Quad Fatigue
Overview
Quad fatigue refers to muscular exhaustion in the quadriceps resulting from sustained downhill walking, steep ascents, or high-mileage days. It commonly affects hikers during long descents or early-season conditioning.
Key points
- Caused by eccentric muscle loading during descents.
- Common in early-season hikes before conditioning improves.
- Leads to instability, soreness, and reduced control on steep terrain.
- Prevented through pacing, trekking pole use, and strength training.
- May require rest or modified mileage on subsequent days.
Details
Downhill travel places significant eccentric stress on the quadriceps, often resulting in soreness or weakness later in the day. Long descents, heavy packs, and poor conditioning increase susceptibility. Symptoms include trembling, reduced stability, or difficulty controlling foot placement.
Preventive strategies include using trekking poles, shortening stride length, building leg strength before the trip, and moderating mileage. Adequate recovery time helps reduce long-term discomfort and maintain safe footing on technical terrain.
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