#350 | From Rucking to Mobility: Practical Fitness for the Upland Hunter

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Todd Bumgardner, founder of Pack Mule Training Co., for a deep dive into physical preparation for the uplands. They discuss the shift from extreme "murder yourself" workouts to a philosophy of long-term consistency, focusing on how small, frictionless habits can pay massive dividends come September. Todd brings nearly 20 years of experience training hunters and elite military units to help upland hunters move better, stay resilient, and extend their longevity in the field.

I’ve been following these principles for three years now, and the biggest change for me wasn't some fancy new gear—it was realizing that consistency is the most important variable. I used to tolerate sore shoulders and heavy legs during those first few grouse hunts, but by keeping a simple routine and rucking year-round, those opening-day miles now feel like a breeze. Todd and I dig into the "why" behind Zone 2 cardio, the efficiency of the 20% body weight ruck, and how to outsmart your own willpower by making your training environment frictionless.

Expect to Learn:

Why consistency over a long period is the ultimate driver for progress in the field.
The "environmental design" trick of putting your gear in your way to reduce startup friction.
How to use the 3-mile rucking assessment to establish your baseline aerobic fitness.
Why Zone 2 training acts as your "recovery system" for handling back-to-back hunting days.
The technical benefits of the Zercher squat for hunters looking to protect their spine while building strength.
A simple one-minute mobility routine you can do every morning while your coffee is brewing.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:02:06] – Nick’s Turkey Season Prep and Meadow Creek Mounts Update

[00:05:06] – Meet Todd Bumgardner: Founder of Pack Mule Training Co.

[00:08:37] – Why Consistency is the Most Important Variable in Your Training

[00:13:02] – Reducing Friction: The "Floss One Tooth" Approach to Habits

[00:35:13] – Step-by-Step: The 3-Mile Rucking Assessment

[00:45:10] – The Science of Zone 2 Cardio and Aerobic Efficiency

[01:03:00] – Incline Training: NordicTrack at 40% vs. Stair Climbers

[01:08:43] – The One-Minute Coffee-Brew Mobility Routine

[01:14:00] – Nick’s Minimalist Strength Routine: Pull-ups, Zerchers, and Incline Bench

[01:31:26] – Todd’s Bird Dog Search

Follow The Guest, Todd Bumgardner:

Website: humanpredatorpackmule.com
Instagram: @packmuletrainingco

Follow the Host, Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast
Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: Birdshot Podcast
Apple Podcasts: Birdshot Podcast
YouTube: Birdshot Podcast

SUPPORT:

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on your onX Hunt Subscription
Use Promo Code | BSP10 to save 10% at Meadow Creek Mounts
Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% at Trulock Chokes

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: onX Hunt

Todd’s free PDF download: The Upland Hunter Off-Season Basic Training Program.

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