Photo by Taavi

Following up with our much loved Canadian biker, I asked Taavi about his favorite biking locations. His answer brought up some unexpected, and interesting points. He told me he has many locations he enjoys biking. But mentions Nashville, Tennessee for the “bridge downtown, cycling paths, and farmer’s market.” It certainly is a city with a lot of history and architectural designs. Taavi also mentions Effingham, Illinois for the “amazing trail network one block from the truck stops.” He says the “cement trails there are great not just for biking, but for running and walking too.” This is great for those that don’t carry a folding or regular bike on their truck. Maybe you just want a brisk walk or you carry roller blades or skates.  You have a safe location close to the truck stop to get a good workout, or just take a leisurely walk.

And Taavi tell us you never know who you might meet while you are out for your daily bike ride or walk. One such interesting experience was in Laredo, the old part, when he was out for a bike ride on his Brompton. He was waiting on a corner for the traffic light to change when 4-5 officers on bikes were leaving the nearby station. One of the officers yelled at him to, “Wait!” Taavi’s interesting little folding Brompton caught the officer’s attention and he wanted a closer look. So there he was on the streets of Laredo showing of his conversation piece of a bicycle to the local authorities, having a very pleasant little chat. Before it was all said and done he nearly had all of them convinced to try it.

Photo by Taavi

However, there is an unspoken point in his answers. Just by getting out of your truck and walking a few blocks, across the street, over a bridge you not only get some much-needed exercise and fresh air, but you get to do some sight seeing in some of our country’s oldest cities filled with history. To me that is one the most amazing things about being a truck driver! There is so much history and beauty in this country, and it is right outside of our windshield. Take every opportunity you can to open those doors when you are stopped and explore your surroundings. We use an app for fun called “Geocaching”. It’s a fun little game to get you moving and “treasure hunting”. It’s quite addicting.  How many caches can you find throughout the country?

And while you are out walking around or riding that bike you can find farmer’s markets filled with fresh healthy produce with cheaper prices than you would find at a truck stop, a grocer, or even Wal-Mart. Trust me, it’s fresher too! Keep a little cooler in your truck if you don’t have a small fridge.  That makes it easier to buy those fresh fruits and veggies to eat healthier. You’ll feel better, save money, and have more energy.

Photo by Taavi

When out on those little hikes and rides you may discover entertaining art fairs, musical events, nature at its finest, and a bit of peace and quiet that is impossible to get at a crowded truck stop. Of course, always be aware of your surroundings and be mindful of personal safety. But by getting out and moving you are improving more than just your physical health. Mental health, spiritual health, financial health, entertainment, human interaction, combating boredom, fresh air, and sunlight for much-needed vitamin D are all things needed for overall health maintenance. Be good to yourself, your whole self!

Taavi told me every time he takes his Brompton to go grocery shopping that cute bike turns heads. “The look on people’s faces is priceless.”

He loves his folding bike and loves encouraging people to get healthy.

~Sierra Sugar