#1 Just Ruck It - Pilot

[00:00:00] Lindsay: Welcome to the pilot episode of Just Ruck It. I'm Lindsay and today I'm inviting to take you on the first steps of a journey. One that changed my life and it just might change yours too. In June of 2004, I strapped on a backpack and I headed for the summit of Mt Jo and the Adirondacks. What started as a simple hike turned into a path of mental, spiritual and physical growth.

[00:00:36] Rucking. It's a term you may have heard of, or maybe you're just learning about it today. It originated as a military training exercise, and rucking at its core is traveling a distance with added weight. It's not about racing or sprinting, and it's definitely not just for athletes. It's for anybody who wants to challenge themselves.

[00:00:57] And I don't just mean physically. Rocking is about taking on the weight, both the literal and figurative. And that challenge, that challenge helps us grow stronger in mind, body, and spirit. When I decided to climb up Mt Jo that day, I had no idea it was going to change my life forever. I summited that trail as a kid so many times, and I remembered it being fast and easy, and not difficult at all.

[00:01:25] But When I got up there, I found it so difficult, I wanted to quit. And that feeling of failure reignited something at my core, and I got pissed. I pushed myself to the top to see that iconic heart view shaped lake, and it was there that I decided that mediocrity was no longer allowed. Every step I've taken since that day has been about more than just fitness.

[00:01:54] It's about growing mentally, spiritually, and finding new resilience and becoming someone who can face challenges head on. This podcast is going to help you take a journey of self improvement through the simple yet effective tool of rucking. Why ruck? Why even bother to put on the extra weight on your back and head out into the world when you could just, I don't know, not?

[00:02:18] For me? It was about purpose. Rucking gives me purpose. It is tangible. It is a physical challenge. But it also mirrors life. Sometime that load is just going to feel heavy. And the trail is going to be way too long. Or that climb, it's going to feel impossible. But step by step you move forward. And every step is going to be worth it.

[00:02:44] Makes you stronger. Whether you're here to build strength or train for a bigger goal or just get outside and find some peace of mind. Rucking offers something that I believe everyone can benefit from. You don't have to be an expert or an athlete. You just have to show up and take that first step. What's next?

[00:03:05] Well, If you're ready to take on this journey with me, make sure you subscribe to Just Ruck It! And in the next episode, I'm going to dive into the essentials. What gear do you need to get started? What are the first day expectations and other beginner tips to help you hit the trail with confidence?

[00:03:22] Remember, this is just the beginning. Every ruck starts with one step, and I am so excited to take it with you. Get out there. Life is rucking wonderful.