legwork

plural legworks · alternative leg work · alternative leg-work

1. uncountableusuallyWork, especially research or preparation, that involves significant walking, travel, or similar effort.

   John did all the legwork. He had the invitations printed and mailed. He found speakers.

   2004, Jerry Acuff, The Relationship Edge in Business, page 62

   2 more examples

   In addition to spreading more information, brokers are going to have to do some leg work to get new customers.

   1955 March 7, “Who'll Buy My Stocks?”, in Time

   The worldwide effort has already revealed several valuable lessons [including] . . . the use of old-fashioned legwork in tracking down people who may unknowingly carry a virus.

   2003 May 1, Peter Spotts, “What the world has done right on SARS”, in Christian Science Monitor, retrieved 05 Jan 2009

2. uncountableusuallySkillful or vigorous use of the legs, as in dance or sports.

   Fancy legwork and jumping rope will get you in great shape.

   2005, Thomas Incledon, Matthew Hoffman, Men's Health Maximum Muscle Plan, page 353

   1 more example

   "Watriss, No. 3, is rowing well. . . . His leg work is very fair."

   1890 May 11, “Atalanta and Yale Race: An English expert criticizes the crews of Yale and Harvard”, in New York Times, retrieved 05 Jan 2009, page 20