At All About Trucks and Translab, we know how vital a driver’s health is, because it directly affects safety on the road. That’s why we’re closely following initiatives designed to help combat health issues in the industry. Two online platforms created with truck drivers’ health in mind are joining forces to improve their health, safety, and extend their lives.
An Alarming Health Crisis
The average life expectancy for truck drivers in the United States is just 61 years, which is about 16 years shorter than the average for the rest of the population. This is an alarming statistic that directly results from the many health problems drivers face. The main causes are widespread obesity and diabetes, which are consequences of a sedentary lifestyle, irregular working hours, and limited access to healthy meals on the road. Studies indicate that over 80% of drivers are overweight or obese. This leads to a number of serious illnesses, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and sleep apnea, which shorten lives and increase the risk of road accidents. Jeremy Reymer, founder of Project 61, believes that investing in driver health is the most effective way to reduce risk in transportation, because a healthy driver is a safer driver.
A Powerful Partnership
Offshift, a platform created by physical therapist Mark Manera, specializes in health programs tailored to a driver’s lifestyle. Instead of offering typical hour-long gym workouts, Offshift suggests 5-10 minute exercises that can be done in the truck cabin and teaches small, daily nutrition habits. Now, Offshift has joined Project 61, a non-profit organization that confronts the serious health crisis in the transportation industry.
Technology as a Solution
Thanks to the acquisition, the Offshift platform, which was previously a paid employee program, is now completely free. Reymer believes that technology is key to improving driver health on a large scale. Almost every driver has a smartphone, which makes accessing the app easy. Reymer also plans to use activity trackers to monitor users’ progress, including sleep quality and step count. These devices will allow for a better-tailored program for individual drivers and motivate them to exercise regularly and take care of their health. The Offshift app offers a comprehensive program that focuses on diet, exercise, and sleep. It teaches you how to work out in your truck and eat healthily on the road. Additionally, it builds a community where drivers can support each other and participate in group challenges. Mark Manera will now serve as president and director of health at Project 61.
A Breakthrough for the Industry
The merger of Offshift and Project 61 is a major step toward improving the health of truck drivers. The program, which was previously only available for a fee, is now completely free, which can help combat the health crisis in the transportation industry. This is a groundbreaking solution that turns awareness into concrete action, offering proven methods for a healthier and longer life.
By combining technology with practical guidance, the app enables every driver to take small, daily steps toward better well-being. Interested? You can find the Offshift app in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android devices.
All About Trucks & Translab wishes you a wide and safe road! We put Truckers first!
