9. Is it physically demanding?

1. Hermes
"Yes, it is. Not only does one have to be a strong cyclist, at times we have to carry very heavy packages. But I would say that if you aren't yet strong, and you'd like to become a messenger, you WILL get strong by doing it."

2. TONE:
"That is an understatement. Have you ever used a stationary bike in a gym while in the sauna? Of course it is physically demanding. Your reflexes are tested every moment you are on a bike. Your stamina is also pushed because you have to endure either hours of rain, inches of snow, or 90+ degree plus 90% humidity along with the exhaust from the buses and waves of heat emanating from the hoods of all those damned cabs as the sun reflects so nicely back at you off their shiny yellow hoods. I recommend drinking lots of Orange Juice because I have heard Vitamin C fights the effects of pollution, plus it is suppose to help fight colds, etc! You better believe I drink about a case of unconcentrated OJ cartons a week. You can definitely get in shape by messengering though.. just don't end up in the shape of a cracked egg all over the street under a garbage truck. "