Fiat Professional has partnered with Olympic coach and former Team GB athlete James Thie to launch essential health tips for van drivers.
Available online, the guide reveals how drivers can combine exercise and healthier food choices with their working day.
New research by Fiat reveals that van drivers spend the equivalent of one month a year sat behind the wheel.
The van specialist’s poll of 500 adults who drive a van for work found they typically spend three hours a day in their vehicle, whether driving, eating, or taking a break.
Half of those polled eat in their vehicle during the working day, doing so three times a week, with a quarter admitting they have a weak spot for junk food.
And £23.85 a week is spent on food on the go, resulting in £1,240 annually.
With a fifth (21%) of the van drivers polled worried about the impact on their long-term health, the new guidance reveals how to lead a healthier lifestyle.
This includes step-ups which can be performed by getting in and out of the driver’s seat, squats which can be done while loading and unloading the vehicle, and triceps dips off the rear of the van.
The advice also includes what foods to eat and what to avoid when stopping off at service stations and garages.
James Thie, who is also the current World Masters indoor Champion over 1,500 metres, said: “Driving a van for hours at a time requires lots of concentration which is incredibly tiring, and this can mean drivers are too fatigued to exercise.
“It also means drivers are sitting in one position for very long periods of time, putting strain on their bodies, particularly necks, shoulders, and lower backs.
“Being behind the wheel can clearly limit where and when people eat, meaning snacks are relied on and meals are simply grab and go options which aren’t often the healthiest.”
Top tips include planning ahead and prepping food so drivers don’t have to skip meals, ensuring choices are suitable to eat on-the-go and saving money in the long run.
The research also found while 42% know they’d save money by making a packed lunch instead, 31% feel driving a van limits where and when they can eat.
Popular lunchtime stop-offs include fast-food outlets (43%), cafes (39%) and service stations (24%).
When they do manage to stop for a break, 44% use the time to eat or drink, while 43% buy snacks, but 42% make sure they walk around to stretch their legs.
However, 37% scroll through social media and 39% make phone calls.
Damien Dally, managing director of Fiat Professional, said: “While we do everything we can to make our vans as comfortable as possible, it’s important that drivers take the opportunity for regular breaks, getting out of the driver’s seat to move around, loosen up and eat healthy food.
“It can be draining driving for hours at a time and sitting in one position, so naturally caffeine-filled drinks and fast food are a tempting option.
“Hopefully James’ tips show how it is possible to still be healthy and feel better for it in the long term.”
Fiat Professional’s and James Thie’s Essential Health Tips for Van Drivers are here.
