Did a 50km first ruck - Feet are destroyed but I feel great
I didn't know about "rucking" as a concept until googling some of my issues last night. I just wanted to see how far I could get with a pack on in 12h. Ended up doing it in 10.5h (including rests).
Essentially did 50km on hilly trail terrain with 10kg on my back. Started with 14kg for the first 7km but it was too brutal to keep.
Mistakes and learnings:
- I didn't have my bags fasteners pulled down to raise the weight up higher.
- The weight in my pack wasn't placed high.
- No belt to adjust and reduce weight on shoulders (at least time to time)
- Been soaking my feet all day because of blisters — I used decent socks and boots (the same ones I wear to work for 8-10h a day without any issue), but I might need to invest in something specific.
- I was a crumpled mess by the end, my posture was off and I now realise I obviously went too far.
But the positive is that my body has taken the punishment without any major issue.
Made a weight plate for my bag today.
Going forward I'll probably up the weight slightly (my plate is 11.5kg alone) and significantly reduce the distance as I build up endurance. Maybe 2-3 times per week for 2-3 hours each.
I've read the 3 posts in the starter thread, but if anyone has anything they want to share, feel free. My biggest challenge atm is finding the right shoes and socks to prevent blistering.
Posted Jan 8, 2024, 7:46 AM UTC