Working out with a physically demanding job

[mac520]

I recently began daily physical work. At the end of the day, I have no energy left to go to the gym; I just want to sit down and relax the rest of the evening. How do people do it? Do they work out in the morning so that they're always fresh? Is going to the gym even necessary to maintain physical health if I am working with my body for 8 hours every day? I wouldn't expect a farmer to need to lift weights to stay in shape; he gets enough from his job, right?

[KnownUnknown]

As you said, you recently started this new job. Get use to the job the same way you get use to a workout.

[ironwill2008]

I wouldn't expect a farmer to need to lift weights to stay in shape; he gets enough from his job, right?

Maybe; maybe not.

[Jeremy-D]

I work 10 hour days in construction. I get up at 4am and do my lifting. I just changed to this about a month ago I used to do it after work. Best thing I ever did was switching to a morning workout. Its a great feeling knowing when I get home the night is all mine to do what I want.

[mrvnplcs1008]

Increase your meal portions
Complex carbs would be good
take naps if you can

This is what I do at least. Currently doing labor work and in terrible weather.

Work 5-6 days per week
Train 4-5 days per week

[KnownUnknown]

True. Clears your day up for everything else. My gym has a small amount of people in the morning, but come 7 pm. Geez.

[Improvfit]

I recently began daily physical work. At the end of the day, I have no energy left to go to the gym; I just want to sit down and relax the rest of the evening. How do people do it? Do they work out in the morning so that they're always fresh? Is going to the gym even necessary to maintain physical health if I am working with my body for 8 hours every day? I wouldn't expect a farmer to need to lift weights to stay in shape; he gets enough from his job, right?

Like some "unknown" guy said you have to get used to it. Just go to the gym right after work, even if you have to force yourself.
Some of my best workouts have come after a hard day at work (construction), but you have to do it to find that out for yourself.

Improv

PS. funny picture on the farmer

[perduebs]

I go before work. I work 12 hour days with a 4 on/4 off rotating day and night schedule. I get up at 3:50 and I am at the gym by 5. It works well for me, but I am also a "morning person."

[KnownUnknown]

Mornings are the bane of my existence, but I'm trying to get to the gym by 6:30.

[jason1903]

Yes, going to the gym is necessary, unless you want to feel like crap. I used to just go home, take a shower and drink a beer on the couch. I was also tired all the time and had constant back pain. Physical work exploits your body's weaknesses, promotes bad posture.

I suppose mornings are an option, but I hate mornings. That's why I get up at 7:15 for an 8:00 job, then go to the gym in the evening.... Don't give in, you would regret it

[mac520]

Yes, going to the gym is necessary, unless you want to feel like crap. I used to just go home, take a shower and drink a beer on the couch. I was also tired all the time and had constant back pain. Physical work exploits your body's weaknesses, promotes bad posture.

I suppose mornings are an option, but I hate mornings. That's why I get up at 7:15 for an 8:00 job, then go to the gym in the evening.... Don't give in, you would regret it

That's interesting. How does physical work promote bad posture? Did you not fix your life until you quit physical work?

[brian5060]

I recently began daily physical work. At the end of the day, I have no energy left to go to the gym; I just want to sit down and relax the rest of the evening. How do people do it? Do they work out in the morning so that they're always fresh? Is going to the gym even necessary to maintain physical health if I am working with my body for 8 hours every day? I wouldn't expect a farmer to need to lift weights to stay in shape; he gets enough from his job, right?

Well there are studies out there that indicate that when you do workout, your body releases chemicals that override other chemicals that lead to overall fatigue and feeling sleepy.

With that said, as soon as I get home, I have a light snack (2 egg omelet, 2 hamburger patties) and go straight to the gym. You will feel great 5 minutes into your workout.

Another benefit is that you will not be getting that feeling to take an afternoon nap even post workout, so you can enjoy your night.