Best Rucking Events: A Guide and List

Rucking, the act of walking or hiking with a loaded backpack, has gained immense popularity in recent years. It offers a unique and challenging way to test one’s physical and mental endurance while fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants.

Rucking events have sprouted up all around the world, providing enthusiasts with opportunities to push their limits and achieve personal goals. In this article, we will explore some of the best rucking events, showcasing their unique characteristics and what makes them stand out from the rest.

Top Rucking Events

Rucking events offer a unique and rewarding experience for fitness enthusiasts, military personnel, and those looking for a new physical challenge. Below are some of the best rucking events around. Choose one that aligns with your goals, train hard, and embark on a rucking adventure.

1. Star Course by GORUCK
   
   The Star Course is an endurance event offered by GORUCK that pushes participants to the limits of their physical and mental stamina. The goal is to complete a specific distance, such as 12, 26.2, 50 miles or 75 miles, within a set time frame while carrying a weighted backpack. This individual challenge requires participants to navigate checkpoints (smart phones are allowed) and urban terrain, relying on their navigation skills and resilience to reach the finish line.
2. GORUCK Challenge
   
   The GORUCK Challenge is arguably the most well-known rucking event, and for good reason. Founded by a former Green Beret, this event is designed to simulate the training that Special Forces soldiers go through. Lasting 6, 12, or 24 hours, participants must work as a team to navigate a series of physical and mental challenges while carrying heavy backpacks. GORUCK events are known for their tough, no-nonsense approach and emphasis on teamwork.
3. Bataan Memorial Death March
   
   The Bataan Memorial Death March is a unique event that pays homage to the historical event that took place during World War II. Participants in the Bataan Death March Memorial Ruck carry weighted backpacks as they trek a challenging course, symbolizing the arduous journey undertaken by the prisoners of war. The event typically covers a distance of 26.2 miles, a full marathon, and takes place in various locations, including the Bataan Memorial Death March held annually in New Mexico, USA.
4. Virtual Rucking Challenges
   
   In response to the growing interest in rucking, virtual rucking challenges have become increasingly popular. These challenges allow participants to complete a specified distance or set of milestones within a given time frame, all while rucking in their own communities. Virtual events offer flexibility, allowing participants to choose their routes and schedules while still being part of a larger rucking community through online platforms and social media.
5. Green Beret Fitness
   
   Green Beret Fitness events involve rucking and land navigation in both urban and natural environments. Participants must carry predetermined weight in their ruck and meet specific time constraints in order to earn the coveted GBF finisher’s dog tag.
6. Rucking Marathons and Half-Marathons
   
   For those who enjoy long-distance running and rucking, rucking marathons and half-marathons offer a unique twist to traditional road races. It is becoming more common for local races to incorporate a rucking division. Participants cover the race distance while maintaining a specified weight in their backpacks, adding an extra layer of physical and mental toughness to the event. Check with your local races to inquire about rucking divisions.
7. Spartan Hurricane Heat
   
   While primarily known for their obstacle course races, Spartan also offers the Hurricane Heat, a rucking event that pushes participants to their limits. Lasting anywhere from 12-24 hours, this event focuses on teamwork, mental fortitude, and physical endurance. Participants are required to carry weighted backpacks as they navigate through challenging terrain and overcome various team-based challenges.

When selecting a rucking event, consider your fitness level, goals, and personal preferences. Some events focus on teamwork and camaraderie, while others emphasize individual endurance and mental resilience. Choose an event that aligns with your interests and aspirations, and don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone to embrace new challenges.

Rucking events provide an exciting and physically demanding way to test your limits, build resilience, and foster a sense of community. Whether you’re a seasoned rucker or new to the world of loaded backpack challenges, there’s an event out there to suit your needs.