Take a Load Off: Tips to be a Healthy Truck Driver

Being healthier as a truck driver doesn’t need to be a
painstakingly detailed or time-consuming affair. A few simple changes to your
routine can greatly decrease your risk of diabetes, stress levels, and
unhealthy fats. From managing your food, fixing your back pain, and getting a
restful sleep, 160 Driving Academy has the tips to help you be a healthier,
more alert, and happier truck driver.

FOOD

1. Smaller
portions, more often.-Small, snack-like portions over the course of a day mean
that you’re constantly feeding your metabolism. Even if you don’t eat five
small meals a day, simply shrinking your regular meal size will help drop
excess fat. And don’t miss breakfast!

2. Replace,
replace, replace-There are always healthier alternatives. Replace
processed chips and fatty snacks with dried fruit, nuts, oat bars to inject
your body with healthy fats, cholesterol-lowering fibers, and essential
vitamins. Switch sodas to juice or cold, fruit teas instead, although water
would be your healthiest option.

3. You are what
you eat-Heavy foods with carbs, sugars, and fats will make you
groggy and build up in your body as unhealthy fats. Opt for fresher foods by
making your own deli sandwiches and salads to save money, give you energy, and
avoid feeling sluggish.

BODY

1. Sit up straight-Bad posture is a leading cause of back problems for truck
drivers. Pull the back of your seat forward to help you keep a straight back
and make sure your shoulders not slouched.

2. Strength helps
in more ways than one-Increased muscle mass helps you burn fat. Buy some free
weights or look into gym memberships with locations across the country to help
you strengthen your body and particularly your lower back muscles.

3. Fresh air-Being outside not only lifts your mood but can help your
body too. Simply taking a walk, jog, stretch, or hike outdoors gets your blood
flowing and your endorphins moving.

SLEEP

1. Don’t indulge
before bed-Alcohols can cause dehydration, restless sleeps, and
actually cause you to wake. Drinks with caffeine will prevent you from falling
asleep, and while fatty foods can make you sleepy, your body won’t metabolize
it, causing bloat and fat deposits.

2. Into darkness-Use sunglasses or bandannas to shade your eyes during
naps and use earplugs to shut out distracting sounds that may wake you before
you’re ready.

3. Prepare
mentally-Avoid stimulating activities like watching TV, surfing
the web, and playing phone games. Get relaxed by meditating, reading a book, or
doing some light stretching 15 minutes before bed.

STRESS

1. You’re more
than just a trucker- Stimulate your brain and lower stress by taking a hobby
with you. Whether it’s photography, fishing, or playing the guitar, a mental
break with something you love can greatly reduce anxiety.

2. Keep in touch-Despite long hours, keep in touch with family, friends,
and loved ones. Create a phone schedule so you can look forward to a
conversation without worrying about calling during an inopportune time.

3. Meditate-Simply taking some time to sit outside or on a bed to
reflect is enough to calm yourself and help you keep your mind in tune with
your body.

At 160 Driving Academy we know all there is about
trucking and are ready to help you earn your CDL. Start your truck driving
career in as little as 4 weeks by calling us or filling out our online form for
more information!