More and more fitness trainers and professionals the world over are gravitating towards simpler, holistic movements that train multiple parts of the body simultaneously. Such workouts - whether they are compound exercises (movements that exercise multiple muscle groups simultaneously) or part of what is known as functional training (exercises that mimic real-life movements) - save time, are more efficient and make workouts more intense and engaging.
Loaded carries - of which the farmer's carry is an example - have become a staple among fitness professionals across the world. The reason: they are simple, effective and they target multiple muscles and joints, with multiple benefits for our overall health. They are not only considered a strength training workout; they also double up as excellent endurance building exercises.
The farmer’s walk or the farmer’s carry may have been popularised by strongman competitions held around the world, but ordinary people from all walks of life - quite literally - have been practising this exercise in their daily lives for centuries.
Much like some of the simpler yet essential bodyweight exercises like push-ups or squats, farmer’s carry must be viewed as an integral part of any fitness programme, as a single movement practically works every part of the body. But the maximum gain occurs in the person’s overall posture.