Van drivers are spending the equivalent of a month each year behind the wheel, according to a recent poll. This has led to concerns, with a fifth worrying that the amount of driving they do could impa

The survey of 500 adults who drive a van for work revealed that they typically spend three hours a day in their vehicle, whether driving, eating or taking a break.

Van drivers are spending the equivalent of a month each year behind the wheel, according to a recent poll. This has led to concerns, with a fifth worrying that the amount of driving they do could impact their long-term health.

The survey of 500 adults who drive a van for work revealed that they typically spend three hours a day in their vehicle, whether driving, eating or taking a break. Interestingly, half of those polled admitted to eating in their vehicle during the working day, doing so three times a week, with a quarter confessing they have a weak spot for junk food.

This is also having an impact financially, as on average, £23.85 a week is spent on food on the go, totalling up to £1,240 annually.

The research was commissioned by Fiat Professional, which has collaborated with Team GB former athlete and endurance coach for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, James Thie, to create its Van Driver Health Guide focusing on meals, motivation and movement.

The guide includes exercises such as step-ups, which can be performed by getting in and out of the driver's seat, squats while loading and unloading the vehicle, and triceps dips off the rear of the van. It also provides advice on 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 1500 metres, commented: "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."

"Being stuck in one position for extended periods of time can put a lot of strain on drivers' bodies, particularly their necks, shoulders and lower backs," the study revealed.

The research also highlighted that being behind the wheel can limit when and where people eat, leading to a reliance on snacks and quick, often unhealthy, grab-and-go meals.

The study suggested that planning ahead could involve preparing food in advance to avoid skipping meals, ensuring choices are suitable for eating on the move 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."

Interestingly, while 42 per cent of respondents acknowledged they'd save money by making a packed lunch, 31 per cent felt that driving a van restricted their eating options.

Nearly half (48 per cent) admitted they never know if they'll be near a restaurant or shop, while others were concerned about not having access to a microwave at work (46 per cent) or food spoiling if left in the vehicle (42 per cent).

And a third (32 per cent) argued that there are little or no healthy options to choose from at places like petrol stations and service stations.

But 32 per cent of those polled, via OnePoll.com, work night shifts and feel it's difficult to eat healthily when doing so (35 per cent) and snack more often than they would during the day (32 per cent).

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."

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