But at the end of the race the hare was the exhausted loser while the tortoise was the relaxed winner. On hikes I'm often reminded of the fable. Enthusiastic hikers race ahead, then need to rest to catch their breath and cool off while the more experienced hikers and mountain climbers, the tortoises, set themselves a pace, keep moving along and enjoy a pleasant outing. I've been training myself on pacing so that my breathing is more uniform. I can even carry on a conversation while hiking uphill.
Pacing means a steady rate of stepping out, of breathing and exertion.
If the terrain is flat or slightly downhill, then a long stride is appropriate. If it gets steep, I shorten my stride but keep the same pace. It's the big exertions on the leg muscles that are tiring. I'm told the most exhausting climb is up long stairs where you need to lift the body in large amounts on each step. It's better to just lift a little on each step.