the downward two-step: an English teacher's tips for getting through the subway like a superhero

Im taking the stairs two at a time these days - going down.

Ive always taken them two at a time going up but now im trying the much trickier downward two-step.

It all started a couple weeks ago walking from the bus to the subway - thats what i do for a living - im a business english teacher so i run from office to office - my job is essentially to be on time five or six times a day - once i get to each appointment, i chat a bit in english and then rush off to the next one.

i use all the tricks for travelling efficiently - i get on the subway last, so i can take the spot by the door and get off first, i choose my subway car based on which will be closer to the exit at my stop - im tall, so i can take the stairs two at a time going up... and now going down too

cause one day this kid with a skateboard had got my spot by the door on the bus, so i had to pass him heading for the stairs - i pass everyone anyway cause im fast and have a long stride - and you have to pass people before the escalators - its such a bottle neck - so i walk between the big pillars at the station while everyone else walks around and i get to the stairs first

the downward one-step used to put me on a level playing field with shorter people. sometimes theyd catch me again. the downward one step hobbled me.

so anyway, i passed this kid and then i did the downward one-step like a madman, trying my best to stay ahead or maybe even squeeze out a couple extra strides on him - if i was fast enough

and then this kid just dropped down the steps - whoosh - he was gone - he was taking the steps two at a time - on the landing i reeled him in a bit but then he dropped away again and was gone

the downward two-step - so smoothly - while carrying a skateboard - i was shocked, awed, impressed and most importantly: inspired.

since then ive been taking them two at at time too - slowly - getting comfortable - its a great new way to work your whole leg and improve balance and timing - i find myself looking forward to the steps, smiling as i approach a downward run of stairs - its so fun

my goal right now is to get comfortable enough with the downward two-step that i dont even think about it - after that, im going to try the downward three-step - and after that: flying.

ill let you know...