Why You Should Ruck | Huckberry with Michael Easter

bit.ly/3i2wegf | For more on rucking from Michael, head to The Journal.
Our friend Michael Easter, walks our own Ben O'Meara through the benefits of rucking (literally), during a weighted hike through the snow in Park City, Utah. Michael, who spent more than a month hiking and living in the Arctic Circle for his book The Comfort Crisis, has experienced the benefits of rucking first-hand and has pushed himself to the limits in the process.
Michael Easter is also contributing editor at Men's Health magazine, columnist for Outside magazine, and professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His work has appeared in over 60 countries and can also be found in Men's Journal, New York, Vice, Scientific American, Esquire, and others. He lives in Las Vegas on the edge of the desert with his wife and two dogs.
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[@Huckberryco]

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[@DeanMD77]

What boots are the guys wearing? Love the rucking philosophy. Starting to recommend to my patients in my family medicine practice.

[@lazaromartinez1468]

Accidentally got into rucking. My son was born and I dislike the idea dropping him in a stroller. My family and wife’s family said I need a stroller but I saw the tiny women on National Geographic carry their babies up mountains so I knew I could do it. I carry my son for four miles a day and love the connection we make. I was already fit but had to stop working out. I noticed great improvements in my fitness just by carrying my son. Now my wife and I argue over who gets to carry our son. She wants the results I’ve gotten. Best exercise ever AND amazing for my son!

[@cactustex666]

I’m 70. Just did my 1st Ruck today. 28+ lbs. 4.25 miles in hour. Awesome. Love it. I’m small too, 150. Will stay at 20-30 for few trips. I’m in great shape already. 50-75 push ups each day plus dumbells

[@devonstultz4529]

You're awesome im seeing so many people in comment sections like yourself taking care of themselves. Much respect 🫡

[@cactustex666]

@@devonstultz4529 thanks

[@cactustex666]

Update: 6 months now almost, and over a hundred miles. Awesome. It’s not an ex cerise, but an adventure. Worked out all the kinks and issues and still going strong. Thanks ruckers and Mav v1’s. Awesome mid rise boots- Go Ruck.

[@Besotted85]

Thats pretty damn good lol!

[@fishmonger6879]

Why hasn’t anyone called bs on you?

[@jeganka]

Been rucking every week for several months now. My core has turned hard as iron and I’ve lost a lot of fat. I’m a small guy so I only ruck 20-25 lbs but wow what a workout!!

[@getout116]

How far are you going during each outing?

[@dude861]

The romans were small to modern people. Yet the soldiers in the legions had to carry between 40 and 50 kg, marching long distances and building up camps etc after. That of course is not safe especially for people like us, who grew up sitting way too much. Just to open up your mind towards what our bodies are actually capable of doing.

[@m-hadji]

By adding 30 lbs backpack to my 1 hour daily walk, I improved my blood glucose almost 15% better. According to my CGM. I am experiencing it as 57 years old 193 lbs man on low carb lifestyle. I think it would be good addition to my efforts on fighting diabetes.

[@Huckberryco]

Hell yeah!!

[@GoneCarnivore]

How's it going now on your diet and training?

[@m-hadji]

Still going great

[@arc9812]

You can also do squats, pushups, and walk up stairs while rucking for a full body workout

[@cgillit]

Best shape of my life is when I went backpacking through Southeast Asia for 7 months. No large overland trekking trips or extra high cardio workouts. Just carrying ~20 lbs of clothes/toiletries on my back moving from one place to another. This was paying absolutely no mind to my diet, which generally consisted of eating my weight in fried foods, starchy noodles and over indulging on beer almost every night. I've never been able to get back down to that weight again and fitness level again since I've lived a daily domestic life back at home, no matter how strict I keep my diet or how rigorous I keep my workout routine.

[@anthonymwanje8398]

Greetings from Uganda East Africa, am 61, am gonna give it a shot 😊

[@elderbieler]

As an Army vet and a person that's been rucking for 10+ years, IMHO a weighted vest (even weight distribution on front + back) is not only more effective at displacing weight across each plane of the body, which has all kinds of physical and physiological benefits, but it helps prevent disproportionate stress on the lower back. By having equal weight distribution, it forces more active engagement in the core and inherently optimizes for posture and gait. To each their own though. As long as you're moving and progressing.

