E-I-E-I-GO! 5 Farmer’s Carry Variations for Strength and Endurance

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Farmer's carry exercises building strength everywhere in the body—they also help to improve and maintain balance.

Old McDonald had a farm and some of the best core strength in the county. Why? That old (or so the story tells us) farmer was performing different farmer’s carries all day, much to the benefit of his livestock and his body. When it comes to everyday accessible exercises that practically perform miracles for whole-body strengthening and endurance building, farmer’s carries sit near the head of the class.

Farmer’s carry exercises are variations of what is known as “loaded carry.” In addition to holding something heavy(ish), you’re also taking it somewhere. These exercises are highly effective at taxing muscles and endurance.



They also force you to balance the weight as you move through the environment, challenging the body on several fronts simultaneously. You probably perform loaded carries every week without ever thinking about it. Carrying a basket of laundry counts, as does bringing in the groceries and carrying a child.

“Babycising” hasn’t caught on yet, but maybe someday it will. 1. Classic Farmer’s Carry 2.

Goblet March 3. Overhead Carry 4. Overhead Marching Carry 5.

Suitcase Carry Weighted farmer’s carries and rehab go together like bread and butter—we use them all the time. Given a consistent regimen of these exercises—at least 3 times per week—you will be amazed at how strong and balanced you become..