Darren Heins
Where are you from?
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
How did you get into rucking?:
I have always hiked with a pack; but Daniel Higdon, a fellow Rucking Tough Rucker, introduced me to actual rucking. It was life changing.
Why do you ruck?:
For me, it is the mental health aspect. Rucking and being in nature has helped my emotional, mental, and physical health. And while the first step is always hardest; I love every moment of it.
Favorite ruck so far?:
The Gritty Soldier Trailblazer ruck. I added my own spin to it, and completed it on a trail that made it harder for myself. The Valentine’s Day Couples Ruck, that my wife and I completed together, is worth mentioning as a very close second.
What has been the hardest lesson you’ve learned under a ruck?
A good pack with a belt, good shoes, and a good set headphones or earbuds goes a long way. Add friendship and you can go all day.
What is your go-to ruck setup?
I do not consider myself a name-brand lover; but after months of testing, the GORUCK Rucker 4.0 with a belt, a 30lb weight, and GORUCK MACV-2 midtop is perfect. I have almost every pack, from Savotta to Mystery Ranch. It’s an ADHD obsession. My poor wife.
What is your advice for new ruckers?
Drink plenty of water, take naproxen or ibuprofen, start slow, walk with friends, join a group like this where you see others and can get helpful advice.
What event are you training for next?
The Gritty Soldier THE LEGION MARCH. Realistically, I don’t think I have the speed in me; but I am going to try my best!
Fun fact about you outside of rucking:
I sit behind a desk all day at my day job. I use the metals as motivation to get out and get at it!
