There’s an art to using machetes. You don’t just tightly grab the handle and chop back and forth. That’s how you tire yourself out quickly.
Instead, you want to use velocity and momentum to carry the blade through vegetation.
You want to pinch onto the handle with your forefinger, thumb, and middle finger. It’s a loose hold, not a death grip.
Then, when you swing, do so at a 45-degree angle downward. Use your whole arm and, in fact, your whole body. No one part of your body should be where all the force comes from.
Lastly, be very sure that no rocks or bystanders are in the way of your swing! Safety is very important, and it’s on you to make sure you’re using a machete safely.