You step outside and start walking…pretty simple, right?
Yeah…but rucking is a bit more complicated than that.
Okay…so you load up your backpack with a few old algebra and history textbooks, strap on a good pair of rucking boots and get marching!
Yeah, naw…a ruck march is slightly more intense than walking home from school was.
I apologize if I shattered your visions of grandeur regarding all things “rucking”; despite what you may have seen on TV (especially in recent times) it’s actually a pretty challenging practice.
Let’s go over the in’s and out’s of the “standard” ruck march, to include historical practices as well as directive on how you can crush your first big event.
…or…at least make it through without developing too many blisters!
Table of Contents
Ruck March: Overview & Benefits
A ruck march, or a loaded march, is primarily a military training exercise. It involves walking long distances with a weighted pack (most often a rucksack or a ruck is used).
The loaded march as a military exercise dates all the way back to the seventh century BC, with the world’s first iron-clad army. Assyrian spearmen carried loads of 27.5 and 36.5 kilograms (roughly 60 to 80 pounds) in the form of the iron armor, helmets, and iron-shinned boots they wore and the heavy shields, swords, and spears they carried.
(sorry; I don’t have any links or connections for you to pick up this “rucking gear”!)
Later, loaded marches were part of the training of legionnaires in the Roman Empire. They were taught how to march with heavy loads before even learning how to hold their weapons.
Today, loaded marches are a part of training in the military in different countries: British Armed Forces, French Foreign Legion, Canadian Armed Forces, and, of course, the United States Armed Forces.
Not in the military? No problem! Ruck marches can be adapted for civilians, too. “Formal” rucking events are often held as fundraisers for veterans and as a celebration of comradery..
In any case, the ruck march is a great exercise for building strength and stamina, as well as mental resilience and discipline.
Some benefits of ruck marches (for both military servicemembers and civilians) are:
- Provide a challenging cardiovascular workout
- Improve overall physical performance
- Increases calorie burn
- Improve muscle power in older people and prevent sarcopenia
- Improves posture and balance
- Builds stamina and endurance
- Builds mental resilience and discipline
- Great as a community and social engagement