It’s no secret that walking is good for us, but according to sports scientist Dr. Elroy Aguiar, it’s the best exercise you can do. “It’s accessible, and for most people there are low barriers to entry in terms of cost, equipment or skill requirements,” the assistant professor of exercise science at The University of Alabama specializes in step-based physical activity explains. “That’s why we say it’s the best.”
But it turns out, there are some easy ways to make those steps count even more in terms of the health benefits they deliver. This past Winter – I started Rucking! A form of exercise that involves walking or hiking with a weighted backpack, known as a rucksack.
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Originating from military training, rucking is a simple yet effective way to combine strength and endurance workouts. Here are some key points about rucking:
- Low Impact Exercise: Rucking is a low-impact activity that reduces the risk of injury compared to high-impact exercises like running
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- Full-Body Workout: Carrying weight engages various muscle groups, including the core, shoulders, back, and legs
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- Cardiovascular Benefits: It boosts cardiovascular health by increasing the physical demands of walking or hiking
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- Mental Resilience: Rucking fosters mental toughness and resilience, making it a rewarding challenge
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- Versatility: It can be done in urban or natural settings, making it adaptable to different fitness levels
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My backpack – bought it at Goodwill for $8 and for weight I use hardcover books and canned goods! See you out there.
