legwork

Etymology

leg + work.

noun

1. Work, especially research or preparation, that involves significant walking, travel, or similar effort.
   In addition to spreading more information, brokers are going to have to do some leg work to get new customers. 7 Mar 1955, “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. 1 May 2003, Peter Spotts, “What the world has done right on SARS”, in Christian Science Monitor, retrieved 2009-01-05
   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. Skillful or vigorous use of the legs, as in dance or sports.
   Watriss, No. 3, is rowing well. . . . His leg work is very fair. 11 May 1890, “Atalanta and Yale Race: An English expert criticizes the crews of Yale and Harvard”, in New York Times, retrieved 2009-01-05, page 20
   Fancy legwork and jumping rope will get you in great shape. 2005, Thomas Incledon, Matthew Hoffman, Men's Health Maximum Muscle Plan, page 353