Loaded march

In many countries, the ability to complete loaded marches is a core military skill, especially for infantry and special forces.

According to Vegetius, during the four-month initial training of a Roman legionary, loaded marches were taught before recruits ever handled a weapon, since any formation would be split up by stragglers at the back or soldiers trundling along at differing speeds.

Training also included some forced marches of 20–30 miles, often followed by the construction of basic defences for an overnight position.

British infantry soldiers in Afghanistan conducted four-hour patrols carrying an average of 50 kilograms (110 lb) of equipment, going into battle with that weight if they encountered enemy fighters.

Various marches of much longer distances are also a part of training such as the "Kepi march" of 50 kilometers (31 mi) in full combat gear carrying a rifle, helmet and 22 kilograms (49 lb) load and the "Raid march" of 100 km in full combat gear carrying a rifle, helmet and 22 kilograms (49 lb) load simulating the navigation to and raiding of different checkpoints over a 3 day period.

As part of the pre-selection for the Foreign Legion's GCP section, legionnaires must complete a 30 kilometers (19 mi) speed march in under 4 hours in full combat gear, including boots, carrying assault rifle, helmet, two full canteens of water and 22 kilograms (49 lb) load.

In order to gain the Expert Infantryman Badge (a further qualification for existing infantry personnel) candidates must complete an individual ruck march of 19 kilometers (12 mi) within three hours, carrying a load (with rifle) weighing up to 31.75 kilograms (70 lb).