Discover the Benefits of Rucking for Fitness, Mental Health, and Connection

Hello, dear friends!

Today, I want to share how I discovered the incredible benefits of rucking for fitness and mental health. What started as a simple walk with weight has transformed into a practice that strengthens my body, clears my mind, and deepens my faith.

The Benefits of Rucking for Fitness and Mental Health

If you’ve never heard of it before, rucking is essentially walking with weight on your back—think hiking with a weighted backpack. It’s a full-body workout that improves strength, endurance, and posture while also providing mental clarity. For me, it’s been so much more than just exercise. It’s become a way to pray, process, and push through the hard stuff in life.

My Unexpected Introduction to Rucking

It all started during an unexpected, difficult new season, after my son enlisted in the Army. We were very close (he made me a car mom), and this new adventure, while exciting for him, came as a shock to my system! While he was at Army Basic Training, I lived for Sunday afternoons when he would call home. Those conversations were filled with love, pride, and encouragement—but also heartbreak. Hearing his voice crack under the weight of his struggle—through the physical and mental challenges he was facing—left me feeling helpless.

As a mom, it’s instinctual to want to take your child’s burden and carry it for them. Of course, I couldn’t do that for him physically, but I found my own way to show up for him. After each Sunday call, I’d grab a backpack with some dumbbells in it and head out on the country roads with Bentley, our white lab. With every step, I prayed. Prayers of protection, strength, and hope for my son poured out of me—along with plenty of sweat and tears.

The Weight Soldiers Carry

Rucking is a central part of Basic Training for soldiers, and it’s no small feat. They carry heavy packs loaded with gear, often weighing 35–70 pounds, over miles of challenging terrain. These ruck marches test their physical endurance, mental resilience, and teamwork. It’s not just about moving from point A to point B; it’s about pushing past limits and proving to themselves—and each other—that they can handle the weight. My son shared stories of these grueling marches, describing the aching legs, blistered feet, and moments of doubt. But he also spoke of the pride that came with finishing strong.

Knowing what my son was enduring on those marches inspired me to take up rucking myself—not just as a form of solidarity but as a way to honor the strength and perseverance he was building. And I treasured how it kept us connected over the long, solitary weeks of army basic training.

Solo Ruck to “Sunday Ruck”

While soldiers ruck to build endurance and strength, I found my own benefits of rucking for fitness and mental health through solo walks filled with prayer and reflection. It’s my time to process, pray, and simply be. But as much as I cherish these solitary moments, I know there’s power in shared experiences.

That’s why I started the “Sunday Ruck” Facebook group. I realized I wasn’t the only one who needed a space like this. Whether it’s for fitness, faith, or simply fellowship, many people are craving an outlet to process their struggles and strengthen their spirit. I hope to eventually organize events where we can ruck together in person, sharing not just the miles but the encouragement and connection that come with walking shoulder to shoulder. Until then, the group is a way to connect, share stories, and cheer each other on from wherever we are.

Lessons From the Weight

Rucking has taught me so much. It’s reminded me that the weight we carry doesn’t define us—it’s how we move through it that matters. It’s also shown me the value of putting one foot in front of the other and embracing the journey.

And maybe most importantly, it’s reminded me of the strength that comes from surrender. On those hardest days, when the weight feels unbearable, leaning into faith has made all the difference.

Join Us

Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness or find a way to process life’s challenges, the benefits of rucking for fitness and mental health are worth exploring. Join the ‘Sunday Ruck’ group and experience it for yourself!

Rucking started as my way to carry my son in prayer, but it’s turned into so much more. One step at a time, I’ve found strength, peace, and purpose in the practice. And maybe someday, we’ll even share a few miles together.

If you’re curious about how to get started with rucking, drop a comment below or join the “Sunday Ruck” group on Facebook! We’re here to cheer you on every step of the way. 😊