Driver Profile

Getting back into shape on the road:
Con-way Truckload’s Dan Allison rediscovers healthy living

One of the biggest challenges facing professional truck drivers is staying healthy while behind the wheel. When you combine a job that requires extended periods of sitting with the abundance of high-calorie food options available at truckstops, it can be very difficult for a driver to win the battle of the bulge.
     Con-way Truckload driver Dan Allison knows firsthand just how difficult this can be. Allison worked as a high school band director and history teacher for 14 years before he decided to give professional driving a try, and initially he found it a challenge to stay fit while out on the road.
     “Making the transition to a new career was definitely a lifestyle adjustment,” said Allison. “In the beginning, I started to gravitate toward higher calorie comfort foods.”
     Allison had always been athletic. In high school he ran track and as an adult he competed in century (100-mile) rides and running events. He realized that it was time once again to make his health a priority.
     “For me, I find that good eating habits and exercise are equally important in maintaining a healthy weight,” said Allison. “The first thing I did was focus on changing my eating habits. To decrease my sodium and carbohydrate intake, I started buying things like mesquite turkey and fruits and vegetables to take with me in the truck. I also switched from full-calorie soda to diet and began drinking a lot more water.”
     He also began gradually adding exercise to his routine.
     “We do have small gyms at some of the Con-way terminals, so I started using those whenever I could,” said Allison. “I also began parking further away. I enjoy shooting photographs, so when I go to a city, I make a point of going on a sightseeing walk to take pictures. You can burn a lot of calories just walking around like that.”
     After a few years, he started bringing a bike with him in the truck.
     “I love being able to get out and go for a ride,” said Allison. “Sometimes I go online first and look at the local parks and recreation Web site to find out where the good bike trails are. Also, when I see other drivers with bikes in their trucks I ask them if they have any suggestions for good places to ride in the area. It’s actually a lot easier to incorporate into my life than I thought.”
     Asked if he has any advice for those drivers who would like to start their own fitness routine, he said, “Just start walking; it’s the easiest thing to do. Instead of just sitting in the terminal and watching TV, get outside and explore. Also, think about what you’re eating. There are a lot of cheap, healthy foods that you can buy. If you start getting some moderate exercise and eating better, you will get results.”
     In his spare time, Allison relaxes at his home in Laredo, TX, where he enjoys cycling and windsurfing. He also likes to explore new cities whenever he gets the chance.
     Drivers who are interested in joining the Con-way Truckload team should visit them online at www.con-way.com/truckload or call 866-WORK-4-US (866-967-5487).