicose veins and poor leg circulation. But if you’re ready to escape the desk or cubicle lifestyle and choose an active career where you are paid to be on your feet, just ensure you invest in the right attire like lab coats and tools like anti-fatigue mats to maximize your comfort and health.
1. Nurses
Nurses are responsible for providing comprehensive care to patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare settings. They often have to walk and stand for long periods, typically working 12-hour shifts several days per week. They may also have to lift and move patients, which can be physically demanding.
Take regular breaks to stretch before, during, and after your shift. Yoga poses like the mountain pose, the seated spinal twist, and the cat-cow can relieve tension in your back and reduce fatigue in your legs.
Invest in high-quality comfortable medical scrubs that allow you to move freely. Look for men’s and women’s scrubs that come in a range of sizes for a custom fit for your body.
2. Construction Workers
Construction workers are responsible for building and maintaining structures, roads, and other infrastructure. Tasks include digging foundations; pouring concrete; framing; installing electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems; and operating heavy machinery and equipment.
When working in the construction industry, you often have to stand and walk on hard surfaces, such as concrete or dirt, and you may also have to climb ladders or scaffolding. The jobs can also involve heavy lifting and carrying of materials, which can strain back and shoulder muscles.
Support your body by incorporating regular exercise and stretching into your routine. Investing in comfortable and supportive shoes can also help alleviate pain and discomfort. However, many jobs sites have restrictions on the type of shoes you are permitted to wear. Purchase shoes or boots with steel or non-metallic composite toes. This protects your feet from injury from falling objects. You can improve the shoe’s comfort using gel soles or orthopedic inserts.
3. Teachers
Teachers are responsible for planning and delivering lessons, assessing student progress, and providing student support and guidance. Teachers may also prepare materials, and grade papers, and communicate with parents and other educators.
There are numerous ways you can protect your health and well-being. Purchase an ergonomic chair, like the Herman Miller Aeron Office Chair, to use in break rooms and classrooms that support your spine.
You can also buy supportive, comfortable shoes to prevent discomfort. Allbirds Wool Runners feature a cushioned sole for all-day comfort, plus they’re made with planet-friendly natural materials like Merino wool.
4. Waitstaff
The waitstaff is responsible for taking orders, delivering food, and maintaining the cleanliness of the dining area. Servers constantly move around, walking and carrying plates and trays, which can be tiring and demanding. Waitstaff often needs to be on their feet for 12 to 14 hours, especially if the restaurant is short-staffed.
Waitstaff can take steps to stay active and healthy by taking regular breaks to stretch and move around. Exercises to help reduce fatigue and muscular strain on the jobs include core exercises like the plank or mountain climbers and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
5. Hairdressers
Hairdressers are constantly on their feet, moving around the salon to cut, style, and color hair. The nature of the jobs also requires a lot of repetitive motions, such as cutting, which can cause strain on hands and wrists. Investing in comfortable shoes with good arch support and taking regular breaks can alleviate foot pain and leg fatigue.
For easy mobility, you can also buy a height-adjustable cutting stool, which typically features a contoured swiveling seat, footrests, and casters. This allows you to cut and style hair while seated. Consider an anti-fatigue mat for styles and hairdressing tasks that require you to remain standing. An anti-fatigue salon mat is made from thick polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride that cushions your feet.
6. House Cleaners
House cleaners are on their feet for much of the day, cleaning and organizing homes and commercial spaces. You may have to lift and carry heavy cleaning supplies and equipment like industrial vacuums. The nature of the jobs also requires bending, twisting, and reaching motions, which can strain the spine.
7. Sales Representative
Sales representatives promote and sell products or services to potential customers. Reps often travel between stores and clients to promote products and renew accounts. Sales reps are often required to wear business casual attire to present a professional appearance. This may mean wearing shoes like Derbys, oxfords, or loafers, which do not offer adequate support for your feet. Reps may also need to carry product samples, leading to increased strain on the body.
You can protect yourself as a sales rep by purchasing ergonomic shoes from brands like Clarks or Ecco, which feature foam midsoles and rubberized soles for shock absorption. You can also buy a rolling cart, like the MobileRep RepRoller, which features insulated, padded walls to protect your products and numerous compartments for holding brochures and business cards.
Support Your Physical Health On-the-Jobs
An active career can be gratifying and prevent many health issues accompanying a sedentary lifestyle. However, it is crucial to take care of yourself when working a job that requires long periods spent on your feet. Self-care, ergonomic equipment, and high-quality shoes and apparel are critical to your job performance and satisfaction.
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