Health Behind the Wheel: The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything

This story was shared anonymously by one of the many truckers who’ve connected with us since we launched Big Weight, Big Freight — a wellness initiative from the On The Clock family, dedicated to supporting drivers in living healthier, stronger lives on the road.

I didn’t think much about my health. Most drivers don’t.

Between back-to-back runs, fast food wrappers piling up on the passenger seat, and sleeping in parking lots more often than in beds — I figured this was just how it was. You move freight. You sacrifice comfort. You put your head down and grind.

Until my body said “no more.”

It started with chest tightness one night on I-25. Just a few seconds. Enough to scare me into pulling over. The ER said it wasn’t a heart attack — “just stress, poor diet, lack of sleep.” But it felt like a warning. One I couldn’t ignore.

The Problem No One Talks About

This industry runs on deadlines, not diets.

We glorify the hustle, but we don’t talk about how hard it is to stay healthy in this line of work. And if you don’t take care of your body, it will break down — either slowly or all at once.

• Sleep apnea from weight gain
• High blood pressure from fast food and stress
• Sore knees and backs from years of bouncing in the cab

It’s not about vanity — it’s about survival.

What I Changed (And What You Can Too)

I didn’t overhaul everything overnight. I couldn’t. But I made three changes that stuck:

1. I made the sleeper cab a no-food zone.
   If I was gonna eat junk, I had to get out of the truck to do it. Most days, that meant I just didn’t bother.
2. I bought a cheap pair of resistance bands and committed to 10 minutes a day.
   Doorframe rows, truck step-ups, standing planks against the trailer. Doesn’t sound like much. But you feel it after a week.
3. I drank water like it was fuel.
   Because it is. It keeps the brain sharp, the hunger down, and the gut happy.

This Isn’t Preachy — It’s Real

I’m still on the road. Still hauling freight. Still chasing miles. But I’ve lost 27 pounds. I sleep better. I feel stronger. And I don’t feel like my body is working against me anymore.

If you’re a driver, know this: you don’t have to choose between making a living and keeping your health. You can have both — if you make the right moves.

We’re Building Something Bigger

At On The Clock Logistics, we’re not just moving freight — we’re pushing for better lives behind the wheel.

That’s why we created Big Weight, Big Freight — a wellness movement from the On The Clock family that’s part health, part community, and all heart. Because sometimes, the first step toward change is simply knowing you’re not alone.

💬 Share Your Story

Have you made a change? Faced a scare? We want to hear it. Hit reply, comment, or tag us. You might just inspire someone else.

Your body is your rig. Keep it running strong.
Health Behind the Wheel starts with one decision.