For many truckers, the best and worst part of the job is the long hours of solitude on the road. It can be a real challenge to stay focused, especially as you get more tired from being behind the wheel for hour after hour. But here are three ways that you can cope with the long haul.
Put Rest First
The main part of what makes a long distance drive so rough is the exhaustion. Some people don’t understand how sitting for a few hours could be so tiring, but it really takes a toll once you add the amount of focus it takes to stay safe on the road. But the good news is that there are a couple of ways that you can prepare. First and most important is to make sure that you get a good night’s rest before you set off. But another thing you should do is schedule rest times during your drive. This will go a long way to making you feel more alert and healthy while driving.
Work on Posture
Another silent killer in a long haul is sitting the same way for too long. Your body can get broken down by bad posture without you even realizing it. Sure, it helps to get out of the rig to stretch your legs from time to time, but it’s better to be prepared. Look into comfortable, ergonomic seats that will help your posture. Not all of them are as expensive as they might sound and even, so it’s a good investment to make sure you don’t get caught off guard by your back locking up.
Fuel for You
Of course, it’s important to keep your truck fueled for a long trip, but it’s even more vital that you are properly fueled as well. There is a stereotype that truckers are notorious for loading up on junk food. But the reality is that there are very few places to stop a large semi-truck to get healthier options. Although some truck stops are getting better at this, it’s good to make sure that you pack healthy snacks for your long drive. Whether that is carrot sticks or low-sodium trail mix, healthy snacks will make you feel better overall.
Baltimore Freightliner-Western for all Your Trucking Needs!
Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Tags: driving safety, healthy living tips, truck driver health, trucking basics, trucking lifestyle