[@Potbellypugilist]

I started doing an occasional ruck a few years back after reading an article off the "art of manliness" Web page. This year I've started doing two rucks per week, using around 45lbs. It's a good simple way to keep fit and strong, and you can make it as hard or as easy as you want! Personally I favour hilly/moutain trails and I seem to get the most bang for my buck! Like I said, a good simple way to keep fit just as long as you dont expect to look like a bodybuilder/crossfitter😂 also you don't need to buy expensive brand bags or plates, cheap sturdy bag will do.

[@rationalcase]

Glad I found this! …I’m now going to put my weight-vest in my rucksack!

[@topsysdad1]

I did the very same

[@stoicvibesonly]

I used to love carrying my kids on my back in a backpack kid carrier. Miss this days

[@georgealonso1279]

Utilize bags of rice. Keep your weight as high as possible. Use a waist strap for heavy loads. Lengthen your stride and swing your hips. Be prepared to shed layers because you heat up very quickly. Wool socks such as darn toughs are the way to go. A common benchmark pace is 15:00/mile.

[@Medevicerep]

OK, why rice?

[@georgealonso1279]

@@Medevicerep it’s dense, cheap, and relatively ease to pack.

[@palmerstubbs4067]

@@georgealonso1279 Personally I use some old bricks, never thought about rice though

[@tonyserinoartist]

I plan to ruck regularly through this upcoming winter. Any other tips on what to wear? I have the boots covered

[@MikeCollinsCinemaMercantile]

This is what got me started with rucking. I've got a 20 for when I am going to the supermarket and a 30 for trails. Just ordered a GoRuck 16L Bullet Ruck from Huckberry. Can't wait for it to arrive :)

[@Hypno_Llama]

I go heavy (85lbs ) for 1 mile. I go medium (55lbs) for 2-3 miles. And I go light (30 lbs) for 5 to 6 miles. All trying to keep 3.5 mph pace....very difficult for most men right off the bat but very achievable for nearly all men after time spent rucking.

[@fortyoneshades]

For rucking heavy weight you really need a pack with a frame and an integrated waist belt to distribute the weight properly. I purchased a Gregory 30L. Great pack with a lifetime guarantee. Too many guys blowing out their lower back rucking without a proper pack.

[@tadcobert1307]

Yes yes YES! Unless you are a super athlete and need the shoulder/chest stress, then having a waist belt is a MUST to prevent injury! As a 28yr Army Veteran and someone who started backpacking at 13yrs old, I have used all kinds of bags/packs/rucks and I now use an old OD Green Large ALICE ruck w/frame & upgraded straps/belt. I absolutely love it, best balance of all the factors.

[@cben86]

what about using a rearward facing hip pack to keep the weight off your back?

[@fortyoneshades]

@@cben86 Weight would be too low. You want the weight close to your back about half way between your waist and shoulders.

[@richardgonzales17]

Started rucking about 2 months ago now usually twice a week with about 45 lbs at a little higher elevation usually around 8500 ft and its a pretty good workout for sure

[@BigBluenoser]

What gear setup are you using? Round or square plate?

[@Ornelas11B]

6 years of rucking in the US Army Infantry here.

[@GOODERKIND]

4 years Army Infantry !Eleven Charlie!! #fkngrnt

[@tatankahanska120]

88N Army here. But I Ruck 10 miles for my health

[@rogueskypilot4116]

Chinese spies watching here.

[@blackvaginafinda2706]

@@rogueskypilot4116 Chinese spy here

[@microMobilidade]

Ziploc rolls filled with 2lbs and 5lbs of concrete are a great way to diy a starting ruck. I use a SADF pattern 70 10 liter backpack

[@palmerstubbs4067]

Don't waste money on concrete it can get expensive lol, just use bticks

[@wingandhog]

I use free sandbags and sand from a pile at my nearest fire station. It’s provided by the county and there for anyone who wants it. I wrap each sandbag with duct tape. Works for me and I can increase / decrease weight as needed.

[@blkcpdconure]

Kelty Tioga 5500 is a great pack for rucking since the external frame makes it capable of heavy load hauling comfort.

[@micahkitchens2480]

That canvas GR1 though… 🤤

[@Rurik8118]

With that fresh snow, fack ruckin, go skiing 🎿

[@CommunistCommando1]

Rucking has totally changed my body from soft and flabby to toned and muscular.

[@CommunistCommando1]

A low-Impact exercise that punches way above its weight. Something Gyms I think kept a close guarded secret, and it's Free! Pick a Hill!

[@devonstultz4529]

My ruck has been pushing a wheel barrel for the pass 3 weeks doing work in my yard.

