Have you tried running with a backpack (rucksack)?

[Oldgirl]

I was running behind time this morning, had been out for a run 5Km and had my shower, then realised it was Aqua Gym class day which used to be Friday but just changed last week to a Monday. Oh no, I was going to be late, so rucksack on my back and had no option but to run to the gym. Its not that far about 1.75Km but with a pack on my back that was a whole different ball game. Does anyone run carrying a rucksack if so any tips please?

[Rose885 Graduate]

I've walked up hills with a backpack and that's hard enough! It's probably just something you would have to practice. I've seen people running with those small backpacks that sit really tight to you body, that's probably important so it's not jumping around all over the place.

[Anonymous36 Graduate]

I've not tried it but I've seen people run with those backpacks that fasten around your middle, probably to stop it whacking you in the back as it bobs up and down?

[Wantadog]

I know nothing about running but when it comes to walking it is important that females especially fasten the hip and sternum straps on your pack. This means that the weight is being carried on your hips, not your shoulders - think about it, we're designed to carry babies not lead shoulder pads! The hip strap and pads should bear the weight, the sternum strap should stop the bag from falling back away from your body. I can easily slide my hands in under the shoulder straps on my packs, they literally carry no weight whatsoever. I reckon getting this right (if it isn't already) should help a bit.

[Alaiyo Graduate]

Wantadog is very correct. Running with a pack is a bonus challenge, but not a bad one. The trick is to use the right pack and wear it properly. Running to catch a bus with a school book bag flapping about is fine, but if you actually want to consider really running, you want a pack that is 1) Not too heavy. You will have to decide what that means, but more than 15-20 pounds is A LOT if you aren't trained for it. 2) Have the weight distributed properly in the bag. Heavy things in close to the body, in the bottom of the sack. 3) Have the weight distributed properly on your body: carry the weight on the hips, and keep the pack snug up against your back. Shoulder straps should not be carrying much of the weight. So wear the hip and sternum straps, and compress the bag in towards your back as much as you can, especially up near your shoulders.

It probably goes without saying that you should also expect this to be challenging enough without going top speed. Be kind to your body and joints and set a reasonable pace for yourself.

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Thank you all for replies. I used to hill walk (we have wonderful munroes in my neck of the woods) so even way back then we always watched how we packed our rucksacks also when buy a new one it had to fit correctly. Me being really small had fun and games getting the right one. To be honest I hadn't thought about these factors yesterday when I grabbed my rucksack to jog to the gym. Not sure if I'll make a habit of it but it did mean that had I been going to do a workout I wouldn't have had to do a warm up on the bike or rowing machine, I was pretty well warmed up with the jogging!