Life as a truck driver means your schedule is different than most everyone else’s. And because of that you may not have time others do to maintain good health; however, that does not mean you can’t be committed to finding ways to be healthy. There are several ways you may not have even thought of that can substantially improve your health. And as long as you continue to work toward a healthy lifestyle, you will certainly be on the road to achieving optimal health … while on the road.
First and foremost, you need to identify you need to become healthier. Then, make small changes. In other words, take baby steps. This includes cutting out soft drinks and replacing them with water, or simply working on cutting fast food out of your diet. Yes, fast food is easy, and of course, fast, but it’s not good. It’s a “feel bad” type of food. Starting out small and working your way toward a healthier lifestyle works, and probably works even better because you won’t be overwhelming yourself by doing too much at once. Remember, becoming healthy takes time and energy, but once you are on the track to good health, you will feel better.
Next, try to get more sleep. You may not get as much sleep as you’d like, but there are ways to fix this even with a busy trucker’s schedule. If you wish to get more sleep but are stuck in the habit of going to sleep later, simply try going to bed an hour earlier each night. Also, try not to eat past 8 p.m., (if you work first shift) and instead of watching TV or being on your phone before bed, try reading a book to relax and rest your brain instead.
Exercise is important and has plenty of benefits. It can reduce your risk of heart attacks and other serious health problems. Although you may be on the road for days, weeks, or even months at a time, it is still important to get physical exercise daily, or at least every other day. Even a 30-minute brisk walk counts, as long as you get your body moving in one way or another. One important thing to remember when you exercise is not to have a weight loss goal. Instead, focus on strength and muscle goals, and weight loss may be an added bonus.
Another important way to become a healthier person and stay that way is to plan. Plan your day, meals, exercise, and sleep. Make a schedule and stick to it. Plan accordingly; include snacks, meals, and drinks. Carry healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, or protein bars in your truck. Snack on a schedule and not randomly. Always have water available in your truck. Water will keep you hydrated and clean your body out. Drink it often!
If you smoke, quit. It is not a healthy habit, and as a truck driver, it is an easy habit too pick up as a type of past time. This will be the most difficult part of your goal to get healthier, but it is essential if you are serious about maintaining your health. There are now e-cigarettes everywhere, including gas stations, with hundreds of flavors, so if you have to smoke, it’s recommended you try those instead.
Vitamins are another great asset because they fill in the nutrient gaps and ensure you are getting what you are missing in your current diet. So try to include vitamins in your diet.
Don’t let the challenging life of a trucker become an excuse against living a healthy lifestyle. You can do this, and you will feel better in the long run. The most important thing to remember is you have control of your body. Make the most of it by eating right, exercising as much as you can, and sleeping regularly.
Looking to join a great team of truck drivers? Did you know you can apply to Roeder Cartage Co., Inc. online? It’s quick and easy, just click on this link and apply today!