Rucking comes to Garmin watches with Tactix 8 launch

Garmin has just dropped the Tactix 8, and along with it comes a new Rucking activity profile. Yep, for the first time ever, you can track your Rucking workouts on a Garmin watch. For now Tactix 8 is the only device from the company with this feature.

If you’re wondering what Rucking is, it’s basically walking with extra weight strapped to you – usually a backpack or vest. Think hiking but with more burn, thanks to the added load.

As shown in the images, Garmin lets you input the weight you’re carrying – so your calorie burn and fitness stats are way more accurate. It doesn’t matter if you are hauling a weighted pack or just giving your kid a piggyback ride, your watch will know you’re working harder than a casual stroll.

The feature is long-overdue. It’s a bit of a mystery as to why Garmin has not included it until now.

Will it be coming to other watches?

Currently, this new activity is exclusive to the Tactix 8. But let’s be real, it’s only a matter of time before Garmin pushes it out to other top-tier watches like the Fenix 8, Forerunner 965, and Epix Pro 2. Those models already have the tech to handle it, so it’s just a waiting game at this point. Our guess is as part of the Q2 2025 firmware update cycle.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

This new feature is a win for anyone who’s been frustrated with their Garmin not accounting for the extra weight they carry during walks or hikes. No more misleading heart rate spikes or calorie counts that don’t reflect your actual effort.

Rucking has been getting more popular lately because it’s simple but effective. It’s a solid cardio workout and helps build strength in your legs and core. Now that Garmin is on board, tracking those gains is going to be much easier. And if you’re wondering why you need a special activity profile for what seems like walking – well, it’s all about context. When your watch knows you’re carrying weight, it can adjust your stats accordingly, making your data way more reliable.

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