[@krantidhh]

I am going rucking starting tomorrow. ❤

[@daa5249]

And how has it been going?

[@rube3k969]

I tried rucking but with a weighted vest (10kg) and it really hurt my lower back. I know it sounds weird but maybe I really do need to carry the weight in a 'rucksack' Any advice or tips welcome as although it put me out for 4 days, I loved the experience and don't want to quit. Edit: I'm an idiot. I got 1:30 into the video and he clearly answered my question. Apologies.

[@Huckberryco]

been there - done that. Keep rocking and rucking!

[@edmundostefany7279]

That’s what I use , I go with 30 , then when u take it off , u feel really light 🔥🔥

[@moopuna]

We're the only animal that can carry stuff an appreciable distance? Horses? Cattle?

[@fatmanfaffing4116]

That weight will not keep you warm if you trip and break your leg and have to survive the night waiting for rescue. Why not carry 30lb or 15kg of useable stuff? A sleeping bag, water, dry clothes etc? Makes more sense to me than a weight but then I did my first rucking in the army.

[@leonardmilcin7798]

I think vest is strictly better if you are just looking at health and posture. But it also looks creepy as hell and I think does not prepare you as well for carrying actual backpack. And is not as versatile. You can put literally anything in your backpack like your groceries.

[@donaldstarnes419]

I fell recently running and Im 74 I have now started rucking 😀 no more running for me

[@Huckberryco]

We're big believers in rucking -- great activity for all ages. Glad you're still getting out there!

[@maximusaugustus6823]

I didn't know this was a thing. Now I will be rucking with my camera backpack that weighs 20 lbs.

[@AnnapolisGirly]

I’m a 62 year old woman. Slightly out of shape but formerly pretty athletic. I just retired and am curious if anyone has recommendations for starting out. Of course, thank you in advance.

[@Brainwashedmorons69]

Start with around 5 or ten pounds, see how you feel,don't push for a certain time or distance. Your body will adapt very quickly.

[@GoneCarnivore]

Running is dumb, I like the gym but Rucking is outdoors so thats cool 😎

[@kingvranadong]

It’s wild to me that there isn’t an affiliate link to weights or backpacks in the description.

[@Huckberryco]

Good call! We'll add one.

[@whatcarisit6665]

Any negatives for the spine? Increase compression?

[@donmcdowell131]

Backpack vs vest. I don’t agree - vest keeps my posture normal or straight instead of hunched over fighting the weight.

[@danoyse8233]

Hello, I’m 143 pounds, nearly 66yo, female. I would like to increase muscle, my age and weight loss seems to have depleted a lot of muscle. Only run I do is 5k park run on Saturdays, with all the others, but can’t say I enjoy it. I swim 1k 3 times a week. What weight would you recommend to start. Best wishes from Devon uk

[@Huckberryco]

Hey there! Great to hear you're still staying active and interested in Rucking. Best practice is usually starting with about 10% of your body weight -- so even a backpack with 10-15lbs would be a good starting point. Keep us posted on your progress!

[@yogahippie7709]

I work from home and have stumbled upon rucking from realizing my yoga was not enought to get a deficet.

[@jc4evur661]

If you even have the slightest back problems consult with your chiro before taking up rucking!

[@davidash2727]

Looks fun, no snow here in.Fl just humidity

[@shaunbell5098]

Just started rucking again. Used to love sticking my daughter in a carry pack and walking around. Now I use bags of sand😀

[@arc9812]

Where should the weight be? Higher up near the shoulder, or mid or lower back?

[@AustinT_34]

Hey! What type of winter coats are you guys wearing? Are they for sale on the website?

[@Huckberryco]

It really depends on the occasion and how you like to layer. I'm partial to down-fill when the temps dip. Head on over to the link below to check out some of the warmest jackets this season. bit.ly/48pq26D

[@coyoteclone]

How much wood could a woodchuck ruck, if a woodchuck could ruck wood?

[@pgfrmr]

Probably around 30lbs!

[@frankthetank8712]

Alright. 40 years old. Overweight (6 foot, 240 lbs). Really interested in starting. Opened to recommendations on type of rucksack (I'm looking for comfort) and any other useful advice.

