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 explosion 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 Syrian-African fault and the geopolitical necessity of safeguarding critical infrastructure underground. This study aims to characterize the parameters that influence the behavior of chalks under both static and dynamic loading. Chalks were selected due to their widespread occurrence in Israel, significant heterogeneity and anisotropy, and elastoplastic behavior, which results 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. We present a conceptual spring model that explains the distinctive and variable behavior of chalk rock when loaded parallel and perpendicular to bedding. Our findings indicate that partitioning between stored, elastic, and dissipated energies during the loading process are the key parameters determining ultimate strength. Furthermore, we characterize the various parameters governing the distribution of elastic and dissipated energy under both static and dynamic loading conditions. We believe the results of the study will improve the design of structures in rock for a wide range of applications.