Ruck Load Trainer - A possible evolvement of the training rucksack?

Redwood · 07-26-2014, 23:02

I stumbled across this device online while seeking out information for loading my A.L.I.C.E. pack correctly with weight (pictures and links below)

Sorinex, one of the two manufacturers of this device that I found, claim that "the Sorinex Load Trainer was designed by an active US Special Forces Operations Soldier..."

I wanted to see if anyone here was familiar with this ruck device or if anyone had thoughts on its usefulness for helping to prepare for SFAS,

When I ruck march, I typically use weight plates wrapped in sheets or towels and then placed in my large ALICE pack with the weight dispersed (the majority of it near the frame of my upper back). However, I am very new to rucking (just about a dozen ruck marches) and realize that I have much to learn technique wise. All I know is that the weight seems to easily shift in my ruck and I do not believe I am wearing it in an optimal fashion.

I thought that this could be a useful training tool that would allow for quick and precise weight changes, while keeping the weight strategically placed on my body. If so, I could see how this may help prevent some injuries.

However, before shelling out $89 + shipping, I wanted to hear thoughts from others. The $89 is just for the device that is mounted to an A.L.I.C.E. pack frame, if one needs a frame, it is an additional $40 for a used one.

Another company, Innovative Performance, appears to sell an identical product for the same price.

Regardless, I am still trying to learn more about proper rucking techniques and continue to utilize my A.L.I.C.E. pack.

Thank you,

Redwood

Links:

http://kitup.military.com/2012/07/fi...n-weights.html

http://store.sorinex.com/Sorinex-Loa...r-p/sor-lt.htm

http://www.innovativeperformance.co/page7.php

Last hard class · 07-27-2014, 00:01

I will sell you my sandbag for $79.00. Includes free shipping

More rucking, more saving.

LHC

x SF med · 07-27-2014, 01:00

If you load a ruck with similar items to what you will carry in the field you accomplish multiple goals:
1) the feel of a ruck packed, stacked and as a growth on your back
2) learning HOW to pack a ruck so you can get to the items you use most and where to place items in the ruck so you don't break your back
3) how the ruck packed will feel and how it affects your personal cooling process (that rack thing lets way more air get behind you than you will ever see with a full Tick)
4) how to care for your equipment in a real world setting.

So, spend all the money you want on a weight rack for your back, or accomplish multiple goals and do it like you will do it in whatever unit you finally get to.

Not that I've ever carried a ruck or anything

CDRODA396 · 07-27-2014, 05:37

Best way to get better at push ups is to do push ups....best way to train for rucking is...well you get the point...

Scimitar · 07-27-2014, 06:18

I went down to Home Depot
Bought 3 dozen sandbags and 80 lbs of sand
Double bagged 5 lbs units
And threw them in the corner of the garage
Put some towels in the bottom of the ALICE to get the weight high.
Added a 5lbs bag every weeks or so.
Never had any issue knowing what weight I was rucking.
What you have there is a $100 solution to a $5 problem.

But what do I know.

Made a replica "Rubber Duck" out of 39.5" x 1.5" PVC piping full of sand with stoppers at each end too. Got it weighing about 8 lbs. I think that cost me $4.00

Just saying.

S

cetheridge · 07-27-2014, 07:24

Redwood......

Some more tips!

You might want to fill in your profile before going any further.

The above comments should give you some insight into using the "tried and proven" methods of ruck training.
Did you consider the cost of the plate weights (if you don't already have them)?

Improvising (SF Fieldcraft) is inexpensive and "It Works"!

Just some thoughts from a FOG.

k-rub · 07-27-2014, 08:06

Unless it has changed since I was there, ALICE packs are no longer used.

Getting ahold of a MOLLE pack for training would be optimal.

Redwood · 07-27-2014, 08:58

Thank you, gentlemen. It certainly looks like an interesting concept, but I can definitely see the importance of training as if I were doing the real thing. Plus, $89 is not pocket change for a college student.

Now I just need to learn to do the real thing the right way. Research and, much more so, time under a ruck will accomplish that.

Redwood · 07-27-2014, 09:08

Quote:

Originally Posted by k-rub

Unless it has changed since I was there, ALICE packs are no longer used.

Getting ahold of a MOLLE pack for training would be optimal.

You are correct, sir. At this point in time, obtaining an ALICE pack was the most practical and inexpensive means for me to practice rucking. However, as soon as possible, I would like to get my hands on a MOLLE system.

Redwood · 07-27-2014, 09:19

Quote:

Originally Posted by cetheridge

Redwood......

Some more tips!

You might want to fill in your profile before going any further.

The above comments should give you some insight into using the "tried and proven" methods of ruck training.
Did you consider the cost of the plate weights (if you don't already have them)?

Improvising (SF Fieldcraft) is inexpensive and "It Works"!

Just some thoughts from a FOG.

Profile is now complete. Thanks for the reminder.

I am curious to try the device, but for now I don't have money to spend on experimenting with equipment that is in essence unnecessary.

I will focus on applying the tips that have been provided.

**The Reaper** · 07-27-2014, 11:03

Like sand, water is heavy and tuneable to your exact weight requirement.

I would skip the HSLD devices.

TR

**Joker** · 07-27-2014, 11:18

I do not know of one person that went through the course with that contraption nor do I know of any person that went to war with a gym rat plate in their ruck. Train as you will be executing in the 5-meter objective. "Hooah" crap like that is just to separate you from your money and a 45-55 lb ruck will do you better.

Redwood · 07-27-2014, 11:59

Quote:

Originally Posted by The Reaper

Like sand, water is heavy and tuneable to your exact weight requirement.

I would skip the HSLD devices.

TR

Thanks, TR. I would not be at all surprised if some liter bottles filled with water worked a whole lot better than weight plates. I'll make sure to tape the tops securely to keep them from screwing off.

Redwood · 07-27-2014, 12:01

Quote:

Originally Posted by Joker

I do not know of one person that went through the course with that contraption nor do I know of any person that went to war with a gym rat plate in their ruck. Train as you will be executing in the 5-meter objective. "Hooah" crap like that is just to separate you from your money and a 45-55 lb ruck will do you better.

I see your point, Joker. My money will stay in my wallet. Thank you.