Imagine having the rag pulled out from under you when you go in for your next DOT physical. They tell you that you are not healthy enough to drive because either your blood pressure, blood sugar, or weight is too high to sustain life for very long.

Soon, only DOT approved and registered physicians will be allowed to perform driver physicals and the standards will be more strict than before.

I often get asked, "How does one get started?" "What motivates a person to simply turn everything on its head and make that lifestyle change?"

Start by being honest with yourself. You know where you stand. Don't compare yourself with others who are worse off than you, but with a fitness standard.

Second, look ahead. ..see yourself as who you would rather be. Feel how it feels to be that. Sound oversimplified? Just try it.

Next, CLEAN HOUSE! Throw out all the unhealthy food stuff from your truck shelves. You don't want it anymore. Replace it with quality, healthy snacks.. .things like raw, fresh veggies and fruits, but only the ones you like to eat. Get a rainbow of colors. (This doesn't mean Skittles.) Here are a few suggestions: strawberries, grapes, oranges, apples, bananas, snow peas, asparagus, broccoli, mini peppers, pears, kiwi, green beans, etc.

Try some beef jerky, some raw mixed nuts, baked chips, pretzels... all in moderation.

Get some exercise. How? The book "Nineteen Wheels" spells out a great exercise program for over-the-road professionals. It also outlines eating strategies for on the road and the entire program costs less than a single bottle of most diet pills. And it works. I lost 175 pounds and 14 pant sizes with this program. So I wrote a book about it. I want everyone to enjoy the benefits of great health, including the benefit of being able to keep driving and being a safer driver.

Solve your body's energy crisis and have a great time doing it. Check out the website www.safetythruwellness.com to see more information and to order the book and 19th wheel. You'll be glad you did.