[@Huckberryco]

Great to hear you're interested, and rucking is something that anyone can do. What we'd recommend is getting out there and starting with lighter weights -- even some filled up waterbottles in your backpack is a fine place to start. Eventually working your way up to putting a ruck-plate in your backpack (can put it in the backpack sleeve of most backpacks). A common piece of advice is start with no more than 10% of your body weight (in your instance 20-25lbs). In terms of Rucksacks, our favorite is the ones that GoRuck produces. And we actually just did a video with the founder of GoRuck here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXnRZ5yCiZWAZqM Hope that was helpful!

[@indianronin01]

Hi bro, I live in an inner city area. My question is , Can rucking be performed on treadmill indoors? (Only for fitness)

[@hunzren]

I ruck exclusively in cities. If you have room to walk to have room to ruck

[@Lowe-life]

Rucking is cool. Good info. Thanks, but…. Claiming running is high risk is doing a disservice to people interested in being active.

[@sanjaysable2006]

I'm 56 and recently taken up rucking and enjoying with 10 kgs, oops 23 lbs. 🙏😊

[@hiddenwoodsben]

alice filled with waterbottles.

[@mma4bryan]

With winter approaching again, what boot do you use or recommend for cold weather rucking?

[@Huckberryco]

yo - personally love Danner Loggers for this job. Waterproof, tough as nails. You will need to insulate with wool socks. bit.ly/3Uf46Uw

[@RichRich1955]

Oboz makes some nice winter boots. Keen brand quality isn't good anymore.

[@Whiskey.Tango.Actual]

Rucking without a hip belt is unhinged lol

[@MFJoneser]

Goofball amateur rookie stuff for sure lol. Embarrassed for these well intentioned gents. Can’t blame em for trying to help but facepalm

[@Nyet103]

Goggins is laughing somewhere..30lbs..pffft...lol

[@silverflash1675]

Is this the 21l GR1 or the 26l?

[@getout116]

Did this ever get answered? Wondering the same here.

[@lukasbaran4225]

Both 26L !

[@jaycee7417]

Are those backpacks 21L or 26L?

[@Huckberryco]

26L on Ben and 21 on Michael

[@MFJoneser]

Rucking without waist straps is very unwise

[@henrycook6376]

Soldiers hate carrying a pack yet fitness enthusiasts gladly carry one. Crazy.

[@estherhorst2492]

I have a Kelty pack with an internal frame. I fasten the hip belt and carry most of the weight on my hips.Otherwise my arms tend to go numb. Is that OK?

[@JW-ke9ed]

Since everyone is a different weight, shouldn't the ruck weight be a percentage, eg, 10% for a beginner and work your way up to 25%?

[@Huckberryco]

Great question! Our friends over at GoRuck have this to say about Rucking: "Our recommendation for most people is to start with 20 lbs of weight for rucking, progress in increments of ~10 lbs, and ultimately max out at ⅓ of your bodyweight. It’s more important to keep proper form while rucking than to have more weight."

[@JW-ke9ed]

@@Huckberryco Thank you so much for the info! I put four 5lb plates inside my backpack and going out for a walk tomorrow. Cheers

[@kathya1956]

no hip support?

[@Huckberryco]

not for this one no

[@DerrickLytlephoto]

So rucking is just hiking? But you say rucking so you can sound like you're in the military? K.

[@nikitaw1982]

5.10 if we arent athletic when did we start setting animal traps. If we arent running throwing spear how else? Heard wolves only eat a fraction of what they kill, maybe we trailed wolves.

[@aprilcook9827]

so how much weight should a woman ruck?

[@JaimeBlanco666]

20#

[@aprilcook9827]

I do about 15 pounds

[@Jimbo-yc7eu]

I do 40 lbs. I’m 52 years old.

[@drunkviggo7263]

😂

[@aka_pierre]

wtf why would you use weights instead of food, water and gear?

[@bepperson885]

Manly music

[@derek19201]

Lot of bro science going on here

[@jt.8144]

RUN ULTRAMARATHONS. Then go for a ruck on your weekend off.

[@jonathanbaker2789]

Worst advice ever

[@clairevero]

Some dangerous advise in that video

[@michaelnavarro8786]

What would you change? Im interested in this activity for the potential health benefits. Thanks!

[@slicknickbangers]

Overpriced trash

[@KenFernbach]

Really good to see this- I do my food shopping this way! Got rid of the car and feel so liberated- exercising is not so common in my normal - but a quick trip downtown shows that the people who experience are here and are the real deal! Like being in this category of fine folks 😂❤🏃‍♀️🚴🏼‍♂️🌿🧘🏼🙏

[@KenFernbach]

Normal?- Neighborhood. Experience- Exercise sorry I didn’t read that first