Running With a Backpack

[Jamie T]

I couldn't find any past threads on this subject. I just want to know about wearing a backpack in training runs.

-What sort of bag should I use? (chest/waist straps or none?)
-How much weight? (and best way of applying this weight)
-Is there a rhythm to running with a backpack?
-Any more info much appreciated.

I've recently started putting a 10lb dumbell in my school bag along with the rest of my books etc. Is this a good idea? And a good weight? Or will it just destroy my shoulders?

cheers, -Jamie-

[Langarotti]

I asked the same thing when I joined this forum, though I posted it in the Parachute regimant forum.

viewtopic.php?t=4913

From what I've been told here, it's probably not neccessary and will increase the risk of injury. They will build you up to the required strength in training to be able to run and march with a heavy bergen.

So my answer would be dont bother, just build up to a high level of CV fitness.

[druadan]

I was advised not to run with weight at all; you don't need to do it on PRMC, and you're built up to it gradually once in training. IMHO it doesn't seem worth the risk of causing yourself injury needlessly.

[Jordiman]

You dont even need to run in boots before training.

[Jamie T]

alright, thanks chaps.
I do get asked " why the bloody hell do you have a dumbell in your bag? ". I just reply "marines", with which they follow "aaaah.....uh ok".
I have been advised by an ex-marine, now naval officer to get used to running in trousers and boots though. I know you get issued boots at the end of the PRMC to break in. I think I'll leave the boots till I actually know I've passed the PRMC and get my boots.

cheers, -Jamie-

[ashley]

Is it worth getting a pair of trousers from the surplus army stall?

[GhostBear]

If you still go on carrying the dumbell in your bag then you should probably make sure you wear the bag with both straps across your two shoulders, carrying that kind of weight on one shoulder along with your books and rest of the gear is an accident waiting to happen.

[Jamie T]

Yeah, thanks. I already thought of that. Don't want a hump on one side of my body. I've stopped carrying it now just for the sake of not injuring myself before I've even done the PRMC.

Where in scotland are you from? I was born in Inverness but had to move to england due to my dad's work.

-Jamie-

[Cronkilla]

I started to carry weights while walking/joggin (4-6 miles) to build my knee back up. Thou i did gradually increase the weight and i do have supervision from ex-forces personal.

[Jon]

Wearing a backpack for walking is good but I wouldnt use a backpack for running except on a few occasions. Used to do it all the time but the risk of injury is too great. Try hill running instead to build up strength.

[griffo]

It is good to wear a back pack for leg fitness..... but buggers up your Knees, ankles and hips. If you really want to start DONT RUN ON ROADS. Also make sure you have adequate ankle support otherwise you will go over on them. Make sure your backpack has plenty of padding and doesnt move about when you run. I run home 8 miles from school evry week and its bloody painful with 10 kilos on your back! (Took the skin off my lower back last week with the rubbing!) I would advice also starting light e.g. 4 or 5kg and building up speed, distance and weight. One more kilo per week, one extra half mile. Good luck

[GhostBear]

I live near a town called Alexandria, nearest city being Glasgow about 30 odd miles away.

My uncle used to be a game keeper up in inverness.

[judy29]

mate you said you were at school,? if your only 14 or 15 dont carry weight. it may cause you serious injury coz your growing. :lol!:

[Jamie T]

I'll be 18 next month, I'm in year 13.

GhostBear, I was born in Inverness but lived in Plokton, Tillyfurie and Forres. Now I'm in Plymouth

Thanks for all the advice everyone.

-Jamie-

[rabby]

Since I am looking to run WITH a backpack, I went to the likes of TISO but all those packs didn't have a decent waist belt to keep it secure, all they had was pathetic little straps. I want a decent padded, secure and sturdy pack that wont shoogle everywhere with every step.

Any ideas lads where to go???