Rucking: The New Trend in Fitness

Dec 9, 2025
39 mins

Episode Description

Summary

In this conversation, Ali Damron and Kayla Girgen discuss the benefits of rucking, a form of exercise that involves walking with weight.

Kayla shares her journey from a corporate job to becoming a registered dietitian and personal trainer, emphasizing the importance of evolving perspectives on nutrition. They explore the role of AI in nutrition coaching, the integration of rucking with other forms of exercise, and the significance of managing stress and sleep for overall health.

Kayla also highlights her upcoming book and programs designed to help women navigate their health journeys, particularly during midlife.


Takeaways

Rucking is an accessible and effective form of exercise for women.
Nutrition perspectives have evolved significantly over the years.
AI can assist in nutrition coaching but cannot replace human interpretation.
Rucking provides both physical and mental health benefits.
It's important to integrate rucking with strength training for optimal results.
Women can start rucking with as little as 10 pounds of weight.
Rucking can help manage stress and improve blood sugar levels.
Sleep and stress management are crucial for weight management in midlife.
CGMs provide valuable insights into how lifestyle factors affect health.
Community support is essential for maintaining motivation in health journeys.


Sound bites

"Rucking is walking with weight."
"Rucking can help counter bone density."
"Rucking is cardio that doesn't suck."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rucking and Kayla's Journey
03:01 The Evolution of Nutrition Perspectives
06:08 The Role of AI in Nutrition and Coaching
08:57 Understanding Rucking: Benefits and Basics
11:50 Rucking vs. Traditional Strength Training
15:00 Equipment Choices for Rucking
18:09 Integrating Rucking into a Fitness Routine
21:08 Rucking as a Sustainable Exercise Option
24:18 Rucking vs. Traditional Cardio
33:00 Navigating Mid-Life Weight Changes
41:20 The Role of Data in Stress Management
43:25 Upcoming Projects and Community Engagement

Find Kayla Online:

KaylaGirgenRD.com

TikTok

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

LinkedIn

Ali's Resources: 

Calm the Chaos: Practical Tips and Tools for Stopping Anxiety in It's Tracks Course!

Consults with Ali 

Fullscript (Get 25% off all supplements for Black Friday)

BIOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough 25-33% off using code ALIDAMRON10 www.alidamron.com/magnesium

Master Your Perimenopause Course + Toolkit

"Am I in Perimenopause?" Checklist. 

What Hormone is Imbalanced? Quiz!

Fullscript (Get 10% off all supplements)

"How To Balance Your Hormones For Better Sleep, Mood, Periods and Energy" Free, On Demand Training

Website 

Ali's Instagram

Ali's Facebook Group: Holistic Health with Ali Damron 

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