Cleaning Pools is Bust Your Back Work!

When most people think about pool maintenance, they picture a relaxing job working outdoors in the sunshine. But as anyone who's actually cleaned pools professionally will tell you, the reality is quite different. Pool service work is physically demanding, back-breaking labor that takes a serious toll on your body over time.

In a recent episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, hosts Rudy Stankiewicz and Andrea Nanini opened up about the physical realities of working in the pool industry and how it's shaped their approach to health and fitness. Their candid conversation reveals both the challenges and unexpected benefits of this demanding profession.

The Physical Reality of Pool Service Work

Pool service isn't just about testing water chemistry and adding chemicals. It involves heavy lifting, awkward positioning, constant bending and stretching, and repetitive motions that can wreak havoc on your body. Rudy's experience serves as a sobering reminder of just how physically demanding this work can be.

You know we were talking about this earlier today and you said that pool service work was bust your back work And then we spoke and no pun intended I broke my back doing pool service work Which is why I don't do pool service work now I got to a point where I had to sell the company.

— Rudy Stankiewicz, Talking Pools Podcast

Rudy's story illustrates an unfortunate reality in the pool service industry. After suffering a back injury that doctors couldn't properly diagnose for a decade, he was forced to transition away from hands-on pool service work and move into teaching and consulting. This career shift, while necessary for his health, represents a common trajectory for many pool professionals who find their bodies can't sustain the physical demands of the job long-term.

The Unexpected Fitness Benefits

Despite the risks and challenges, there's a silver lining to pool service work that many in the industry can relate to. The constant physical activity required for pool maintenance can actually serve as a comprehensive workout routine, eliminating the need for expensive gym memberships.

It's very easy to stay in shape when you're doing pool service work. It really is No, no, it really is because for such a long time. I did not have gym memberships.

— Andrea Nanini, Talking Pools Podcast

Andrea's observation highlights one of the few perks of this physically demanding profession. Pool technicians are constantly moving, lifting equipment, manipulating pool tools, and working in various positions that engage different muscle groups. This natural fitness routine can keep workers in excellent shape without the need for additional exercise programs.

However, this benefit comes with a caveat - the work needs to be done with proper body mechanics and safety precautions to avoid injury. The same activities that can keep you fit can also cause serious long-term damage if performed incorrectly or without adequate rest and recovery.

Finding Balance Through Yoga and Mindfulness

Both hosts discussed alternative approaches to maintaining physical and mental health, with Andrea sharing her experience with yoga as a complementary practice to the physical demands of pool work.

It's mindfulness. You connect your body and mind. It's not just about stretching and you know yoga pants and stuff like that... It combines all of those things. That's why I think literally everyone in the entire world should do it

— Andrea Nanini, Talking Pools Podcast

Andrea's description of yoga goes beyond the physical aspects to encompass mental health benefits. For pool service professionals who deal with physical stress daily, yoga offers several advantages:

• Improved flexibility and range of motion
• Better posture and body awareness
• Stress relief and mental clarity
• Muscle recovery and injury prevention
• Mind-body connection that can improve work performance

The meditation component of yoga can be particularly valuable for pool professionals who often work alone and need mental strategies for managing stress and staying focused throughout long workdays.

Professional Tips from the Field

Even while discussing health and fitness, the hosts couldn't help but share valuable technical knowledge. Pete the Pool Guy made a guest appearance with a practical tip about troubleshooting Pentair MasterTemp heaters:

When dealing with pinter master temp heaters To diagnose or to fight a final what an issue is or problem is what you got to do It's going to give you a code on the screen, right? But sometimes it doesn't give you a code So what you have to do is you got to remove the lid from the heater And on the display board on the back on the mainframe part... it'll light on so then you just look it up and you got the You got the the issue right there.

— Pete the Pool Guy, Talking Pools Podcast

This kind of practical, field-tested advice represents the real value of learning from experienced professionals. When equipment doesn't provide obvious error codes, knowing where to look for backup diagnostic information can save time and prevent unnecessary service calls.

Making Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Health

The conversation took a personal turn as Rudy shared his own health journey and recent decision to make significant lifestyle changes. After surgery and weight gain, he found himself at a crossroads familiar to many in physically demanding professions.

Rudy's decision to become a pescatarian represents a common pattern among pool professionals who can no longer rely on the physical demands of their work to maintain their health. When injury or age limits physical activity, dietary changes become crucial for maintaining overall wellness.

His story also highlights the importance of having transition plans in the pool industry. Physical demands mean that many professionals will eventually need to move into less physically intensive roles like consulting, teaching, or equipment sales. Planning for this transition early in your career can help ensure long-term success in the industry.

Practical Strategies for Pool Professionals

Based on the discussion, several key strategies emerge for maintaining health while working in the pool service industry:

• Prioritize proper body mechanics: Learn correct lifting techniques and invest in ergonomic tools
• Incorporate stretching and flexibility work: Whether through yoga, professional stretching services, or daily routines
• Plan for career transitions: Develop skills that will allow you to stay in the industry even if physical limitations arise
• Address injuries promptly: Don't ignore pain or assume it will resolve on its own
• Consider alternative therapies: Regular massage, stretching services, or other bodywork can help prevent injuries

The pool industry offers rewarding career opportunities, but professionals need to be proactive about protecting their long-term health. The physical demands are real, but with proper preparation and self-care, it's possible to have a long, successful career in pool service.

As Andrea noted about the importance of taking time for self-care activities like yoga, sometimes you need to step away from the endless to-do list and invest in your own well-being. For pool professionals who are used to taking care of everyone else's backyard oasis, this can be a challenging but necessary shift in perspective.

The conversation between Rudy and Andrea serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiring example of how pool industry professionals can adapt and thrive despite the physical challenges of their chosen field. Whether through preventive care, alternative therapies, or strategic career planning, there are ways to maintain both your health and your passion for the pool industry throughout your working years.

Episode Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Voice Test Fun
• 15:30 Pete's Heater Diagnostic Tip
• 22:45 Andrea's Yoga Journey
• 35:20 The Physical Demands of Pool Work
• 42:10 Rudy's Health Journey and Diet Changes
• 55:30 Fitness Alternatives and Recovery Methods