Van drivers report increasing health issues

As a result, a fifth (21 per cent) worry the amount of driving they do will impact their long-term health. 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.

The research was commissioned by Fiat Professional, which has teamed up with former Team GB athlete and endurance coach for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, James Thie (pictured), to curate the Van Driver Health Guide.

It 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, 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. Planning ahead could include prepping food so they don’t have to skip meals, ensuring choices are suitable to eat on-the-go and saving money in the long run. What might seem like a cheap takeaway coffee and snack may not be particularly nutritious and will also add up financially.”

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