From Trucker to Health Advocate

Bob Perry felt destined for a life in trucking, shaped by a family legacy of over 60 years of combined driving experience. Born in northeast Ohio, he joined the family tradition in 1972, taking the wheel of his first truck. However, after a year of driving, Bob realized that trucking wasn’t his passion.

A Shift in Career Path

Though he stepped away from driving, Bob remained connected to the trucking industry. By 1975, he transitioned into healthcare, managing fitness centers while understanding the unique challenges faced by truck drivers. He recognized the need for wellness support tailored specifically to their lifestyle.

Connecting Health and Trucking

About two decades ago, Bob began sharing health information with medical clinics that served truck drivers. A pivotal moment in 2008 occurred at a Georgia truck stop, where conversations with drivers highlighted their dissatisfaction with their health. Armed with practical tips, Bob witnessed immediate improvements in their well-being.

Expanding Influence

Thanks to his early success, Bob expanded his clientele, working with companies like Sherwin-Williams and Greyhound Bus Lines. He realized that driver health impacts their families and the trucking industry as a whole, so he dedicated himself to improving wellness among this population.

Rolling Strong Initiative

In 2009, Bob launched “Rolling Strong,” an initiative promoting health awareness among drivers through self-service health stations and a wellness app. He collaborated with Freightliner to create “The Fit System,” an in-cab gym aimed at enhancing driver fitness.

Fit to Pass Program

Bob’s latest program, “Fit to Pass,” encourages drivers to maintain their health year-round, easing the anxiety of passing DOT medical exams. The program draws inspiration from a successful driver who improved his health drastically in 90 days. Bob collaborates with Espyr for ongoing support to drivers, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health.

Ongoing Advocacy

Despite stepping away from driving nearly 40 years ago, Bob remains actively engaged in promoting driver health, addressing both physical and mental wellness. Through his writings in The Trucker, he aims to offer practical tips and inspiration, reminding drivers that minor lifestyle changes can significantly impact their ability to maintain their CDL.