Resting during hiking is essential for maintaining energy and preventing fatigue. Here are some professional tips on effective resting techniques that don't require sitting down:
1. Leaning against a tree trunk: Find a sturdy tree and lean against it to reduce the burden on your legs and relieve pressure.
2. Sitting on a higher spot: Choose a higher location to sit, preferably on a slope or rocks with a small height difference. This way, when you stand up and continue walking, you won't need to exert a lot of energy to lift your entire body.
3. Utilizing a specialized resting method: Place your hands on the knee area to support your upper body, creating a balanced bridge shape. Keep your back straight and ensure the backpack is positioned comfortably on your back. Bend your legs slightly and face the uphill direction, allowing your torso to relax. This technique reduces the sense of weight on your shoulders and relieves pressure on the spine, quickly alleviating fatigue and restoring physical strength. When starting to walk again, gradually return your torso to its normal position instead of lifting it abruptly.
4. Taking deep breaths and slowing down: Take slow, deep breaths and slow down your pace until you feel no strain. Break the rest periods into each step, reducing the need for frequent breaks.
5. Choosing a suitable resting spot: If you decide to sit down, try to find a gentle section of the trail to rest, rather than immediately heading to an elevated area. Resting on a steep incline after a period of calm can suddenly require a significant amount of physical energy, posing a potential danger and wasting energy.
6. Taking small steps and dragging your feet slightly: Taking smaller steps can conserve physical strength. When hiking uphill, avoid lifting your feet too high and instead lightly drag them along the ground, as long as it doesn't compromise safety. Paying attention to these small details and developing the habit of conserving energy can save a significant amount of physical strength.
7. Using hands for assistance: On high platforms or when encountering steep obstacles, use your hands to help lift your legs and then press your knees with your hands to rise up. When faced with a sudden need to climb a high stone platform, avoid relying solely on the strength of your legs to lift your body. Extreme fatigue in the leg muscles can lead to spasms and hinder your progress. Coordinating the use of both upper and lower limbs can save a lot of physical energy and ensure safety.
By following these professional principles of rest while hiking, you can optimize your energy management and enhance your overall hiking experience.
