Building More Than Projects
Running a construction business is no small task. Between managing teams, overseeing projects, navigating permits, and dealing with unexpected challenges, it’s easy to let everything else in your life take a back seat. For many in this field, health and fitness are often the first things to go. I understand the demands of the job all too well—after all, I’ve been doing this since I started Paul Krebs Construction back in 1967. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s this: taking care of your body is just as important as taking care of your business.
Balancing physical fitness with the pace of construction work isn’t always easy, but it’s possible—and it’s worth it. Staying active has helped me stay sharp, energized, and ready to handle whatever challenges come my way. If you want to build a long, successful career, you’ve got to take care of the foundation—your own health.
Why Fitness Matters in Construction
Many people assume construction work alone is enough to stay in shape. And while it’s true that we stay active on the job, it’s not always the kind of movement that keeps you healthy long-term. Repetitive strain, long hours, and stress can wear you down if you’re not balancing things out with intentional exercise and recovery.
I’ve always had a love for sports and physical activity. I ran track at Auburn University, played semi-pro rugby with the Birmingham All Blacks, and over the years, I’ve picked up tennis, windsurfing, bicycling, and strength training. These activities haven’t just kept me fit—they’ve kept me mentally strong and emotionally balanced.
When you own and operate a business, especially one as unpredictable as construction, you need a way to relieve stress and stay focused. Regular exercise gives you that outlet. It clears your head, boosts your energy, and makes it easier to handle the curveballs that come your way.
Making Time for Movement
One of the most common excuses I hear is, “I just don’t have time to work out.” I get it. Between early morning site visits, meetings, and the unexpected fires you have to put out, the day can get away from you. But here’s the truth: you make time for what matters.
For me, that often means waking up early to fit in a bike ride, some weight training, or a few laps in the pool before the workday starts. Sometimes it’s a quick workout in the garage after dinner. Other times it’s a weekend windsurfing session or a tennis match with friends. The point is, you don’t have to train like an Olympian. Just stay consistent and keep moving.
Even short workouts can make a big difference. A 30-minute ride, a few sets of bodyweight exercises, or even a brisk walk can reset your mind and recharge your body.
Fitness as a Leadership Tool
Staying fit also helps you show up as a better leader. When you feel good physically, you’re more focused, more patient, and more effective. People notice that energy. Your employees, clients, and partners can tell when you’re sharp and present—and when you’re dragging.
Construction sites are fast-paced, and leadership requires clarity and endurance. Being active gives me the stamina to stay alert during long days and the focus to make smart decisions when they matter most. Plus, leading by example can encourage others around you to take better care of themselves too.
Turning Hobbies Into Healthy Habits
Fitness doesn’t have to be boring or feel like a chore. Over the years, I’ve found ways to stay active that are fun and fulfilling. Tennis, biking, windsurfing—they keep me engaged while giving my body the movement it needs.
Find something you enjoy and make it part of your routine. Maybe that’s playing basketball with your kids, hiking with your spouse, or hitting the gym with a buddy. If you make fitness something you look forward to, you’re more likely to stick with it.
And don’t forget—rest and recovery matter too. Getting enough sleep, stretching, and giving your body time to heal are just as important as the workouts themselves, especially as you get older.
Health is the Ultimate Investment
When you’re running a business, you’re constantly making investments—time, money, energy. But none of it will matter if your health falls apart. You can’t run job sites, lead teams, or grow a company if you’re running on empty.
I’ve seen people burn out, break down, and lose their edge because they didn’t take care of themselves. I’ve also seen what’s possible when you prioritize fitness—more energy, more clarity, better relationships, and a longer, more fulfilling career.
Taking care of your body isn’t a luxury. It’s a responsibility. And it pays dividends in every area of your life.
Final Thoughts: Build Yourself Like You Build a Project
At the end of the day, I think about health and fitness the same way I think about construction. Start with a strong foundation. Follow a solid plan. Make time for maintenance. And be patient—progress takes time, but it always adds up.
You wouldn’t cut corners on a project, so don’t cut corners on your health. Treat your body with the same care and respect you give your business. Because no matter how successful your company becomes, your greatest asset will always be you.