While we all try our best to maintain a high level of fitness and wellness, there are those who go the extra mile to stay in tip-top shape, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because their job description demands it. Whether you’re a professional sportsperson or working in more dangerous environments, there are some jobs out there which require you to be at the absolute top of your fitness game. Here’s our roundup of those careers in which next-level fitness is an absolute non-negotiable, in the hopes that you’ll be feeling extra motivated next time you’re contemplating whether to hit the gym or not.
The Military
Probably not massively surprising, but a career in the military requires a lot more than just being able to carry some heavy weaponry. Above all else, a soldier (or someone working in any capacity in the military) needs to be able to demonstrate next-level amounts of endurance, as well as strength, balance and of course the mental stability which comes with maintaining wellness.
Military fitness regimes are now widely seen as effective among even the most mainstream fitness fanatics, with increasing numbers of people opting for the military lifestyle as a means of staying in top form. As well as strictly controlled diets that are naturally high in proteins, being fit enough for combat requires regular 2-3 mile runs, intensive weight training, agility courses and even yoga and gymnastics. Definitely not for the faint of heart.
Jockeys
We already did a piece a while back on the mind-boggling lengths horse racing jockeys are required to go through to stay on top of their game, but these guys make a somewhat surprising entry into the ranks of the most intense fitness regimes out there. Other than making sure their horse is on top form, your average professional jockey undergoes fitness tests pretty much every day which involve making sure every single muscle in the body gets a thorough workout. This includes practicing for the sweat-inducing “bleep test” which involves intensive muscle training, as well as regular miles-long cycles, runs, hikes and swims in order to keep up endurance.
Anyone who has seen a race will know it’s one of the most high-energy sports in existence, and highly competitive and prestigious events such as the Grand National require superhuman levels of commitment in order to stand a chance. The pressure is on, too, with thousands lining up to place their own Grand National bet on the current favourites to win and millions watching across the world.
Firefighters
Another one where physical strength is a major requirement, as it pretty much goes without saying that lugging people/dogs/precious family heirlooms out of burning buildings requires a high level of muscle mass. The notorious Equipment Carrying Selection Test is a major part of the selection process for budding firemen and women, and requires applicants to drag heavy equipment such as hoses and realistic human dummies over a grueling 100m obstacle course in under 6 minutes in order to pass. Definitely an effective way to build up those sexy shoulder muscles.
If there are any particularly gruelling professions you think we’ve missed out here, let us know in the comments.
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