Challenge · 2026
100-Metre Suitcase Carry Challenge: Stay Tall Under Load
Carry one weight for 100 metres, splitting the distance evenly between hands. Today’s test rewards steady steps, a secure grip and an upright posture—not speed.
By Richard Branson ·
The challenge
Complete 10 rounds of a 10-metre suitcase carry. Hold one weight beside your body, walk five metres out and five metres back, then change hands. Start with your right hand and alternate each round to finish with 50 metres per side. Choose a load you can carry without leaning or losing your grip.
How to do it
- Clear and measure a five-metre lane. Leave enough space at each end to turn without hitting anything with the weight.
- Warm up with 60 seconds of easy marching and 10 unloaded hip hinges.
- Test your chosen load with a short carry in each hand. These preparation metres do not count towards the challenge. Reduce the load if you lean or struggle to hold it securely.
- Bend through your hips and knees to pick up the weight with your right hand. Stand tall with your arm beside you.
- Walk five metres, turn slowly using small steps, then walk five metres back. That is round one: 10 metres.
- Set the weight down under control. Rest if needed, then pick it up with your left hand for the next round.
- Repeat until you have completed 10 rounds, alternating hands every round. If you stop mid-length, resume from that point; only distance walked with the weight counts.
- Finish at 100 metres. Record your load and rest breaks, noting whether you maintained an upright posture on both sides.
Scale it
Make it easier with a lighter weight or a bag containing just a few light items. Take a rest after every round if needed. With limited space, use a 2.5-metre lane and complete four lengths per round. To make it harder, increase the load slightly while keeping the same distance and controlled pace. Do not add speed to compensate for an awkward weight.
Coaching tips
Keep your ribs over your pelvis, eyes ahead and shoulders level. Let the loaded arm hang naturally rather than shrugging. Take short, quiet steps and breathe throughout. Set the weight down before your grip fails. If you start leaning, pause and reduce the load; stop if you feel pain, numbness or dizziness.