It is hard for most people to find the time in their day to stay in shape, but when you drive a truck it can be even more difficult. Your job is difficult but it also requires you to stay in your seat for hours each day. Over time this can lead to a very unhealthy lifestyle, heart problems, and becoming overweight. There are some great ways for truck drivers to stay in shape though.
Most over the road truck drivers stop to eat and rest at truck stops. Park at the end of the parking lot and walk inside to eat, shower, and relax. This exercise each time you stop will really add up in no time at all. Instead of sitting inside the truck stop and watching TV go for a walk around the area. This will give you some fresh air, exercise, and the chance to stretch out your legs.
Getting in and out of a big truck can be dangerous if you aren’t careful. Many truck drivers jump down instead of using the stairs. As a result they risk injuries to their knees and to their back. It is also important to wear quality shoes or boots that offer plenty of support for the arches in your feet.
You might be able to walk when you are making your deliveries as well. It depends on the rules that are set up at the place where you deliver. Many of them have rules in place where the driver’s have to stay in the cab at all times for safety reasons. If that is the case you can use that time to do paperwork or to take a nap.
It is possible to keep some basic exercise equipment in the cab of your truck. Lifting weights is a good exercise routine to incorporate into your day about three times per week. You can easily store the weights under your bed when you aren’t using them. There are some other types of exercise equipment that fit well into the cab of your truck as well that you may be interested in purchasing.
Getting sufficient sleep each nigh is important, and this can be difficult when you drive a truck. You may have deliveries at off hours and that means your sleep schedule is broken up rather than all at once. Make sure you have a comfortable mattress and pillow so you can sleep comfortably. Never accept loads that require you to work when you should be sleeping. Not only is this going to affect your overall health, it is illegal and you could find yourself in serious trouble if you get inspected or you are involved in an accident.
The foods you eat are very important to your overall health. Instead of grabbing fast food all the time, try to eat a good meal that offers you plenty of nutrients. Look for truck stop restaurants that offer you a quality salad bar full of fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also install a small refrigerator in your truck and stock up on nutritious foods for you to eat for meals and healthy snacks.
You need to make sure you eat enough during the day to keep up your energy levels. A person’s metabolism can slow down if you skip meals. Don’t starve yourself all day and then eat one large meal. It will be hard for your body to digest and you won’t have the energy you need to get through the day.
Most truck driver’s have a couple of days off in between runs. Use this time at the gym, playing sports, or doing yard work. There are so many different ways you can get the necessary exercise and stay in shape. Driving a truck is a rewarding career for those who really enjoy it. Yet if your health deteriorates you won’t be able to drive a truck so do all you can to stay fit now.
