Stay Fit and Healthy on the Road: Wellness Tips for 2025

Professional drivers dedicate their lives to putting others first - delivering essential goods, keeping shelves stocked, and ensuring the country runs smoothly. But while you're committed to taking care of others, it's equally important to prioritize yourself. Staying fit and healthy on the road doesn't just benefit you; it makes you a better, safer, and more effective driver. From meal prepping to staying active on the road and taking care of your mental health, here are practical tips to help you focus on your physical and mental well-being while balancing life on the road.

Healthy eating on the road may seem complicated, but you can avoid relying on fast food and unhealthy snacks with the right planning. Meal prepping ahead of time is one of the best ways to stay on track. Here's how to make it work:

• Plan Ahead: Set aside time before you hit the road to prepare healthy meals in bulk. Cook and pack various meals, such as grilled chicken, vegetables, and brown rice, in easy-to-carry containers.
• Portable Snacks: Keep nutritious snacks on hand like nuts, fruits, yogurt, and protein bars. This way, you'll have something healthy and convenient when hunger strikes between meals.
• Use a Cooler: Invest in a good cooler to store perishables like salads, deli meats, and fresh fruits. The cooler will keep your meals fresh and ready to eat.

Just because you're driving doesn't mean you can't stay active. Here are some exercises that can help you stay fit, even with limited space and time:

• Stretching: Stretching helps reduce tension and improve flexibility. Take a few minutes during breaks to stretch your arms, legs, and back. A simple routine of toe touches, shoulder rolls, and hamstring stretches will do wonders.
• Resistance Bands: These lightweight, portable tools are perfect for strength training while on the road. You can use them to perform exercises like bicep curls, squats, and chest presses.
• Walking: Whenever you stop for a break, take a short walk around the truck stop or nearby area. Walking helps with circulation and clears your mind.

Driving long hours can sometimes feel isolating, and stress can build up over time, like in any profession. It's important to take care of your mental health so that you can be at your best. Here are a few tips to manage stress:

• Mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness. Whether it's through deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music, these small moments can help reduce stress.
• Stay Connected: While on the road, stay in touch with loved ones. A quick call or text to family or friends can help you feel connected and grounded.
• Wellness Support: We offer a comprehensive assistance program to support your mental health. With free, confidential counseling services available to both you and your family, you can get help with a wide range of issues, from stress and anxiety to relationship concerns.

For us, your well-being is a top priority. Beyond top pay, we offer a range of benefits designed to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle, including:

• Telemedicine: Consult with a physician 24/7/365, no matter where you are, for any health concerns.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision: Access top-tier health coverage at affordable prices, including dental, vision, and prescription drug services.
• Tobacco Cessation Program: If you're ready to quit smoking, Averitt offers free support and medications to help you break free from nicotine dependence.
• Counseling Services: Free, confidential counseling is available to you and your family, offering support for mental health, relationships, and more.

Staying healthy on the road isn't just about feeling good - it's about being at your best for the long haul. We're here to support you every mile of the way, with industry-leading benefits and wellness programs designed to help you thrive.  Whether it's making smarter meal choices, staying active, or taking care of your mental health, you deserve to feel your best while building a rewarding career.

Ready to experience the health and lifestyle benefits we provide our associates?  We'd love to show you that we truly care about our associates and our benefits reflect it!  Check out our open positions below!