PLAN AHEAD – Prepare before hunger strikes. Of course, it would be easy to head to McDonald’s for another Big Mac. That’s why it’s best to have your meals planned out before you even step in your truck. Having a meal already prepared will keep you from thinking of other food options. Try: Sandwich • Salad • Turkey Burger • Veggie Pasta Salad • Wrap. Another plan-ahead action would be to do some research on gym chains (the YMCA, Planet Fitness, etc.) in your region. After you max out your driving hours for the day, find the closest gym for some workout time.
SNACK SMART – When a lot of your stops are at convenience stores, those chocolate bars can look pretty delish…but not healthy. There are plenty of tasty AND healthy options of snacks for you. For example – while you are at the gym, grab some fresh, drinking water and avoid other calorie-filled drinks. Also, grab a ziplock bag and fill it up with your fave (healthy) snack like the following:
Try: Snap Peas • Easy Peel Oranges • Dried Fruit • Protein Bars • Pretzels • Nuts • String Cheese
COUNT YOUR CALORIES – There are plenty of “apps for that” for Android and iOS. The following apps make it easy for you to track how many calories you consume in a day. You might be surprised by how much you are actually eating.
Try: MyFitnessPal • Fooducate • Lose It! • MyPlate
JUMP, JUMP! – On the road and don’t have enough space to store your workout gear? THINK AGAIN. Let’s throw back to the old school days and grab a jump rope. When you stop at a rest area, get in a quick workout by jumping rope. No need for lots of space or equipment to get in some aerobic excercise! Jump rope not your thing? Maybe keep some free weights in your truck or do some push ups!
WALK IT OUT – And while you’re at the rest stop – take a walk. Even five minutes is better than nothing! A brisk ten-minute walk can burn more than 50 calories!