Gamifying wellness: How competition can help drivers age better

Trucking – and the lifestyle that often comes with it – takes a serious toll on drivers. The average life expectancy of a truck driver is just 61 years. That is almost two decades less than the typical American.

This alarming statistic underscores the critical need for widespread driver wellness initiatives. 

In addition to the toll typical trucking lifestyle choices can take on a driver’s lifespan, they reduce their healthspan. Truck drivers face unique health challenges. Access to healthy food is limited, with truck stops offering mostly convenience foods over balanced diet options. Establishing a consistent exercise routine is also difficult for drivers, as they are constantly on the go and often lack the energy to workout after a long day of driving.

These factors can contribute to health issues ranging from obesity to heart disease, impacting both the drivers’ well-being and the industry’s efficiency. Drivers often leave the field prematurely due to health issues that make it difficult to complete their day-to-day tasks or prevent them from recertifying their medical cards.

For carriers, these exits lead to increased recruitment costs and operational disruptions. Investing in driver wellness can address these challenges while also fostering a culture of care and community, ultimately enhancing retention rates.

Becca Mathews, Tenstreet driver engagement client advisor, highlighted some of the benefits associated with wellness programs.

• Reduced health insurance premiums: Healthier drivers can lead to lower insurance costs.
• Enhanced retention: Drivers who feel valued and supported are more likely to remain with their companies.
• Improved recruitment: A reputation for prioritizing driver wellness can attract top talent.

Introducing Tenstreet’s Pulse Wellness

To support carriers in promoting driver health, Tenstreet has launched Pulse Wellness. The solution – housed within the popular Driver Pulse mobile application – is designed to engage drivers in wellness initiatives. 

With Pulse Wellness, carriers can set up customized wellness challenges. According to Mathews, these challenges can revolve around simple – and attainable – tasks like encouraging drivers to drink more water or participate in positive affirmation exercises. 

The platform also incorporates gamification elements, turning health initiatives into interactive and rewarding experiences. When drivers enter into a challenge, they will find a supportive community where they can track their progress and see how their peers are doing via a leaderboard.

This approach both compels drivers to participate in challenges and strengthens the sense of community among drivers.

Ultimately, investing in driver wellness is a strategic move that benefits both drivers and carriers. Programs like Tenstreet’s Pulse Wellness provide the tools needed to promote health, foster community and improve retention rates.

By prioritizing wellness, carriers can ensure their drivers lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. This, in turn, contributes to the overall success of the company.

“We hope that Pulse Wellness sets carriers up to grow, save money and take care of drivers,” Mathews said.

Click here to learn more about Tenstreet’s Pulse Wellness.