Life on the road can tempt you into following unhealthy habits. However, staying healthy as a commercial truck driver doesn’t need to be a challenge. Staying aware of the ways in which you can maintain good health will ensure you look and feel great throughout your career as a commercial driver.
Pack Your Own Food
One of the biggest challenges for truck drivers is sticking to a healthy diet. The best way to ensure you’re eating healthy foods is to bring them along and keep them in ready supply. Purchasing a cooler can help you keep fruits and veggies fresh while on the road. Newer coolers can even be plugged into the power outlets in your cab to actively keep food chilled without the need for ice. Pack plenty of your favorite fruits and vegetables, whole-grain breads, deli meats, and low-fat cheeses to create healthy meals. Low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, and hummus with pita chips all make excellent midday snacks.
Make Healthy Menu Selections
There are many ways to eat healthily even if you do stop for fast food. Making smart menu choices in the drive-through can keep fat, calories, and sodium to a minimum when eating out. When selecting beverages, opt for water or unsweetened tea instead of soda, which will only add more calories and sugar to your diet.
Exercise Regularly
Every time you stop for gas, talk a walk around the area to keep your body moving. A pedometer can help you count the steps you’ve taken so you can set daily or weekly goals. There are also many simple exercises and stretches you can do in your cab, such as sit-ups and pushups. Try to perform a few sets of these daily before bed or first thing in the morning.
At HDS Truck Driving Institute, you’ll learn how to balance your health and your trucking career. Check us out on the web to find out more about our CDL classes, or call (877) 205-2141 for the answers to your questions about becoming a truck driver in Tucson.