Why You Should Add Loaded-Carry Exercises to Your Strength Routine

Also called a farmer’s walk, this most basic carry is the perfect carry to master before switching things up with single-arm or overhead variations. Don’t be afraid to push the weight once you get used to the exercise, McHale recommends. It’s OK if your grip gives out.

How to:

• Place a dumbbell or kettlebell on the floor next to each of your feet.
• Squat to grab onto the weights with a neutral, palms-in grip.
• Keeping your chest up and core braced, stand up.
• Walk forward, keeping an upright torso and engaging your abs so that the weight doesn’t dump into your low back. Imagine there’s a string connected to the top of your head that’s pulling you toward the ceiling.
• When you're finished, squat to place the weight back on the floor.