I love Zookeeping

[urbpan]

But it's really bad for your back. I've got separate upper and lower back strain injuries from lifting and carrying things, and I can really feel them when I bend and stoop, which is pretty much constantly at work. If health insurance was sane and logical, the zoo would be sending me to the gym to build strength in my abdominal muscles and upper body so that I would be less likely to injure myself and more able to lift and carry. Instead health insurance seems to mainly cover emergencies, like when you throw your back out and have to miss time at work.

I should go to a gym on my own, but it's just too expensive. Also, all these people that go to the gym all the time, when do they actually do it? My dad goes right when the gym opens at 5 or whatever. Other people seem to go after work. I guess there's time if you are willing to sacrifice it, but I feel like we have to grasp for all the time we have already.

Comments

[bellelvsbeast.livejournal.com]

It would make sense for health insurance to include gym memberships...I know some places DO pay for gym memberships, but they are usually corporations who have the money to spare, or that's their opinion. I would think having your employees in good physical condition would benefit any position that was so physically demanding like yours...do they offer discounted programs or anything like that to go towards gym membership?
When I was a member at Gold's Gym I only paid $30 a month (not sure if that's too expensive to you or not) and what I did was express my interest in joining to one of the customer associates and just made sure they knew I didn't make much money and wouldn't sign unless there wasn't a sign up fee and if the monthly fee was under $40...you just have to haggle a little and you could find a good deal. Now I'm a member of a private gym (not a big name one) and I'm paying less than I did at Gold's...it's possible to find something that could work for you! :)
I agree you have to grasp the time you have available, but it doesn't hurt to devote an hour occasionally to helping your body, which you are stuck with for awhile :)
When I can't make it to the gym I do home workouts with my Hip Hop Abs DVD set just so that I still make an effort.
I haven't been working for a bit, but I definitely remember the aches and pains...not good times :P