Contractor Health and Fitness Month

May is Employee Health & Fitness Month — and at Icon Accounting, we're making sure it's not just employees who are part of the conversation. Contractors deserve to thrive too.

Whether you’re working remotely, in a hybrid model, or on-site with a client, your health and wellbeing matter just as much as your day rate. In fact, they’re vital to sustaining a long and successful contracting career.

That’s why this month, we’re focusing on realistic, actionable ways contractors can support their wellbeing — from workspace tweaks to smarter routines and financial peace of mind.

1. Optimise Your Workspace for Health & Comfort

Your working environment plays a huge role in how you feel throughout the day. Investing in an ergonomic set-up isn’t just about comfort — it can reduce the risk of long-term health issues like back pain, repetitive strain injuries, and eye strain.

Practical upgrades to consider:

• Adjusting monitor height to avoid neck strain
• Choosing a supportive chair with lumbar support
• Exploring standing desk options or laptop risers
• Investing in proper lighting to reduce glare and fatigue
• Switching to an ergonomic keyboard and mouse for wrist health

�� Bonus: Many of these improvements can qualify as business expenses — potentially offering tax relief of up to 52% on the cost of purchases.

2. Move More, Stress Less

Staying physically active throughout the workday isn’t always easy — but it can make a huge difference to your energy levels, focus, and even your mood.

Simple ways to stay active as a contractor:

• Set hourly stretch break reminders
• Try desk-friendly exercises or chair yoga
• Check and reset your posture throughout the day
• Incorporate regular screen breaks to rest your eyes and mind

As an Icon Accounting client, don’t forget to check out iPerks. Its wellbeing feature can help you build healthy routines, with on-demand resources to support your physical and mental health goals — tailored to busy contractor lifestyles.

3. Build a Work-Life Balance That Works for You

One of the biggest benefits of contracting? Flexibility. You have the freedom to shape your career around your lifestyle — choosing projects that align with your schedule, priorities, and wellbeing goals.

But balance doesn’t happen by accident — it’s something you have to actively design.

Start by:

• Setting clear boundaries with clients and yourself
• Using time-blocking techniques to avoid burnout
• Exploring mindfulness or relaxation apps for daily resets
• Scheduling regular digital detoxes to recharge fully

And yes, iPerks can support here too, offering guided tools to help you make rest and recovery part of your strategy — not just an afterthought.

4. Don’t Overlook Financial Fitness

Let’s not forget: your health as a contractor isn’t just physical or mental — it’s financial too. Money worries can be a significant source of stress, especially when you're managing your own income and tax obligations.

That’s why every Icon client has access to a dedicated account manager, ready to support you with:

• Budgeting and cash flow planning
• Business expenses and tax efficiency
• Long-term financial goals and future planning

We also partner with expert wealth management advisors to help you create a personalised roadmap towards financial security — so you can feel confident and stress-free, both now and in the years ahead.

Just because you work for yourself doesn’t mean looking after yourself should come last.

This May, let’s shift the focus to thriving — in work, in health, and in life.

Need help building healthier habits as a contractor?
Get in touch with your account manager today, or explore the wellness tools available through iPerks to take the first step toward a more balanced, energised, and successful contracting life.