Tell us about how you started Ruck and Sandbag training or events:
In Spring 2023, I remarked to a co-worker how I needed to “get in better shape.” He suggested rucking as an alternative to running. From there, I did some online research, joined a few Facebook groups, and was quickly initiated into the world of GORUCK.
Having been mostly sedentary for many years, I committed to the Tribe N’ Training WODs 5x week. Shortly thereafter I started hosting the WODs in my driveway as a ruck club leader. I haven’t skipped a workout (by choice) since.
Since being committed to my health and fitness, I’ve lost 85lbs and reversed fatty liver and pre-diabetes.
Most Memorable Event or Fitness achievement?:
With less than a year of rucking experience, I attempted Operation Ocala, a 25# (dry weight), 65+ mile overnight ruck on the Florida Trail through the Ocala National Forest. My longest ruck up till then had been 20 miles, so it was no guarantee that I would finish within the 24 hr time cap. I kept putting one foot in front of the other and did, indeed, complete the mission. I earned some Green Beret Fitness dog tags and a cool OpOcala patch. As much as I love the team element of GORUCK events, I enjoyed the solitude of rucking mile after mile in the dark with just my thoughts to keep me company.
What are you training for?:
I’m training for life and whatever it may throw my way. I want to be a good example to my wife, kids, friends, and coworkers. I also want to be “hard to kill.”
Tell us about why you train with The Bakery?:
After completing a custom Double Tough event, I knew I wanted to prepare for something even more challenging. HTBs caught my eye. When I asked more experienced GRTs for how to prepare for that, many pointed me to “The Bakery.” If The Bakery helped a GORUCK Selection Finisher, it could surely aid me in prepping for an HTB.
What drives you in your fitness journey?:
My desire for vitality and longevity. I spent too many years being comfortable (and incapable). I want to do some hard things before this fleeting life is over. Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is a bucket list goal, and the only way that’s happening is if I’m fit and healthy.
If you could set one fitness-related world record, what would it be?
It would have to be something really silly, since I am chasing GENERAL physical preparedness as opposed to specialization. How about most improved flexibility/mobility from any male between the ages of 44-46?
If you could train with any athlete (past or present), who would it be and why?:
Jason Khalipa. He seems like a down-to-earth dude who cares about his fellow man.
What’s the best piece of fitness advice you’ve ever received?:
Jocko Willink’s “Disciple Equals Freedom” axiom. When I was relying on “motivation” before doing a workout, I would frequently skip them. When I committed to working out on certain days, I just showed up, did the work, and the results materialized over time.
