Take travel workouts to the next level with the upgraded EmPack Wander.

We’re officially into the long haul of the winter season. No matter where you live, we’re sure you’re feeling the mundaneness of indoor workouts, gray days and chilly weather. It’s time to keep your goals on track for 2020.

We would like to re-introduce you to the latest and greatest EmPack, The Wander from Evolved Motion. The EmPack is the first and only backpack designed to serve as a weight training pack. The Wander replaces the original EmPack with upgraded features.

Back in August 2018, we reviewed the first version of the weight training pack providing you with directions on how to use and example workouts. As fitness travel freaks ourselves, we are pumped Evolved Motion released an upgraded version just a month ago.

The EmPack is incredibly practical for travelers serving as a backpack and workout tool. Let’s break down the features first.

The EmPack is the typical size of a backpack (height 17; width 13’, depth 5’). It’s made with military grade 1000D Condura and is extremely durable through any workout or adventure.

Every strap is reinforced and double backed with durable nylon webbing. The game changing feature of the EmPack is using water as weight.

Every EmPack comes with two water reservoirs to use as weight wherever you are in the world. One reservoir is suggested for beginners (about 15 pounds), two for intermediate (30 pounds) and four for advanced (60 pounds).

The Wander Upgrades

The original EmPack had a roll top which required more time and effort to get things in and out of the bag. The Wander has a zipper top making it extremely easy to access the contents inside the backpack. This feature is especially important for our travelers who need quick access to their luggage.

There are now two water bottle holders on each side of your bag.

Take your yoga mat with you anywhere thanks to yoga mat straps which make carrying your mat completely secure. The straps for the yoga mat are also super easy to open and close.

An adjustable chest strap has been added to the backpack straps to allow for secure carrying and even light jogging (suggested use is one water reservoir for jogging).

More padding has been added so you can comfortably hike with added weight or carry the backpack through your travels.

New internal reservoir straps will hold your reservoirs in place for a more secure feeling when you’re throwing around your bag.

The Wander ( $159) comes in black and nautical.

Our Thoughts

I’ve been a fan of the EmPack before it existed. I previously used rocks in a hiking backpack to supplement my hikes and outdoor workouts. I was an early adopter when the original EmPack came out (you can still purchase here for $149).

The EmPack combines everything I need to indulge in travel fitness and the Wander is a superior addition to the Evolved Motion family.

The zip top, water bottle holders and yoga strap makes a huge difference with ease of access while traveling. I’ve done a few workouts so far and cannot wait to use my bag more.

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EmPack Wander Workouts

Full Body 20 Minute AMRAP

Complete as many rounds as possible (AMRAP) with this workout that will fire up multiple muscles.

20 Calf Raises (wear EmPack as backpack or behind neck)
18 Alternating Lunges (wear EmPack as backpack or front rack position)
16 Alternating Plank Slides (in plank position, slide EmPack laterally under chest using one hand at a time)
14 Curls
12 Push Press

Cardio Chipper

Complete one round to step up your cardio game in the quickest time possible.

50 Power Cleans
40 Thrusters
30 Single-Arm Kettlebell Swings (using top or bottom strap)
20 Burpees Over Bag (lateral jump over)
10 Per Leg Step-Ups (use a bench or stair step wearing EmPack as backpack or in front rack position)

Photography by Chris Elliot (@just_elliott).