Struggling physically to keep up with work--how to bring it up with boss?

[Coffeetree]

I'm in my probation period in my new job as a lecturer. I love the job, it's a brilliant environment, a good challenge, interesting. Touch wood, they seem really happy with how I'm doing.

The only issue is that it involves some long days travelling to different cities and then delivering classes all day long. There are only one or two "long" days each week and the rest of the days are normal, with a local commute.

The long days wear me out to the point that I'm about to collapse. And I've worked long hours before, I'm in good health, it's just something about getting up at 4, travelling, teaching and really being "on" all day, then travelling for another 2 hours, then up again next am. Last week I got a taxi from the rail station to my flat, even though it's a ten-min walk, because I thought I would pass out.

I was already thinking to mention this at my 3-month review but then I missed my review this week because I was in bed with a Covid-like flu. I haven't been this sick in a decade so clearly linked.

I'm just thinking, how do I bring this up with my lovely boss? I'm not even saying they're unreasonable, it's just not something I'm coping with physically.

Yes I think totally bring it up, not unreasonable at all, but I think be clear if possible about what you’re saying - that you don’t want to do it anymore? That you need a rest day the day after? Etc

do you build up flexi hours for the travel? In my role I would be able to count that travelling time as working hours so then take the time back, the next day if needed.

Yes it can be flex time but realistically I can't take the time back until later in the week. Which sounds reasonable, and is reasonable, but it doesn't help me be less exhausted on the long days.

You say it’s the “being on”, but you’re getting up at 4am!! That’s the deepest part of the night. When I look at my fitness tracker, I don’t get into the best sleep state till about then, and I do go to bed early. You are essentially working a night shift. Of course you’re exhausted.
I can’t see how this is fitting into 35hr a week. Nurses often work 3 x 12 hour shifts then that’s it for the week. Sounds like you’re doing at least two shifts of at least that length then continuing to work 9-5 the rest of the week.

Do all lectures begin at 9am?

On days you get up at 4, what time do you get home and do you have to get up at 4 again the next day but to go to a different city? It doesn't sound like you're getting enough rest.

Doubling up the groups so you have fewer hours sounds good.

Or changing the timetable so you have a local day in between travel days?

it is not in the least unreasonable to be tired out by a 4am waking and long travel, stop thinking that there is something wrong with you.

I think it’s pretty crap that they won’t pay for a hotel TBH. Yes, your travel is the same in total but a 7am wake up is much more civilised.

Sorry if the timings are confusing, it's a bit complicated but basically if I can take the time back I do, otherwise it's overtime.

I appreciate the responses!