Ruck with Sam – Home

Rucking

  • What Am I Really Training For?

    What Am I Really Training For?

    We spend so much time training for the thing in front of us: the race, the goal, the milestone. But somewhere along the way, I realized I’m not training just to run 200 miles. I am training to become someone—to become more myself.

  • The Loneliest Place I’ve Ever Been

    The Loneliest Place I’ve Ever Been

    The finish line is supposed to be the moment everything comes together. It’s the celebration after the suffering. But sometimes, after hours of pushing through doubt, pain, and uncertainty, it can feel surprisingly empty. This is the story of learning that endurance isn’t about crossing alone, but having someone help you land.

  • The Heart’s Compass: Navigating from Comfort to Purpose

    The Heart’s Compass: Navigating from Comfort to Purpose

    Recounting my journey from a monotonous job to discovering a passion for coaching after a transformative mountain race. I felt unfulfilled despite career success and ultimately decided to pursue coaching, finding joy in helping others grow. The piece emphasizes the importance of following one’s heart for personal fulfillment and growth.

  • A Trip into Sobriety

    A Trip into Sobriety

    After quietly stepping back from alcohol in 2024, I discovered clarity through small shifts—hikes, microdosing, and presence. It wasn’t about strict rules, but about noticing patterns and choosing differently. This isn’t a story of perfection, but of awareness, self-honesty, and learning to stay present—slowly by slowly.

  • Rucking Essentials: What’s Always in My Pack?

    Rucking Essentials: What’s Always in My Pack?

    The post shares essential training gear for rucking, including personal safety items like a first aid kit, a Garmin InReach for communication, and a headlamp. It emphasizes the importance of packing purposeful items for various scenarios.

  • The “I Can’t” Wall

    The “I Can’t” Wall

    Reflections from a short run through Mandeville Canyon on overcoming a mental barrier termed the “I Can’t” wall. Transitioning from rucking to trail running revealed a deeper mental struggle tied to self-belief. Explore a changing mindset and experience around newfound determination and accomplishment in overcoming challenges.

  • Green Beret Fitness Operation CENTURY Part I: Preparation, Training, Gear, and Nutrition

    Green Beret Fitness Operation CENTURY Part I: Preparation, Training, Gear, and Nutrition

    Operation CENTURY is a challenging endurance race in the mountains comprising a 21-mile loop over 48 hours, with a total of 100 miles and 23,000 feet elevation gain. Part I reveals insights into training, travel logistics, nutrition planning, and gear preparation, emphasizing the importance of nutrition for success. Part II will follow.

  • A Tale of Grit and Beauty: Green Beret Fitness Operation YOSEMITE MAX Race Report

    A Tale of Grit and Beauty: Green Beret Fitness Operation YOSEMITE MAX Race Report

    Operation YOSEMITE MAX is a challenging 22.5-mile route in June Lake, reaching 10,000 ft elevation. The preparation involved extensive training, including multi-day runs. The course features stunning scenery, with a mix of ascents and descents. Despite facing a thunderstorm, the experience emphasized enjoying the journey over purely focusing on outcomes.

  • Conquering Charleston: Green Beret Fitness Operation VEGAS Race Report

    Conquering Charleston: Green Beret Fitness Operation VEGAS Race Report

    Operation VEGAS consisted of an 18-mile loop course with significant elevation gains, altered due to trail closures. The training included various physical activities and managing hydration for hot conditions. Despite early struggles during the race, persistence led to a finish time of 6 hours and 36 minutes, highlighting personal growth through mental challenges.