Just to see their videos pass on the networks, one might think that rucking followers are soldiers in full training. However, this discipline is gaining ground among city dwellers as in fitness lovers. What if it was not a simple fashion effect? Opposite, running, well installed, keeps its followers. But then, if your goal is to lose weight, what activity to choose: rucking or running? Sports coach Jarod Nobbe decided, in an interview with Eat this, not that!
Rucking: a softer but durable weight loss
Rucking, for those who barely discover this term, is to walk with a weighted backpack. No need to run: the load on the back already does the work in terms of physical effort. The concept may seem surprising, but that is precisely what makes all the interest of rucking. This low impact activity is suitable for very varied profiles, especially those which cannot run because of joint pain or past injuries.
Jarod Nobbe underlines: “Rucking makes several muscle groups work simultaneously, including legs, back and trunk“. Result: overall muscular toning, without having to run. The advantage is also that we can start gently.”It is possible to start with a light weight and gradually increase it, as you gain in strength and endurance“, Specifies the coach.
Another point rarely highlighted: the mental and meditative aspect. The regular rhythm of walking, combined with physical exertion, can help reduce anxiety. “”Rucking reduces stress and improves mental health“, says Jarod Nobbe. In short, an activity as beneficial for morale as for the line.
Running: more effective for quickly burning calories
Running remains the classic cardio activity: it is a question of running at a moderate pace with sustained. No surprise: running remains at the top of the burnt-burning sports. An intense session makes it possible to burn a large number of calories in a short time. Perfect for those who want quickly visible results, provided they have sufficient physical condition.
“”Run improves heart and pulmonary function while increasing endurance“, Recall the coach. Add to that a discharge of endorphins, these famous hormones of well-being, and you get an energizing cocktail as good for the body as for the head. Another significant argument: logistical simplicity. A pair of sneakers, shorts, and it’s gone. No need for additional equipment, unlike rucking that requires a suitable bag.
But beware: running strongly requests the joints, especially in beginners or overweight people. Bad technique or excess zeal can quickly lead to injuries, and therefore ruin the efforts undertaken.
Which activity to choose to lose weight effectively?
So, do you have to run or walk weighted to lose your extra pounds? From a purely caloric point of view, running allows faster weight loss. But the rucking, thanks to the weight carried, significantly increases the energy expenditure, even by walking slowly.
“”Rucking does not burn as many calories as running, but there remains a solid option for constant weight loss“, says Jarod Nobbe. And that is his advantage: less brutal, he limits the risk of injury and encourages a long -term practice.
A decisive factor according to the expert: “The key is to choose the activity you love and that you can keep in a coherent way“. Clearly: No need to impose a jogging if each session is a chore. It is better to walk for a long time with weight, regularly, than running three times and abandon.