This Hiking Rest Break Strategy May Look Odd, But It Can Help You Recover Way Faster

Long or challenging hikes are one of the most fulfilling outdoor experiences you can have. Whether you're committing to a single-day hike or prepping for your first thru-hike, completing a solid trek takes a steady balance of fuel, supplies, and arguably the most important, rest. Even though many hikers don't want to admit it, rest is as essential to a hike as good hiking boots are. For some, rest looks like sitting by a river and eating a granola bar. For others, it might mean setting your pack down and getting in a quick stretch. However, some hikers say that the best way to maximize your break time is by lying down.

It seems silly, the thought of lying down along the Appalachian Trail when you're not planning to stop for the night, but the benefits of resting this way outweigh the weirdness you may feel while doing it. The most glaringly obvious being that you get to lie down in the middle of a hike. In fact, relieving your body from heavy gear, kicking your feet up, and leaning back should be seen as a necessary step rather than a last resort. Seasoned hiker and blogger David Ashley from David on Earth says, "It's not about stopping because you're exhausted; it's about taking proactive, intentional breaks that refresh your body and mind, allowing you to sustain your energy, reduce muscle fatigue, and appreciate your surroundings more fully."

In addition to sustaining your energy and easing muscle soreness, lying down has a plethora of other benefits to back up its validity. It is a great way to quickly calm your body and recover from high levels of activity, as lying down quickly slows your heart rate. This can help you catch your breath and actually recover rather than quickly sitting for a moment and then carrying on. Taking full advantage of your breaks can ensure that you are able to maintain energy for the entire hike. If you elevate your feet while lying down, you can encourage blood flow and circulation throughout your legs that will prevent your muscles from becoming sore or tight.

Lying down can also help you take in the scenic hiking trail you've set out on. If your goal is to connect with nature, take some time during your break to look around, spot some birds, and feel the breeze on your face. Engaging in mindfulness on your hikes can be just as fulfilling as the number of miles you cover on your journey. So next time you're out for a hike, plan to stop, kick your feet up, and enjoy the scenery. Your feet will thank you for it.