Challenge Parameters

Location Requirements

• This Challenge must be completed on legitimate mountain terrain.

• A mountain is defined as a large natural elevation that rises abruptly from its surroundings and typically appears on topographical maps. If your trail doesn’t register as part of a known mountain range or ridgeline system, it likely doesn’t qualify.

• Lower elevation mountains do qualify, but simple hills or rolling terrain do not.

Trail Requirements

• Ruck must be completed on unpaved, marked trails only.

• Acceptable trail surfaces include gravel, worn dirt, or rocky footpaths.

• Blazed trails only. Do not attempt this Challenge on unmarked or off-trail routes.

Challenge Completion Requirements

• The Mountain Ruck must be completed in one continuous effort.

• Breaks for water, food, foot care, or gear adjustments are encouraged, but should be kept to 15 minutes or less to maintain the integrity of the training stress.

• A weighted ruck must be worn for the full duration. (See weight guidelines below.)

Challenge Distance Requirements

• Life: This Challenge is not currently part of Life programming.

• Forward: 8 miles

• Endure: 10 miles

• Advanced: 10 miles with prescribed weight (see below)

• Advanced: Ocala: Not a required Challenge

• Compete: Not a required Challenge

• Stirling: 12 miles with prescribed weight (see below)

Challenge Weight Requirements

• Forward & Endure: No stated minimum. An appropriately challenging weight for your current fitness level must be carried throughout the ruck.

• Advanced:

  • 45 lb (20 kg) dry ruck weight if body weight is 150 lb (68 kg) or more

  • 30 lb (13.6 kg) dry ruck weight if body weight is less than 150 lb (68 kg)

• Stirling: 50 lb (22.6 kg) dry ruck weight for all rosters

Challenge Time Requirements

• There are no time requirements for this Challenge.

Pacing Strategies

Mountain terrain forces you to think differently about pace. What works on a flat trail doesn’t translate when elevation, footing, and terrain shifts are constant. Here's how to approach it:

1. Start Slower Than You Think

Let the terrain set the tone early on. The first mile will tell you everything you need to know about the rest. Don’t blow up your legs chasing a pace that worked on pavement. On a true mountain ruck, slower is smarter.

2. Use Landmarks, Not Just Time

Tracking your pace by the clock on a mountain is misleading. Instead, pace by terrain:

• Climb to climb

• Switchback to switchback

• Ridge to rest point

This strategy allows for smarter energy management and more intentional footwork.

3. Maintain a Sustainable Heart Rate

Your breathing should be steady. If you can’t talk in full sentences while climbing, you’re going too hard. Stay just under that threshold.

4. Adjust for Uphill / Downhill Flow

• Uphill: Shorten your stride, lean slightly forward from the ankles, and engage your glutes and core. Use your arms for rhythm and drive.

• Downhill: Control your descent. Don’t sprint. Keep your steps light, knees slightly bent, and resist the temptation to “brake” with your heels - it destroys your quads and feet. Trekking poles can be helpful here.

5. Respect the Weather and Terrain

Pacing is directly tied to surface conditions. Wet rocks, loose gravel, roots, and overgrowth demand precision and patience. Don’t expect even effort across the board.

6. Strategic Breaks

Plan short pauses at natural stopping points like clearings or ridgelines, just enough to eat, hydrate, and assess. Keep moving before your legs get stiff.

7. Finish with Intent

Leave something in the tank for the final miles. Steep descents late in the ruck can ruin your knees and feet if you're fried. Stay focused through the finish.

Recommended Gear

You already know to bring your ruck, weighted appropriately for your level, and enough water. Everything beyond that is about efficiency, safety, and being prepared when things go sideways. Here’s what we recommend:

Footwear

• Trail shoes or boots with aggressive tread. You need grip more than you need speed. If your local mountains are rocky, prioritize stability over flex.

• Gaiters (optional but helpful) to keep grit, pebbles, and debris out, especially on dry trails.

Socks

• Wool or synthetic blends that manage moisture and reduce friction.

• Bring an extra dry pair (stashed in a ziplock) in case of creek crossings, rain, or just for mile 8 morale.

Navigation Tools

• Download your route on an app like AllTrails or Gaia GPS for offline use.

• A compass and printed trail map (yes, old school) are smart backups in case your phone dies or signal drops.

Electrolytes & Fuel

• Carry electrolyte packets or tablets (Tailwind, LMNT, NUUN) and sip regularly.

• Bring real food, not just gels. Things like PB&J halves, salted nuts, or trail mix. A couple of 100-200 calorie snack breaks will make a difference after hour three.

Weather Layers

• A lightweight shell or windbreaker is a must. Even if it’s sunny at the trailhead, elevation gain can change the weather fast.

• Gloves and a buff in your pack if temps may drop.

Safety + Utility

• Headlamp with fresh batteries (even if you think you’ll finish in daylight, just be ready).

• Mini first aid kit with footcare essentials (blister pads, tape, moleskin).

• Multitool or knife, because you never know.

Comms + Contingency

• Fully charged phone, ideally with a power bank and charging cable.

• Let someone know your route, start time, and expected return.

Challenge NOTES:

• Paved trails (concrete, asphalt, similar) should not be used for this Challenge. Gravel trails are acceptable.

• Stairs are not an appropriate substitute for this Challenge. If stairs are the only option in your area, consider the Firefighter Challenge instead.

Challenge Safety & Restrictions