This article reminded me of a hiking skill I never mastered - the Rocky Mountain Rest Step (the name I learned it by, but I have heard others). It's pretty simple - when hiking on steep slopes, especially with weight (a heavy pack), you train yourself to lock your knee when stepping up to conserve energy and "rest". I always found it rather uncomfortable, but I have climbed with many strong mountaineers who swear by it.

http://rockymountainhikingtrails.blogspot.com/2012/09/learni...