You don’t have to drop thousands of dollars on expensive strength machines to maintain a truck driver fitness program. (And even if you did, where on earth would you store it?!)
Some of the best trucker workouts can be done with inexpensive (or free!) equipment, all of which is usable on the road in the confines of a semi truck. Below are six inexpensive pieces of workout equipment for every budget.
Around $50
Travel Stair Stepper
For those who aren’t too keen on the idea of going on a walk/run around the truck stop, a portable stair stepper is a viable option for the road. This particular stair stepper gives users a great cardio workout while also toning the lower body. Resistance on the stepper is adjustable, and included are two resistance bands to help with a full-body workout at the same time.
$30 and Under
Resistance Bands
If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, a set of resistance bands in varying strengths is a good way to go. Resistance bands are inexpensive, and with different weights, a variety of strength exercises can be done even with limited space. Resistance bands also offer the ability to get creative with routines. For example, loop them through the door handle of your truck to easily work your upper body!
Pick them up here for about $31
Dumbbells
Depending on the desired weight, you can find dumbbells to keep on the truck for pretty cheap. Dumbbells add lots of variety to your strength training on the road, and can be used without leaving the truck. We’ve featured several dumbbell workouts on our site over time, including this one from Todd McCann.
Pick a set of dumbbells up for about $23
Jump Rope
Another great option for a cardio workout is a simple jump rope. Jump ropes are very inexpensive and one of the easiest pieces of equipment to store on the truck. There are several different jump routines you can do as well to get a full body workout on top of your cardio.
Did you know you’d have to run an 8 minute mile to work off more calories than you burn jumping rope? Jumping for about 30 minutes will burn approximately 300 calories. You could also add jump roping in the form of a circuit – for example, adding jump roping to an existing cardio/strength routine is a surefire way to get a great workout on the road.
Free
Don’t worry, we didn’t forget about you frugal drivers out there! The following are a couple ways to get a great workout in on the road without spending any money:
Bodyweight
Bodyweight exercises are a great way to begin an exercise program because they require no equipment and better yet, no money spent! But on top of that, they also give you a legitimately good workout. The best bodyweight exercises to do on the road include push-ups, squats, and lunges.
Free Exercise Videos
Lastly, YouTube is a great source for free workout videos. For the beginner who isn’t really sure where to start, online videos can be a great way to become familiar with different exercises and training methods. And better yet, virtually every different type of workout is online! From yoga, to cardio, to dumbbell workouts, there’s something for everyone.
Pssst…we have a YouTube channel with helpful workouts for truck drivers. Learn some ways to up your truck driver fitness here.
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