How Much Weight Should You Ruck With? The Beginner’s Guide to Weight, Distance, Pace, & Scaling
Update: 2025-08-18
Description
If you’re just getting into rucking, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is: “How much weight should I ruck with?” In this episode of The Rucker’s Edge, we answer that question and discuss when and how to scale-up.
You’ll learn:
- How to determine your starting weight
- Why 10% of your body weight (or 20 lbs) is a solid starting point for most — and when to adjust lower or higher
- The safest way to scale up without risking injury
- My personal “scaled too fast” story and what it cost me in recovery time
- The “boring is beautiful” philosophy — and how consistency beats flash every time
- We’ll also go through my Before You Scale Up Checklist so you know exactly when your body is ready for more weight, more distance, or more speed — and when it’s smarter to hold steady.
Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- GORUCK Training Plans
- Pathfinder Ruck Training
- BMI Calculator
- Found this tool interesting: RuckingStart
Notes:
- Music: “Play This Game” by Black Rhomb
- I’m not a doctor, and this podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult with your physician before starting any new exercise or physical activity.
Comments
In Channel