A deep understanding of rock behavior under static and dynamic loading is essential in various rock mechanics fields, including mining, protection of subterranean infrastructure, design and reinforcement of structures against seismic or an explosive load. The mechanisms governing rock behavior under static loading have been extensively researched, with a well-established correlation between rock density, stiffness, and ultimate strength. The response of rocks to dynamic loading, however, is still not completely understood, despite decades of experimental and theoretical research. Characterizing rock behavior under dynamic loading in Israel is of particular significance, given the region’s proximity to the Dead Sea Rift Zone and the geopolitical necessity of safeguarding critical infrastructure underground. This study aims to characterize the parameters that influence the behavior of chalks under dynamic loading. Chalks were selected due to their widespread occurrence in Israel, significant heterogeneity and anisotropy, and elastoplastic behavior, which result in a complex response during the loading process. Since the rock loading process essentially involves the transfer of energy from an external loading system (the load frame) to the rock (the sample), it is pertinent to examine the characteristics of energy storage and release during this process. Our findings indicate that partitioning between stored, elastic, and dissipated energies during the loading process are the key parameters determining ultimate strength. We found that under dynamic loads the rate of energy transfer to the rock determines the rock's stiffness, its ultimate strength, energy partitioning, and the total amount of energy required to induce failure. We believe the results of the study will contribute to improved design and optimization of rock-based structures across a wide range of engineering applications.