Being a commercial truck driver can be financially rewarding while also allowing you to see places all over the U.S. It can also take a toll on your health and well-being, particularly when you’re first starting out, as being sedentary for many hours of the day is associated with a few ill effects. It’s totally possible to lead a healthy lifestyle as a trucker, however. The right health and wellness steps will keep you physically fit and prepared no matter how long you spend on the road. 

How New Truck Drivers Can Stay Healthy on the Road

1. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating healthy on the go can be tough. You may be tempted by fast food and processed goodies, either due to cravings or because nothing else is available. Focus your daily snacking on bagged, pre-cut fruits and veggies. You can usually find them at grocery stores as well as many convenient stores. You probably won’t be able to cook on the road, so when stopping for meals at fast food places, look for grilled lean meats, salads, and healthy sides. 

2. Exercise When You Can

Exercise can also be hard to come by when driving long stretches. Folding bikes are a great investment in this case, as they can be conveniently stored in your truck for riding when you have off time. Just make sure you ride your bike in a place that’s relatively free of traffic, such as a parking lot or the streets of a town. You can also purchase free weights or elastic workout bands, which can be used in your truck or hotel room if you’re staying overnight. 

3. Get Plenty of Rest

Both the food you eat and your level of activity can play a role in your energy level. The amount and quality of rest you get each night is also a huge factor.

Fatigued driving is dangerous for you and other motorists, so always obey time restrictions and make sure you’re getting at least seven hours of rest each night before heading out. If you feel tired, don’t rely on coffee or sugary snacks to pep you up. These will only work for a short time before you experience a crash of energy. 

New truck drivers must be sufficiently prepared for all the challenges that await them on the road. Great Lakes Truck Driving School in Columbia Station, OH, goes the extra mile to ensure students have what it takes to excel in their chosen careers. They offer a range of programs, including those that offer CDL skills training and heavy equipment operation. If you’re concerned about cost, they even provide financial aid so that all students can pursue a worthwhile and rewarding career. Visit them online for a complete program listing or call (440) 236-3436 to learn more about enrollment.