In-depth research shows that over 69% of truck drivers in the U.S. are obese. Moreover, 61% of truckers reported experiencing two or more health risk factors, including obesity, smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension, no physical activity, and fewer than 6 hours of sleep. Moreover, 54% of the workforce is over the age of 45, which indicates a higher risk of injury and illness. These ailments can have a devastating impact on your life, finances, and career. However, making healthier choices and learning to exercise on the road can significantly improve your physical and mental health, stress levels, and immune system.Staying in shape as a truck driver requires determination, consistency, and hard work. But with dedication and planning, you can improve your health! Below we discuss the top truck driver exercises and tips to work out while you’re on the road:
Top Six Truck Driver Exercises
There are multiple ways truck drivers can exercise while driving. Prioritize your health and stay fit by trying these top truck driver exercises:
Running or Walking
The secret to maintaining your health as a truck driver is understanding you don’t need a gym to stay fit. Research shows that a mere 15-minute run can strengthen your body and improve your endurance.
So, if you stop by a park or trail, grab the opportunity to walk or run. Running, jogging, or walking can increase your health, refresh your mind, and boost muscle power in the stomach and legs.
In addition, it can enhance your heart health and boost your energy levels! It can even help restore your sleep by encouraging your body to remain in a deep sleep for longer.
Push-ups and Pull-ups
Doing push-ups and pull-ups is beneficial to your health since it increases your strength. These exercises can also help enhance your body’s muscular system, improving posture and raising your shoulders’ endurance.
Moreover, pull-ups for push-ups strengthen your back, shoulder, chest, and bone density. Truck drivers can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity.
Dumbbells
Packing a few dumbbells in your truck can go a long way in helping you stay fit and healthy. Plus, exercise is a straightforward way to keep in shape.
You can use dumbbells while driving; pick up the dumbbell and lift it during a red light to keep your body active. You can also do a few reps before sleeping, increasing sleep quality. Besides this, using dumbbells can help build muscles, improve cardio health, and increase bone health.
Mini Trampoline
A mini trampoline is a fantastic exercise that will give your joints more energy. Since truck drivers spend so much time sitting down, weak joints are a common issue.
The advantages of this exercise include weight loss, improved immunological function, increased bone mass, higher oxygen circulation, reduced cellulite, improved balance and posture, and more.
Shrug Holds
The trapezius muscles are the primary muscles targeted by shoulder shrugs. Neck and shoulder strengthening exercises have the power to lessen neck pain drastically.
Sit-ups
The best strategy to maintain your health and acquire a flatter tummy is to do sit-ups. By performing this exercise, you can reduce belly fat and tone your midsection and lower back. Additionally, it helps with posture correction, strengthening the hips and core, and boosting flexibility.
Set up 15 minutes for your daily workouts to obtain the most benefit. If you adhere to that strictly, your health will improve, and you’ll look nice.
Tips and Tricks to Stay in Shape as a Truck Driver
The National Health Interview Survey compared the adult working population in the United States to the proportion of truck drivers who had specific health conditions and exhibited behaviors that increased their risk of accidents and sickness. The findings indicated the necessity for a customized strategy to minimize illness and injury among truck drivers to enhance overall driver health.
Despite what the statistics might suggest, many truckers lead active, fulfilling lives. You can start by making some easy adjustments to your everyday routine priority.
Here are some recommendations you can use to live a better lifestyle.
Create a Goal and Stick to It
Your ability to alter your perspective will be your most significant accomplishment. You must modify your way of life and stick to it. Setting attainable goals with a deadline is the best method to achieve this –for instance, committing to exercising three days a week for at least a month or losing 2 kg by May.
Next, tell your family and friends about your objective so they can encourage you along the road and hold you accountable. Who knows, they might even decide to join you. Create a schedule with specific times and days, carry it with you, and ensure to follow it.
Eat Healthy Snacks
Always keep a supply of nutritious food in the truck. It’s simple to enter a petrol station and find a bag of tasty-looking chips or delicious chocolate milk. However, having healthy snacks on hand will lessen the likelihood that you’ll reach for something unhealthy.
Make the Most Out of Your Off Days
There are more ways to include in your life, such as opting for a quick run in a nearby park. Find truck stops with a gym. Yes, they exist. Check to see if you can find a safe spot close by, spend a few minutes working out, and reap the benefits of your profession as a truck driver.
FAQs
1. How to Workout as a Truck Driver?
There are numerous ways to exercise. You can carry truck driver exercises equipment to help you with a workout routine or look for activities you can do while sitting in your driving seat.
2. How Do Truck Drivers Stay in Shape?
Most drivers opt for workout routines to stay in shape. Since truck drivers have a strict schedule, they must focus on exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
3. How to Stay Fit as a Truck Driver?
Truck drivers can do different exercises such as sit-ups, push-ups, lunges, and more to stay healthy. Since their job demands them to sit for long hours, paying attention to their health is crucial for truckers. The good thing is there are multiple exercises for truck drivers to maintain their weight and lead a healthy lifestyle.
The Bottom Line
Being a truck driver is not necessary to be in terrible health. By adhering to a straightforward routine that enhances your quality of life, you can lead a healthy lifestyle.