Our Story (So Far)

The Pleasant Hill / Martinez Ruck Club started with Jon, the founder, looking for a sustainable way to get back in shape. Running seemed like the obvious answer — until the hills around his house and throughout the area made casual runs feel more punishing than motivating. Looking for another option, he rediscovered rucking. As a former Army paratrooper, Jon was already familiar with the practice and was excited to see how rucking had been adapted for civilian life as an effective, low-impact way to build strength and endurance.

What began as solo rucks on local trails didn’t stay solo for long. A casual mention at a kid’s birthday party turned into two people rucking together. From there, word spread naturally among local dads, and those shared miles became the foundation of what is now the PHM Ruck Club.

While the club is rooted in connection and conversation, it isn’t just about hanging out. Rucking is real work. The emphasis is on getting fit from wherever you’re starting — dad bods welcome - Jon still very much has one. Members can join for traditional rucks, participate in optional club “ruck workouts,” or do both. Carry as much or as little weight as you like, push yourself when you want to, and scale it back when you need to. The goal is consistency, effort, and showing up — not comparison or competition.

Come as you are. Carry what feels right. Earn your patch.