Why I Started Rucking—And Why You Might Want to Try It Too

The OG Strength and Resilience Practice for Women

What is Rucking, and Why Should Women Care?

Rucking is one of the simplest and most powerful forms of movement: carrying weight while walking. It builds strength, endurance, and resilience—all while fitting seamlessly into daily life. Although most sources say it originated from military training, where soldiers carried heavy packs over long distances to build endurance and strength, if you’ve ever carried a baby on your body for hours, you’ve already been rucking! In my opinion- babywearing is the original rucking, a deeply human practice that has shaped (especially women’s) bodies and communities for millions of years.

Michael Easter, author of The Comfort Crisis, (a book I highly recommend) calls rucking “cardio for people who hate running” and one of the most effective ways to build strength and endurance simultaneously. Unlike running, rucking is gentler on your joints. Studies show that weighted walking improves posture, core stability, and bone density—all critical for long-term health.¹ It also burns up to three times more calories than walking, making it an incredibly efficient exercise.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Before beginning any new fitness routine, including rucking, consult with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health and fitness level. The author and publisher assume no responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred as a result of the use of this information.

The Unique Benefits of Rucking for Women

As women it often feels like we’re carrying the weight of our communities and families on our shoulders—figuratively and literally. Rucking is a way to tap into this innate strength and power we already hold. There are a range of health benefits specific to women including:

• Bone Density & Joint Health – Weight-bearing exercise is essential for preventing osteoporosis. Rucking provides the benefits of strength training without needing a gym.

• Core & Posture Support – Carrying weight evenly on the back strengthens the entire posterior chain (muscles down and along your back), counteracting the forward pull of modern life (hunched over phones, computers, or children).

• Functional Strength & Endurance – Unlike isolated gym exercises, rucking builds the kind of core strength that can help us with carrying groceries, our children or to move furniture when we’re feeling the need to reorganize!

• Mental Resilience – The steady, rhythmic movement of rucking is gentle enough to feel doable but challenging enough to build both physical and mental grit (another concept Michael Easter talks about).²

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