If all the big trucks were to shut down for even one day, the impact would be severe. The trucking industry depends on its drivers, and the drivers depend on their health. The food choices truckers have available to them is often limited and of poor nutritional value. Though some fast food restaurants now offer salads or fruit, the question remains, how many truckers have the time to sit down and eat a salad?  Exercise is another thing that requires some time, and because of miles and delivery times, it gets pushed aside.

Start with small improvements. Having a cooler along in the truck allows you to carry fresh fruit or make your own sandwich. There are coolers available that plug into the truck, so you don’t need ice.  Fruit has natural sugar that your body can use readily, and no fat. Having a granola bar or even dried fruit can make a difference in weight control and energy levels. Being in and out of the truck can mess up your day and make you sick, so keep up on your Vitamin C. It helps to ward off colds before you get them. A daily multivitamin can’t hurt either.

Even small amounts of exercise is good for you. While waiting to be unloaded, take a walk around the building or the lot. You can work your arms by doing arm circles while holding that tire iron you’ve got. Squats are great for your legs, and crunches can be done in your bunk. See how flexible you are, stretching burns calories all by itself.