A Literature Review: Applying Behavioral Change Theory to Promote Sedentary Behavior Reduction and Physical Activity Among Truck Drivers

Abstract

Sedentary behavior has become a major cause of several diseases. Commercial drivers are at risk of high levels of sedentary behavior, especially truck drivers. Working conditions are an important barrier to healthy behaviors. The total sitting time for truck drivers might be higher than for other occupations. Limited evidence exists of the total sitting time for truck drivers. Therefore, interventions to reduce sedentary behaviors and increase physical activity are needed among truck drivers. The objectives of this article are 1) to review the theory-guided intervention in truck drivers and 2) to describe and provide an example of intervention using an integrated behavior model for reducing sedentary behaviors and increasing physical activity. The review found diverse interventions aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and promoting physical activity across age groups (children, adolescents, adults, or older adults) and settings (community, hospital, or worksite), addressing various health conditions. Delivery methods, including face-to-face and online approaches, vary. These interventions typically incorporate multiple components such as health education, self-monitoring, behavioral targets, or goal-setting. The principal guiding theories are social cognitive theory and the transtheoretical model. The integrated behavior model can serve as a guiding framework for interventions targeted at truck drivers, and the results may be utilized for other commercial drivers.