I’ve been rucking for over a year now, and I have to say that it is the most enjoyable thing in my life right now. It has become one of my favorite forms of exercise, and I’m sure you can guess why.
If you are short like me, you know how hard it is to get into some of these positions. The problem with being short is that your arms don’t reach as far as they should.
This makes rucking very difficult for me because I always have to stretch out to grab things or pull myself up.
There are ways around this, though. Here are ten tips for short guys who want to learn more about rucking.
1. Get a Good Harness
This is probably the most important piece of equipment you will need. You could use a cheap harness from any stall, but if you plan on doing any serious rucking, you need something better than that.
A good harness will help you hold yourself up while pulling yourself up and down. They also make it easier when you are standing up because you won’t constantly be falling forward.
When choosing a harness, look for one that fits well and doesn’t pinch too much. Also, make sure that it is comfortable.
2. Train in Advance
If you haven’t done any training before, then you might not be able to do all of the movements correctly. Training is essential for learning new techniques.
You can train by lifting weights, running, jumping rope, etc. Make sure that you practice the moves at least once a week so that you can perfect them before you start rucking.
3. Wear the Right Gear
When you first start rucking, you may think that you just need a pair of shorts and some sneakers. While those items are fine, there are other pieces of gear that you will need.
First, wear a harness. Next, wear a belt. Finally, wear shoes that fit properly. These three items are crucial to getting started. If you don’t have them, then you shouldn’t even bother trying to learn how to ruck.
4. Get A Partner
Getting a partner as a short person is essential to rucking. Not only does it allow you to work out together, but it also provides motivation. Having someone else watching you helps keep you motivated and focused.
This may seem obvious, but if you are going to be doing anything physical, you need someone else to help you do it.
You could try using an empty water bottle or something similar to hold onto, but sometimes it just isn’t enough.
Having a partner means that you aren’t alone, and you can ask questions if you run into trouble.
5. Use Your Feet, Not Your Back
You might think that rucking involves nothing more than pulling yourself up and down, but that isn’t true. Rucking requires a lot of strength and flexibility. To do this effectively, you must use your feet instead of your back.
When you are pulling yourself up, you should push off with your legs. Then, when you are coming down, you should let gravity take over.
Using your back will cause you to lose balance and fall. Instead, use your feet to get up and down.
6. Don’t Be Afraid of Weight.
If you are short, you have to lift more than someone who is tall and skinny. You will get stronger faster if you use a lighter load.
The best way to do this is by using a squat rack or a power cage. By having these devices available, you won’t have to worry about carrying heavy weights around. Just make sure that they are in good condition.
You want to make sure that they are sturdy and safe. Also, make sure that you know how to use them properly.
7. Be Patient With Yourself
Another main reason most short people fail at rucking is that they give up too soon. You shouldn’t expect to become a world-class Rucker overnight.
You learn those lessons, and you can move forward. You should never forget that there is no such thing as failure.
There are only lessons learned. Once you master one exercise, you can move on to the next. If you stick with it, you will eventually succeed.
8. Find Other Short People
There are many other short people out there. Some of them may even be interested in rucking. It would be great if you could form a group where you all train together.
You can then share tips and tricks that you have learned along the way. You can also discuss weightlifting techniques and equipment. These things will help you improve your skills and increase your confidence.
Conclusion
While rucking is not easy, it doesn’t have to be difficult either. It takes practice, patience, and determination. You will develop better muscle, memory, and you will start to see results much quicker.
You will be able to build lean muscle mass while losing fat. In addition, you will enjoy the benefits of being active without spending hours in the gym. If you follow these simple tips, you will find that rucking becomes easier and easier.