Why rucking is taking over social media
Rucking related content has had over 19 million views on TikTok alone, and that’s not considering searches for rucking on other social media platforms. Let’s look at why rucking has taken over social media, and get behind the hype to explain why rucking is so much more than a trend.
The rise of rucking on social media
The number of searches and views for rucking content on social media is crazy. It seems like users can’t get enough of informative and motivating content about exploring the great outdoor with a weighted pack. TikTok, a platform known for trending challenges and fitness idees, has over 19 million views for the rucking hashtag.
We can only guess why rucking has taken social media by storm. Lockdown helped us all fall in love with walking, and rucking is a step up from walking outdoors. It’s accessible, suitable for almost everyone, and pretty cheap. All you need is a weighted pack and off you go. You can ruck anywhere, any time. There are no rules.
But what exactly is rucking?
Rucking is a simple form of exercise that involves walking or hiking with a weighted backpack or rucking plate carrier on your back. The term comes from the military, where soldiers carry heavy rucksacks during training exercises and missions. Rucking has made its way out of the military and into the civilian fitness world, and it looks like it’s here to stay.
5 main benefits of rucking
- Cardio health - rucking is great cardio that can help improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and improve your general fitness.
- Full body workout – rucking is a legit strength workout, too, and it engages a wide range of muscles including legs, back, shoulders, and core.
- Low-impact – unlike running, rucking is a low-impact exercise, making it suitable for all fitness levels, and making it more sustainable for the long term.
- Mental wellbeing - the combination of nature, fresh air, and physical activity is great for stress, mood, and mental health.
- Functional fitness – rucking gets you fit and strong for real-life activities, making it more practical than gym workouts.
How to get started with rucking
The only rule of rucking is that you must be carrying a weighted backpack (or a rucking plate carrier). Other than that, you can go wherever you want, for as long as you want. You can train for rucking challenges, or just enjoy social rucks on sunny days. It’s the ultimate you-do-you form of exercise.
Get the gear
The only essential gear you need for rucking is a rucking backpack (ruckpack) or rucking plate carrier. Both have different benefits, so check out both options to decide which is best for you.
Start light
Start with a weight that feels comfortable to carry for an hour or so, most people use around 10-15% bodyweight as a starting weight. The beauty of a plate-loaded ruckpack or plate carrier is that you can add and swap weights without making the pack bulky.
Proper form
Think about good posture as you walk, keeping your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Take shorter steps than usual to get used to feeling of carrying weight on your back.
Choose your route
Rucking can be done anywhere – from urban streets to off-road routes. Pick a route that suits your preferences and fitness levels, and think about doing out-and-back or loops as you build your fitness.
Ruck with friends
Rucking can be a great activity to do by yourself, but it’s sensible (and fun) to ruck with friends most of the time.
Is rucking just a social media fad?
We’re really pleased to see rucking getting so many searches on TikTok and other platforms, but rucking is definitely not a fad. It’s a very old form of exercise that has roots in the military. It’s been around for ages, and it’s here to stay.
Get involved by choosing a great quality rucking backpack or rucking plate carrier, then simply get out there and start rucking. You won’t look back.
Check out the Force Fitness store for reasonably priced, top quality rucking gear backed up by great customer service.
