Tai Ngyuen

Name: Tai Nguyen

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Vietnam. Currently reside in Virginia.

How did you get into rucking?

Fort Benning Georgia was where it all started for me. Rucking was no stranger for Infantryman

Why do you ruck?

Rucking helps me cope with my mental health side of things. It makes me feel good about myself, it pushes me to be better. Rucking also open more opportunities as far as reaching out to bigger community and events.

What has been your favorite ruck so far?

Probably the Danish Flyver March which I did on August 29th at Fort Lee. Solely because this was the first time it being held in the US as an Official Military Event.

What is the hardest lesson you've learned on a ruck?

The hardest lesson I've learned on a ruck was to invest in a good pair of socks. A good pair of socks will definitely go a long way!

What is your go-to ruck setup?

Pack, weight, footwear, gear, etc.

I set up my ruck high up on my shoulder and distributed the weight evenly. Heavier items go on top. I used Alice Pack as my ruck since now that I am out of the Army, Alice ruck felt most comfortable for me. As for socks I am using fox river and boots is Garmont t8 NSF and Garmont T8 Bifida depends on the terrain I can switch it between the two. For weight I usually do 35lbs dry.

What advice would you give to a new rucker?

Go light weight in the beginning and shorter distance. You build it up as you go, you don't want to jump in to quick with heavy weight as it will create injuries.

What is the next event you're training for?

Norwegian Foot March

What is a fun fact about you outside of rucking?

I am in school to become Electrician. Right now I am an Apprentice, I am a member of IBEW 666 also a member of Local 666 Veterans Committee.

TAI NGUYEN - VIRGINIA, USA