Do you really need a book to start rucking? No. But will you benefit by learning from fitness professionals and military veterans who have vast expertise in weighted carries for long distances. Yes. That’s why we’ve compiled a best of list for books on rucking.
The following book recommendations will provide you with insights and best practices when carrying a weighted backpack whether it’s a DIY version or one built for rucking. Here’s our top picks for books that will help you achieve your goals.
Best Rucking Book For Strength and Hypertrophy: Rucking Gains
Authors: Josh Bryant and Adam benShea
I’ve known Josh Bryant for many years but that’s not why it’s at the top of our list. Having written best-selling books such as Jailhouse Strong, Josh has vast experience in the roughest and toughest forms of strength and conditioning. This book is perfect for those looking to make rucking a part of their powerlifting, strongman, or hypertrophy training programs. There are workout plans and simple-to-follow advice for developing muscle through rucking activities.
Key Points:
- Integration of rucking with traditional weight training.
- Step-by-step instructions suitable for beginners and advanced athletes.
- Emphasis on correct technique to prevent injuries.
- Comprehensive guidance on achieving tangible strength gains.
Best for Mental Resilience: Shut Up and Ruck
Author: Dr. David C. Walton
As a decorated military veteran, David C. Walton knows more than a thing or two about rucking across difficult terrains for long periods of time. This book was created for those preparing for the Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS) but it is also a really good book for those who want to build mental toughness. Kind of along the same lines of Living With a Navy Seal but specific to weighted carries. In the book you will find a detailed program for enhancing resilence and overall performance. The book also includes a journal so that you can document your rucking journey.
Key Points:
- Access to top performance coaching across various domains.
- Eight-month, day-by-day training guide.
- Focus on developing mental and physical endurance.
- Insights into the demands of SFAS and strategies to meet them.
Best for Tracking Progress: Let’s Ruck! Your Ultimate Rucking Log Book
Author: Sorrel Moore
If you want to see a difference, you must document your progress. Sorrel Moore’s “Let’s Ruck!” is a simple way for ruckers to monitor their progress which will make you feel the dopamine hit every time you write it down. James Clear of “Atomic Habits” would approve of this logbook because it helps reinforce the reward. The logbook provides structured templates allowing you to record and analyze each of your rucking sessions.
Key Points:
- Over 100 pages for detailed session logging.
- Sections for dates, locations, times, and weights carried.
- Helps in setting and achieving rucking goals.
- Encourages consistency and accountability.
Best for Rucking Philosophy and Technique: The Art of Rucking: FM TAOR-01
Author: Ken Schafer
This book is for those who are interested in the philosophy and holistic reasons for rucking. Having a baseline understanding of the deeper aspects of rucking which includes its history, developments over time, and current techniques gives more meaning to this practice which creates an emotional attachment to rucking, helping to further form the habit. The Art of Rucking gives you a comprehensive exploration of the art and science of rucking along with instruction on how to make it a regular part of your week.
Key Points:
- Detailed coverage of rucking history and evolution.
- Advanced tips on form, gear selection, and route planning.
- Emphasis on mental resilience and camaraderie.
- Guidance on incorporating rucking into a disciplined lifestyle.
Key Points:
- Detailed coverage of rucking history and evolution.
- Advanced tips on form, gear selection, and route planning.
- Emphasis on mental resilience and camaraderie.
- Guidance on incorporating rucking into a disciplined lifestyle.
Best for Comprehensive SFAS Preparation: Ruck Up or Shut Up
Author: Dr. David C. Walton
Last but not least, Ruck Up or Shut Up is a more detailed guide for individuals aiming to succeed in the Special Forces Assessment and Selection. In this guide you will find an in-depth look into the SFAS process, offering both prescriptive and descriptive insights. We’ve included this in our list of books on rucking because many of our regular readers are actively getting ready for this assessment and need to know this book exists.
Key Points:
- Week-by-week breakdown of what to expect at SFAS.
- Training methodologies tailored for selection success.
- Insights into the culture, legend, and lore of Special Forces.
- Strategies to build physical and mental readiness.
Conclusion
Each of these recommended books provide unique perspectives into rucking and have valuable information that can benefit your training. But let us remind you that most who purchase a book do not finish it. That’s not you right? Dig into these helpful resources and further your physical and mental resilience by becoming a better rucker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there other books beneficial for ruckers?
Absolutely and we have created a resource just for that. We recommend that you read the following books to help you improve your rucking performance and stay healthy for years to come.
– Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training
– Becoming a Supple Leopard
– The Practice of Natural Movement
Are there any free resources to get me started?
Yes. We have everything you need to get started right here on Rucking Basics. We suggest you begin with our guide “Getting Started: Rucking for Beginners 101” and from there read through the content most relevant to you.
