Rucking is a term commonly used in the military for training or hiking while carrying a heavy load. The high weight consists of weapons and heavy armor. However, rucking is not restricted to the military. Hikers from all over the world do rucking because it strengthens their bodies, builds endurance, and tests their patience.

You may think rucking is a walk in the park, but it's challenging and strenuous. As a hiker with a backpack, there are several rucking rules you should know before beginning your rucking trip.

Check out the following essential rucking rules for backpackers:

1. Sort Out Your Rucking Gear

You need high-quality gear that fits, no matter what you're rucking for. Many things are essential for a successful rucking experience. These include safety gear, comfy clothes, and items to protect you from harsh weather conditions. In particular, it is crucial to pay attention to your backpack and your shoes.

Get a backpack that fits you. Ensure that you tighten the backpack straps enough to set them firmly against your shoulders, leaving minimal room under your armpits. It is unnecessary to secure your waist with straps if you're going for a walk on a mostly flat surface. However, if you are going to run a steep obstacle, you might want to fasten these straps.

Shoes are equally important when rucking in a hiking trip. Press your heel into the back of the shoe to make adequate room for the front toe. Make sure your shoes are not too tight, and check them with the socks you're going to wear. Modern boots don't need as much time to break in as the old leather boots did.

2. Terrain Selection

Choose a hiking trail that is suitable for rucking. You can go for a ruck march around your neighborhood with a lot of weight in your backpack to get some exercise. It would be wise to keep your distance from crowded streets and roads and change sides a few times if necessary.

Keep your rucking limited if you're going to a sandy and hilly terrain. Instead, do more time on a surface that's close to your target environment, like a grassy field or a field covered with sand or clay. It is vital to test your body to move against a natural landscape. You can find guided trails in most places. You can also do off-road rucking.

3. Food And Water Intake

Since it's more beneficial to finish your rucking hike without food, try to ruck without food early in the day. Rucking with an empty stomach enhances metabolic flexibility. Have a proper meal after completing your rucking hike.

Staying hydrated throughout your rucking trip is crucial. Water is vital, especially when walking for long periods and in hot and humid places. Not drinking enough water can lead to unwarned dehydration.

You should drink a lot of water the night before your rucking journey, and you should do rucking during the cooler parts of the day. Keep water with you while rucking. Even if you're not thirsty, drink water as you walk.

Are you planning to go for a rucking hike soon? Make sure that you know the rucking rules. Light Hiking Gear provides one of the best lightweight backpacks to suit your rucking needs. We also provide good quality bear canister holders, daypacks for travel, and ultralight hiking gear.

Contact us to buy excellent waterproof daypacks.