Being behind the wheel for hours a day makes it easy for a trucker to develop unhealthy habits, such as not getting enough rest and eating fatty food. However, by implementing various healthy living tips, truck drivers can keep their health in prime condition while on the road. Here are 12 tips to begin applying to your daily routine today.
1. Get Adequate Sleep
A great day always starts with a good night’s rest. Try getting the optimal 7-8 hours of sleep each night to keep your body healthy.
2. Stretch
Sitting for long periods of time can strain your muscles and give you aches and pains. Make sure to stretch at every stop, and even try doing simple neck and arm stretches while driving.
3. Exercise Daily
Exercising is atop the list of every doctor’s recommendation for living a healthy lifestyle. While you might not have a weight room on the road, you can try walking 30-45 minutes once a day at rest stops to get in the recommended amount of exercise.
4. Eat Healthy
The old sayings goes, “you are what you eat.” While it’s quick and easy to grab fast food when on the road, it’s not the healthiest option. Instead of eating out, try packing meals for your trip. If you have to eat out, always look at the calorie count on the foods you eat before you make a purchase.
5. Listen to Music
It is scientifically proven that music is the key to good health. Try using a satellite radio provider so that you can get consistent access to radio stations while on the move.
6. Limit Caffeine Intake
Too much caffeine can be detrimental for your body. Try limiting your daily caffeine intake and not drinking caffeine an hour before bedtime to ensure a good night’s sleep.
7. Talk to Friends and Family
Eating right and exercising isn’t enough to stay healthy. You also need to be emotionally healthy and happy. When on the road, always make sure to take time to talk with your family and friends back home.
8. Quit Smoking
Many truck drivers have picked up this bad habit. You can do all the things on this list, but it if you continue to smoke, it won’t do you any good. Need help quitting? Get tips on how to quit smoking once and for all.
9. Wash Your Hands
When you’re on the road, you have to use public facilities where millions of other travelers have been. If someone has a cold or flu, you can catch it from touching the same door they did. Always make sure to wash your hands before you eat to prevent catching something contagious.
10. Take Vitamins
It’s easy not to get the right vitamins you need when you’re on the road, but you can do something about this! Take a daily vitamin, available at any pharmacy or grocery store.
11. Relax
Being on the road long hours and sitting in heavy traffic can be very stressful, especially when you’re trying to make a deadline. Try to make time everyday to relax and unwind. Here are some easy ways to relax.
12. Drink Plenty of Water
Put down the soda and grab a water! Your body needs to stay hydrated to be healthy, and sodas alone won’t give your body the water it needs. Try bringing a refillable bottle of water with you that holds 32oz or more and drink at least two bottles daily.
Now it’s time to put these tips to good use. If you follow these 12 steps, not only will you be a healthier truck driver, you will be happier.
Just looking to get your trucking career started? M&W Transportation offers the best combination of compensation, home time, equipment and working environment available in trucking today. Give us a call today at 615.256.5755 to learn more about our truck driving opportunities.
