Most of us probably never stop to consider if what we do for a living is healthy for us or not.

Maybe we should.

L. Casey Chosewood, MD, senior medical officer for the Total Worker Health program, says, “Employees need respect, benefits, wellness incentives, and control over their work. What matters equally is the quality of life away from work, and how we can protect and grow that.”

According to reports by career advice agencies such as Monster.com and CareerBliss.com, people who work as fitness instructors have one of the healthiest jobs out there today. It’s not just because they are physically active in their work, either. It seems these positions offer positive interactions with others, as well as creativity, and flexibility in schedule.

Other careers that appear to be good for a person’s health are those where employees work for companies that hold people accountable for the work they produce, more so than the hours they spend in the office. According to reports, a career in software engineering can often provide an employee with that luxury.

Some of the worst jobs for a person’s health are painfully obvious. Both firefighters and police officers rank high on the list, as well as desk jockeys who live their sedentary lifestyle inside a cubicle all day.

Those holding manual labor positions are also at risk for unhealthy work since a reported 65,040 cases of injuries and illness among laborers was reported in 2010. They are followed closely behind lawyers, and healthcare shift workers.

Which do you have – one of the best or worst jobs for your health?

Best Jobs for Your Health

1. Fitness Instructor

2.
Software Engineer

3.
Florist

4.
Insurance Worker

5.
Allied Health Professional

6.
Government Employee

7.
Administrative Assistant

8.
Small Business Employee

Worst Jobs for Your Health

1. Firefighter/Police Officer

2.
Desk Jockey

3.
Manual Laborer

4.
Lawyer

5.
Healthcare Shift Workers

6.
Service and Retail Employees

7.
Enlisted Soldier

8.
Transportation Workers

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