Working PIby Michael R. Budde, Odin Investigative Services
In the realm of private investigations, especially on the surveillance side of the business, the importance of maintaining physical health cannot be overstated. After nearly 13 years in the field, I’ve come to recognize that the job demands more than just sharp instincts; it requires a body that can weather the unpredictable nature of the work.
In this article, I’ll delve into the crucial link between physical fitness and the well-being of investigators, drawing from personal experiences that underscore the life-and-death implications of neglecting our health.
The Silent Threats
On a surveillance operation, time seems to stretch endlessly. As investigators, we’re often confined to uncomfortable positions for hours on end, hunched over in a car or discreetly tucked away in an inconspicuous spot. Some of us have had the distinct privilege of being in a surveillance vehicle for more than 48 hours. During one such operation, the severity of our sedentary lifestyle particularly hit home.
A close colleague, after years of surveillance work, fell victim to a blood clot that traveled to his lung. The outcome was severe, but he survived. The incident served as a stark reminder that our dedication to the job shouldn’t come at the cost of our health. Blood clots, back problems and other health issues can silently creep into the lives of investigators, and the consequences can be dire.
Considering these challenges, I imagine that many investigators reading this are currently thinking of the pain in their lower backs or necks. After years of surveillance, I don’t know many of us who don’t have various injuries and pains ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Physical Fitness and Well-Being
My personal fitness journey, spanning two decades of weightlifting, hiking, backpacking, hunting and jiu-jitsu, has been a lifeline in the face of these health threats. While the physical demands of the job are evident, the impact on our overall well-being is equally profound.
Here’s an overview of the fitness activities I enjoy, and the physical and mental benefits they provide me.
Powerlifting and Bodybuilding: In the realm of private investigations, where mental acuity is paramount, the benefits of weightlifting extend beyond a sculpted physique. Two decades of dedicated weightlifting have not only fortified my physical strength but also fortified my resilience in the face of the demanding challenges that investigations often throw my way. The discipline of weightlifting has become a cornerstone in my routine, providing me with the endurance and stamina needed to navigate the unpredictable landscapes of the profession.
For my fellow investigators, it’s not about benching personal records but about building a robust foundation that supports both the body and the mind, enhancing our overall capacity to excel in our craft. Having the ability to confidently move from your vehicle to on foot, and potentially up mountains lugging surveillance gear, is something weight training will make monumentally easier while giving you the physical stamina to meet the demands of long days of surveillance.
Incorporating sandbag and kettlebell training into your regimen takes this to another level, offering a dynamic edge that’s especially valuable for investigators. Sandbags, with their shifting weight, challenge your grip strength and core stability, mimicking the unpredictable nature of carrying equipment and moving through varied terrain. This type of training builds functional strength and resilience, which translates directly to real-world scenarios in which flexibility and adaptability are key.
Kettlebell training complements this by enhancing explosive power and endurance through exercises like swings, snatches and Turkish get-ups. These movements simulate the multidirectional challenges you’ll face in the field, improving your agility and strength in ways that traditional weightlifting alone might not. Together, sandbags and kettlebells refine your overall physical readiness, ensuring you’re not only strong but also agile and capable of handling the demanding physical tasks inherent in our line of work.
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Hiking/Backpacking: Embarking on the trail, with a backpack laden with essentials, has been my sanctuary away from the intricacies of surveillance. Hiking and backpacking serve as a powerful antidote to the sedentary nature of our work, reinvigorating both body and mind. The undulating paths, fresh air, and the rhythmic crunch of gravel beneath my boots provide not just physical exercise but also a mental reset.
It’s a reminder that investigations, much like a challenging trail, are a journey with highs, lows and unexpected turns. For my fellow investigators, the call of the outdoors need not be daunting; a weekend hike or a backpacking trip is not just a break from the case files but a therapeutic exploration that nurtures both physical and mental well-being.
Jiu-Jitsu: Jiu-jitsu, the art of grappling and submission, has been an unexpected but invaluable asset in my investigative toolkit. Beyond the physical demands of this martial art, its essence lies in adaptability, quick thinking and the ability to navigate unforeseen challenges—a perfect parallel to the fluid nature of investigations. As I roll on the mat, I am reminded that flexibility, both in body and mind, is paramount.
For investigators, the mats of a jiu-jitsu gym may seem worlds away from our daily grind, but the lessons learned in the controlled chaos of a rolling session resonate profoundly. It’s not just about self-defense; it’s about cultivating a mindset that can grapple with the complexities of our profession, ensuring that we remain agile and adept in the face of any unexpected twists in the narrative.
If you can handle the stress of being choked to near unconsciousness then returning the favor to your opponent, you can handle anything a case throws at you. Not to mention the confidence that comes from the ability to defend yourself in those extremely rare situations where a case has gone sideways.
Final Thoughts
As I share my experiences and insight into the crucial intersection of physical fitness and the life of a private investigator, my ultimate goal is to have fellow professional investigators understand the importance of prioritizing health within our demanding profession. I am a bit obsessive about my own health, and I don’t expect every PI to embark on the same fitness journey I have. The key is to find activities that resonate with you personally.
Whether it’s a leisurely walk with your family or four-legged companions after a prolonged day of surveillance, a short jog or a calming bike ride, incorporating even a modest amount of movement into your routine can make a world of difference. The goal is not perfection but the continual commitment to progression in our careers, bodies and minds, ensuring that we not only thrive in our professional endeavors but also lead healthier, more fulfilling lives beyond the shadows of our investigations.
As a final note, I have been designing workout plans for fellow investigators and other clients for years. If you aren’t sure where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. This is a subject I am passionate about and can talk endlessly about. I would love to hear from you! You can contact me by email at mbudde@odinpi.net.
About the Author
Michael R. Budde has been an accomplished private investigator since 2011, with extensive expertise in all facets of investigations. Based in Upstate New York, Michael travels nationwide, including to Alaska, for high-profile cases. He has also served as a speaker at industry conferences. He’s President and owner of Odin Investigative Services LLC, where he provides services across New York state, with a focus on rural cases. He maintains active memberships in the World Association of Detectives and the Associated Licensed Detectives of New York State.
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