[Jewelry making - Article 00826] - Re: [Orchid] The physical requirements of goldsmithing

[ali d]

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Hi David

    When I studied metalwork in college and at uni after 5 years my arms
    were very muscular and the difference between my right arm and my
    left arm was very noticable, previous to metalwork I had been akin to
    a stick insect. Although I used both arms for working with, my
    hammers and rolling mill were used in my right hand and so made my
    right arm alot more muscular. I then went on to become a teacher and
    noticed that the muscle tone in my arms disappeared within a year or
    so. I have been teaching for the last 6 years and have recently
    returned to metalwork and jewellery. I am finding it hard adjusting
    to it physically. I have to take lots of breaks and my hands are
    killing me. I have had to buy some hand grip excerciser thingys
    because I can't hold my metal right once my hands are tired. I know
    it sounds wimpy, I am a 30 yr old small built female. My back aches
    and my shoulders and neck hurt from bracing them constantly. However
    that being said, having been through this before I know that it gets
    better as you get used to it and in 6 months time I will be able to
    sit at my bench nearly all day without any problems. I have found
    that getting down on the floor and doing some pressups and stretches
    helps me deal with my aches and pains. hope this helps. 

Ali
Sheffield UK
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