by Danielle Antosz
Tampa Bay taxi drivers have a tough job. While sitting down and driving a car all day might not be as physically demanding as, say, a construction job, it can still wreak havoc on your health. What is even worse is that many taxi drivers do not have health insurance or paid sick days. If you drive a taxi it is up to you to cover your health costs - even if your poor health is caused by your job.
The Effects of Driving a Tampa Bay Taxi on your Health
The fact is Tampa taxi drivers often spend as many as 12 hours a day sitting down while working a high stress job. This type of lifestyle is terrible for your health. In fact, medical studies show that sitting down for most of the day increases the chance that you will die by over 50%. Add the stress of the job and a poor diet eaten on the run, taxi drivers are at a serious risk of heart attack or stroke. So what can you do to improve your health? You don’t need to overhaul your entire lifestyle – even just a few small changes to your day will make you happier and healthier.
Eat Better
The poor diet of many taxi drivers is only part of the problem, but is still very important. First, you need to eat less junk food. It is awfully convenient to drive through during a quick break, but try packing a light lunch a few times a week. Even a sandwich and a few chips are better than a greasy burger and salty fries. Also, try substituting water for soda or coffee. Water contains less calories and also helps flush toxins from your system.
Get Exercise!
As humans we are not meant to be sedentary. Our bodies are designed to walk, hunt, and run. Sitting behind a steering wheel all day increases your stress level, causes heart problems, and results in weight gain. But, you don’t have to spend hours pumping iron at the gym. The Mayo Clinic says that a daily brisk walk can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your mood, strengthen your bones, and help prevent heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
Take a Vacation
If you are a taxi driver, you know how stressful the job can be. And without paid vacation time, taking time off can be difficult. Think of it as an investment in your future – taking a few days off to relax (along with a few other lifestyle changes!) can result in better health for years to come.
Driving a taxi is not an easy job – drivers deal with long hours, high stress, and most drivers eat a poor diet. If you drive a taxi, it is important to take the time to take care of yourself. For your friends, and all those who love you.
