As a civilian, where can I get the gear needed and how do I practice ruck marches at home?

Ryan Kollar — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 13:15:12 -0500

sort of based on my previous question, but as a civilian, where can I get the gear needed and how do I practice ruck marches at home? I don't leave for basic till June.

Response by LTC Kevin B. made Feb 22 at 2019 1:37 PM

LTC Kevin B. — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 13:37:01 -0500

Go to an Army/Navy surplus store and you'll probably find anything you need. As far as practicing, find a long road or trail through the countryside, then start walking. Start with a shorter distance, like a mile, and then stretch it out with each additional march. Stay hydrated, and make sure you have a cellphone on you. I'd recommend finding a partner too.

Response by SFC Scott Higgins made Feb 22 at 2019 2:25 PM

SFC Scott Higgins — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 14:25:40 -0500

Mr. Kollar, good of you to start thinking ahead. Most Army/Navy surplus stores would have what you need LCE, Ruck, Canteens etc. You can also look for this stuff online as well. LTC Kevin B is right - stay hydrated, start slow and find a battle buddy, having someone with you helps with motivation. You can can find a city park or walking trail depending upon where you live as well.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Feb 22 at 2019 4:02 PM

CSM Richard StCyr — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 16:02:57 -0500

You can purchase a medium rucksack and frame at an Army surplus store. Start light and build up to about 35 lbs or so. Same with distance, start out at a couple miles and build up to 12 max. Your final target speed / pace should be 4 miles per hour. You should be able to get into a ruck and frame for about $60.00.

A good set of well broken in boots are important so you don't screw yourself up prior to training.

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 22 at 2019 4:17 PM

SPC David S. — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 16:17:57 -0500

Forget the rucks as they build in basic - focus on sit-ups, push-ups and the run as you will being doing these daily.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2019 5:27 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 17:27:23 -0500

If you want to use what you'll be using at basic, you'll be spending some decent cash on a MOLLE ruck and frame...plus that ruck just sucks. Just get used to moving under a load. Any backpack should be fine. You are just starting so I'd recommend maybe no more than 35# (pound not hashtag) in your bag and don't forget a water source - camelback, canteen etc...
You want a decent set of boots/shoes, you will have issued boots at basic so remember that. You are just getting your shoulders, glutes, feet, legs, and back used to the movement. It is literally walking, with a backpack. Technique will come with time, just train the muscles.
Once you are in and allowed to buy your own equipment here's #1 and #2:
#1 - it's not boots, but SOCKS. Issued socks are a waste, get Fox River, Darn Tough, or Smartwool. They will make a ruck much easier on your feet and prevent blisters, provided...
#2 you have good boots. Issued boots are built to last and be as cheap as possible for the Army. Yes they do last a while, but they take some time to get broken in and they can be kinda heavy. There are lots of "aftermarket" boots out there - Rocky, Oakley, Nike, Danner, etc.. they are well worth the money. Coupled with good socks, an ALICE, Tasmanian Tiger, or Mystery Ranch ruck and the desire to keep going and you will be unstoppable and ready for Selection...hint hint.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 22 at 2019 10:49 PM

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 22 Feb 2019 22:49:05 -0500

Pounding the pavement ain't as hard you might think... sure its physically intensive, but it's more of a mindset than anything else. In BCT your basic load probably won't be more than 35 lbs and the time standard is 12 mi in 3 hrs (= 15 min per mile pace) However, I think BCT is only 10 miles. Additionally, if they make you wear the body armor (with plates) that will restrict airflow and reflect your body heat back to you, meaning its going to get real hot wearing all that crap. In my days we didn't wear body armor, just a partial vest called a LBV, or the web gear that had shoulder straps and a buttpack. It was much cooler and lighter to wear. So if you're going all out then you have to mimic the actual conditions with a vest and NSRDEC helmet (or Kevlar equivalent).

However, I don't think purchasing gear is necessary. Instead do a lot of hiking and mentally prepare yourself to walk in any terrain and in any weather. In my experience the ruck frame gradually digs into your back (which is why some people wear the rucks high on their shoulders), while your neck starts to strain and your head feels like its going to fall off, your weapon is also a pain in the ass... especially if you carry the SAW (with an ammo drums its about 25lbs to carry in your hands -even with the cushy sling). Your legs and butt crack will get so sweaty the chaffing/rubbing will start to kick in causing other minor annoyances; including rashes that go on for days. Then there is your feet and how your socks become glued to them, and you have to peel them off your skin. Some people wear dress socks underneath the thicker wool socks, and others use powder to keep their feet dry. Throughout this ordeal your mind also starts to waiver and play tricks on you while you're trying to manage everything else. Then there is the never ending boredom and keeping your feet up (from dragging) or paying attention to the person ahead of you (and not falling behind). This mind game is one of the reasons a lot of forced marches have huge gaps because people start to waiver and they have to run to catch up, fatiguing them only more. Some fall down and hit their face on the pavement. Which is why you should never RUN in a road march. Your legs will start to turn to mush the further you walk too, but "mind over matter" and keep your footing. You also have to pay attention to your body (and your buddy) for heat stroke and exhaustion. Remember to hydrate before the ruck and not just during. I also used to sneak some snacks in my pockets for a little energy.