You have resolved to start exercising. That’s great. Now make a second resolution. Resolve to keep exercising. For truckers it is a challenge to build a consistent exercise program, so join groups who are around to help you. In the end, though, it is up to you.
Remember this is for a lifetime. You can set up short-term goals. You may want to lose 10 pounds before spring. That is a great goal. You can reach it by taking in fewer calories than you burn. Short-term goals are great motivators. Every time I run I set a goal. I have weekly goals. When I meet my goals, I am encouraged. When I don’t, I am frustrated. Don’t let missing a short-term goal deter you from that second resolution.
Have a plan. Set goals that are within your control. Success is a great motivator. When goals seem too easy, set harder ones. Resolve to exercise 20 minutes five times a week. That is simple enough. Weight loss is a great goal. It is harder to control, though. The time you exercise is within your control.
Keep it simple. Walk. Don’t try to run. Running is simple, but it is hard. Build up your muscles and your wind by walking a little faster and farther. Get to where you can walk at a brisk pace for 20 minutes. Then build up to 30 minutes. Once you can walk briskly for 30 minutes at a time, you can mix in a little running. Walk for a couple of minutes then jog until you get a little tired; walk until you catch your breath, then jog again. Repeat this process and eventually you will be able to run nonstop for 30 minutes. If you wish to just walk and not run, that is great, too. But keep at it.
I know I have written this before: Our world can be all industrial parks and interstates. See something else. Go somewhere. Find a residential neighborhood. Go for a walk or ride a bike. I have found great places like parks and trails while walking or running near a truckstop or a customer.
So get out there and exercise. You never know what you will find and how good you will feel.
