Ask HN: Career Change to something without computers

I know previously on HN I had read of people who had transitioned out of programming into other work. I can't find the thread now though.

I am considering doing this. I have some health issues and I think sitting at a computer too much is leading to it. I've tried taking breaks from programming in the past and I usually end up missing it so I'm sure I still would continue programming as a hobby, however, I want to look into what other jobs a programmer might be good at that doesn't require sitting at a computer for so long.

Has anyone else switched from programming to another career? What other types of jobs would be good for a programmer?

How about personal trainer? Definitely get to stay away from the computer and it's a highly technical profession (if you choose to be highly informed about the body and nutrition) so it should still satisfy the engineer/programmer in you.

If health is your true concern, then lookinto making yourself a healthier office. Check out spolsky's offices for instance -- much healthier than typical

Do the health issues stem from being in front of a computer, or sitting at the computer?

Even if you transition over to a career as a bike messenger[1], the odds are pretty good that an alternative career will require you to spend a significant amount of time sitting, either in conference rooms or in front of a computer.

Although I have yet to take the plunge, I hear nothing but good things from people who have transitioned to standing desks (one example: http://lifehacker.com/5735528/why-and-how-i-switched-to-a-st...).

[1] I'm sure sitting on a bike is better for you than sitting on a chair, discounting potential concerns like being run over by a car.

I worked at a building site for a year in a remote place. That was non-profit actually (I also didn't have to spend money for being there) - building a meditation center with friends, but it was great time of my life. I got healthy and had a change to just think of some ideas without rush. I returned to the business with savings somewhat reduced , but with new energy to do stuff.

I think with some courage any physical job will do (edit: the one actually curing not worsening your health problems), because as hackers we learn to not give up and not be distracted by failures. Thus, I'd choose an occupation usually done in a nice healthy environment - like carpentry.

Of course, you will start from a zero level and will earn funny small amount of bucks. But I guess it's not the point (and you will probably don't need much, assuming you don't have a family dependent on you).

I really think physical working is so underrated. It builds your constitution slowly but in a way that cannot be achieved in a gym, because it happens in a natural way, not artificially.