How Rucking Benefits Me
When someone asks what my hobbies are, rucking is one that I normally mention. For me, it’s more than just throwing on a weighted pack and going for a walk. It’s about purpose, discipline, and the benefits that come with it—physical, mental, and emotional.
Here are a few reasons why I ruck:
- Fitness with Function
Rucking builds real-world strength and endurance—no machines or fancy gear needed. - Mental Toughness
Walking with weight on your back is sometimes uncomfortable or tiring. It reminds me that growth comes from discomfort. Plus, I often think of what my brother went thru in his CCT training and while deployed to Afghanistan. - Connection to Service
As a tribute to my brother Mark and others who served, rucking helps me stay grounded in gratitude and purpose.
- Community and Camaraderie
Whether it’s a GORUCK event or a casual local ruck, there’s always a shared bond among those who show up and move. At least 50% of the time, I ruck alone, but I also often do it with my young sons and with our local F3 men’s group.- Further: for busy folks, this is a very good option for catching up with friends. It’s the fitness version of “talking on the phone”.
- Time to Think
Rucking gives me space to reflect, pray, and reset without distractions. Bottom line, it helps keep me sane since my life is busy and loud.
- Minimal Gear, Maximum Impact
All you need is a backpack and some weight. Simple, effective, and accessible. Normally I keep mine in my truck, but sometimes leave it by my home office door for easy access to mid-day rucks. It’s a great and convenient way to break up a busy or stressful work day.
If you’ve never tried it, start light and short. You might be surprised what it does for your body—and your mental health.
Why Rucking > Walking (and Easier on Joints than Running)
If you’re wondering how rucking stacks up against other forms of cardio, here’s the short answer: it gives you more with less.
- Burns More Calories Than Walking
Rucking burns about 30–50% more calories than walking at the same pace. That’s because the added weight increases resistance without requiring speed or high impact. For more details and backup facts, see what Michael Easter says about it. - Lower Impact Than Running
Rucking is a low-impact alternative to running, making it easier on your knees, hips, and ankles—especially over long distances. - Better Posture and Core Engagement
The weight forces you to engage your core and maintain good posture. It’s a hidden benefit that improves everyday movement and stability. - Sustainable for the Long Haul
You can ruck for years without the joint wear-and-tear that often comes with high-mileage running.
Want to see what rucking shoes I prefer? Click here.
And, if you’re interested in what I’ve found to be the absolute best rucksacks, CLICK HERE.
Related article:
City Ruck Nashville. If you want to join me on my next City Ruck (Birmingham, AL, Nov 22, 2025). Register here for the 12 miler and let me know.
I’ve been using GORUCK products since 2015. And yes, I am a GORUCK affiliate–b/c I tested their gear for 8 years before becoming one. I trust what they produce–all of it.
