Thanks for sharing, Roy. Your performance is amazing, congrats to that.

Your observation about "plain old physical" labor being a substitute for the gym has its credentials. Probably not for every type of labor, though. I have observed many cases of farmers retaining physical health and strength into very old age. But take other physically demanding jobs, such as construction work, and the picture is not as straightforward. While there are probably other lifestyle aspects that play a role, the research literature supports the notion that work-related PA does not necessarily bestow the same health benefits as recreational PA (gym or no gym). But farming work, the way you describe it, is pretty close to endurance workouts. I'd love to see a post from you about your experience. It would be very motivating and inspirational for readers.