You may think that working out isn’t in the cards while out on the road as a truck driver, but that isn’t the case! Truck drivers all over the nation have found creative ways to get their daily workout in no matter where they are or the equipment they have. There are countless benefits to working out, from improving overall physical and mental health to reducing stress and boosting your mood!
You can’t fit an entire gym into the cab of your truck, but there are many kinds of workout equipment that take up little space you could pack! Even though the equipment is compact, don’t let the size fool you; you can still get a fantastic workout.
Compact Work Out Equipment
Jump Rope
Jumping rope is a very efficient way to burn calories! When you jump rope, you can burn more calories in a shorter amount of time than doing cardio on a treadmill. The dynamic motion used when jumping rope also helps improve coordination! If you are short on time, the jump rope is the best tool for staying fit and healthy. Jump ropes are portable, inexpensive, and can help increase the intensity of circuit training workouts.
Resistance Bands
If you want to start working out but don’t want to invest in a ton of equipment, then buy some resistance bands. There are different strengths and types of bands that can be used to achieve your workout goals.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Instead of bringing multiple weights or plates, you can bring the Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbell set that adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds each! With these, you can do exercises like curls, tricep extensions, walking lunges, calf raises, or whatever you like best at all different weights. This set easily stows away in your sleeper berth while offering you a wide range of weight to pick from! Lifting weights can improve muscle strength and flexibility.
Balance Board
Not the most common piece of workout equipment, but easy to travel with is a balance board. Small and compact, you can devote a little time each day to improving your balance and core strength. Both of which directly correlate with improving posture.
Tennis Shoes
You can get a great workout without any equipment if you have a good pair of tennis shoes by going on a walk, jog, or run! Going for a walk or a run during your breaks is an easy way to get your heart pumping. Before you head out on the run, be sure to check if the area you are in is safe for runners and visible to drivers. If you haven’t run in a while, start small by walking first or doing intervals.
Benefits of Working Out
Why Should You Take the Time?
Not only do you become stronger and lose weight when you start working out, but you help improve your overall wellbeing. Working out allows you to strengthen your heart while increasing your stamina because it gets your blood flowing and your heart rate up. Exercising can reduce your chances of getting heart disease, lower your risk of diabetes, hypertension, improve bone health, lower chances of getting sick, increase energy, and improve mental health.
Improve Mental Health
Working out can reduce stress, help you think clearly, and boost your mood by alleviating symptoms of depression or anxiety. Once you begin your workout routine, you will also notice positive changes in your body and health, which can boost your self-confidence. There are many reasons to choose to exercise when you travel, and your mental health should be on the top of the list.
Increase Energy
If you aren’t a morning person getting some exercise to start your day may do you good! Getting in a workout before heading out for the day can help get you going. Exercising in the morning energizes you and improves your circulation since it releases endorphins throughout the day.
Improve Sleep
Instead of going out and buying yourself some melatonin to help you sleep, you can work out instead. When you use your breaks or free time to work out, you make it easier for you to fall asleep for a more extended period when it’s time for bed.
We would love to hear about your workout routines when out on the road! Please leave us a comment or shoot an email to WeCare@m-v-t.com and share your fitness regimens!
Become part of our family of drivers by going to www.DriveForMVT.com.