Which trail down is easier on the knees?
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Which trail down is easier on the knees?

by Lori
(Chicago)

When I read that the Subashiri trail had sand, I thought that would be less jarring and thus easier on the knees, but I read someone commenting that it was harder.

Which do you think?

Thanks

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Aug 25, 2013
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thanks
by: Anonymous

Thanks Gary!

Aug 25, 2013
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They're ALL steep!
by: Gary Wolff

Lori, all the trails are very steep and there's very little one can do to prevent the buildup of lactic acid on the knees when descending, so I don't believe there is any strategy in choosing a particular trail to eliminate knee pain.

According to my calculations, the Subashiri trail has the second lowest percent grade (if that's any consolation), :-) but running down the Osunabashiri (sand slope, 大砂走り) may not be necessarily easier on your knees, and if anything, usually winds up jamming a climber's toes against the front of their boot.

If I were you, I'd make sure I had hard-soled boots with good ankle support & tops high enough (or gaiters) to prevent volcanic gravel and small pebbles from getting into your boots on your descent.

And good trekking poles or a Mt. Fuji walking stick can take some of the stress & strain off your knees.

More details comparing the steepness of the various Mt. Fuji trails are here: https://www.garyjwolff.com/climbing-mt-fuji.html#31

Best wishes with your climb!


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