The Trucking Industry Needs a Fitness Overhaul to Jumpstart a Trucking Health Revolution

 

With the trucking industry seeing many changes that prioritize efficiency and productivity, the health of truck drivers has increasingly peaked as a critical concern. With life expectancies for truck drivers averaging 16 years less than the general population, there is an urgent need to address health issues within the industry. Recent initiatives, like the “Trucker’s Squat Across the Country Challenge,” aim to bring fitness and health into the spotlight, encouraging drivers to adopt healthier lifestyles. As the trucking industry grapples with high turnover rates and increasing healthcare costs, finding sustainable health solutions has never been more important.

Can health and wellness programs truly impact the industry’s bottom line?

For the latest segment of “Hammer Down,” host Mike Bush is joined by Dr. Mark Manera, founder and CEO of Offshift. Dr. Manera’s innovative approach to health and wellness in the trucking industry is revolutionizing how companies support their drivers and employees. He discusses the challenges faced by truck drivers, the benefits of targeted health programs, and the tangible ROI for trucking companies on this episode.

A few key points of their discussion:

  • The health challenges faced by truck drivers, including high obesity rates and chronic illnesses.
  • The importance of personalized health plans and the role of concierge health coaches.
  • The impact of improved health on reducing healthcare costs and increasing employee retention.

Dr. Mark Manera is the founder and CEO of Offshift. With a doctorate in physical therapy, Dr. Manera transitioned from working in a PT clinic to becoming a leading advocate for health in the trucking industry. With Offshift, he partners with trucking companies to provide industry-specific health solutions. Dr. Manera has spent years developing relationships within the industry and crafting programs that address the unique needs of truck drivers, from dietary advice to fitness routines.

Article by Alexandra Simon.

Recent Episodes

Volatile tariffs, inflationary pressures, and advances in fleet lifecycle management are forcing trucking executives to make strategic choices under uncertainty. The decision to replace or upgrade Class 8 trucks is no longer just about cost-per-month—it’s about lifecycle value, operational safety, compliance readiness, and long-term competitiveness. As the EV credit deadline approaches and OEMs release…

The freight logistics industry is undergoing a quiet transformation. With financial instability affecting brokerages and shifting commission structures prompting sales talent to explore new paths, the “agent model” — a 1099 contractor framework for freight brokers — is seeing renewed attention. As more logistics professionals seek greater flexibility, ownership, and earnings potential, understanding the…

At the ACT Expo, Hammer Down host Mike Bush dives deeper into the future of freight with a hands-on look at Windrose Technology’s electric Class 8 trucks. Joined by Joseph Jaramillo, Driver Supervisor at Talon Logistics, Mike takes a test drive to experience the smooth ride, dual digital displays, and unique features—like advanced regen modes and a…