What I’m loving for exercise — specifically their ruck plates, sandbags, and “the Rucker.” I can run, but my knees don’t love it. In the past month, I’ve been “rucking” instead—hiking or walking with weight on my back—2–4x per week. I’m astonished by how much I love it. Huffing on trails while listening to a well-narrated audiobook (currently trying Island by Aldous Huxley) has proven hugely therapeutic, and it can turn an unpleasant day around. For the basics of training, check out this link. The gear isn’t cheap, but even if you only have a short circuit, this can change the game. At 165 pounds, I most often do 2.5-mile loops while carrying 30 pounds in the Rucker, and I’ll soon work up to 45–55 pounds. Given some past hip and back issues, I’m progressing slowly. Below is one guideline from their site:

“Our recommendation: start with 20 lbs, progress in increments of ~10 lbs., and ultimately max out at ⅓ of your bodyweight. It’s more important to keep proper form than to have more weight. If you’re looking for a greater challenge at any weight, ruck faster.”