Nicole Patterson: A Fit Truck Driver
Professional truck driver Nicole Patterson maintains her fitness routines both at home and while on the road.
Background in Fitness
Prior to obtaining her CDL in 2019 and becoming a truck driver, Nicole worked as a personal trainer and fitness instructor, in addition to participating in bodybuilding competitions.
Commitment to Fitness on the Road
As she embarked on her trucking career, Nicole remained devoted to her fitness goals despite spending weeks away from home.
Success in Fitness Competitions
I became aware of Nicole’s fitness talents a few years ago when she participated in a driver fitness contest I organized, winning first place in two out of three categories and earning significant rewards from Michelin and Alcoa wheels.
Daily Routine and Workouts
Nicole, who currently drives a local route, emphasizes the importance of staying active: “As a local driver, I often find myself getting in and out of my truck up to 20 times a day. Eating well and maintaining a lean physique is crucial for my job and helps prevent injuries,” she explained.
Her workout regimen combines Pilates, yoga, strength training, and cardio, based on the PiYo program developed by Chalene Johnson, a program she previously taught. She exercises six days a week, dedicating about 30 minutes to each session.
Nutrition and Meal Timing
Nicole sticks to a diet of low glycemic meals and has adapted her eating schedule to accommodate her driving job. She consumes three meals within an eight-hour window each day, fasting for the remaining 16 hours.
“I start my day with a workout before heading out for my 10- to 14-hour shift,” she said. For breakfast, she has half a cup of eggs and oatmeal with ground flaxseed, occasionally adding a freshly baked muffin. Her lunch, eaten on the go, consists of a small green apple with an ounce of unsalted mixed nuts for protein. “I have ample energy for the day,” she noted. Dinner is typically homemade, often utilizing leftovers from prior meals if she has a late workday.
