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Published: November 13th 2012
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The Rest Step.
The Rest Step is a technique I learned during a basic mountaineering clinic. However, I found its effectiveness so great and applications so far reaching, I thought it worthy of sharing. It seems like information that could possibly save a life someday!
If you were taking a stroll, your normal cadence would be: step, step, step, step, in a rhythmic fashion.
If you were doing the Rest Step, it would look like this: step, step, pause . . . step, step, pause . . . It’s not a long pause, just a ½ second or second.
Do this experiment: Take a walk up a short flight of stairs as you normally would, just one foot after the other. Notice your heart rate and how your muscles feel when you get to the top. Now go up the same flight of stairs using the Rest Step.
Step, step, pause . . . step, step, pause . . . Take note of the difference and I think you’ll see what I’m talking about!
For mountaineering purposes the Rest Step is invaluable. Generally the distances in mountain climbing are long, the terrain
steep, and of course, there is less oxygen at elevation. As you climb and oxygen levels decrease, the Rest Step allows just a little extra time for your body to acclimate, generally eliminating symptoms of altitude sickness. A huge load is taken off of your cardiovascular system, helping you to continue for long distances, and the micro-break helps with muscle fatigue so you can sustain the long, taxing climb.
I can see the Rest Step being useful in everyday life, however, and something everyone should test out for themselves.
Say your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere and you have no cell signal. The only option is to walk, but it’s a long distance. You find yourself getting winded and don’t think you can make it. Use the Rest Step and you’ll find you can go further than you ever thought possible.
If you are deconditioned and want to get in shape, but every time you try, you’re out of breath before you even get started. Your muscles are burning and it’s just too hard. Use the Rest Step. That ten minute hill walk that was impossible before, is now under your belt!
You find yourself unwell and in need of medical attention, but there is no one around. You’re on your own and have to make it to your car, or even just to the phone - use the Rest Step. It keeps taxation on the heart low and will help keep your mind calm.
The difference is astounding and I encourage everyone to try this technique on a set of stairs, a hill, or whatever your level is, so that you can experience it for yourself. The Rest Step may save a life someday, or simply help you reach the top of that mountain!
Try it, Use it, Share it!! 😱
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Jack Jones
non-member comment
Sounds like a good piece of advise. Will give it a try...............