Read this article to find out more about the Stamina mechanic in Death Stranding. Find out how to manage it effectively & finish your order!
Table of Contents
What Is Endurance (Light Blue Bar)?
The Energy Level Of Sam

The light blue bar is Endurance. It shows the energy level of Sam that's used when he does hard activities like running, climbing, and holding breath. Think of it as the charge in a battery, which drains as you do arduous stunts.
Recovers Quickly
Endurance recovers quickly when Sam isn't doing anything that requires physical exertion. Stopping for a while will recover it, so pause a bit if Endurance is about to run out.
Can't Bear The Load If Depleted
When Endurance bar is fully depleted, Sam cannot bear his load and will easily fall down, usually damaging cargo in the process. Take a pause to let Endurance recover.
What Is Stamina (Dark Blue Bar)?
The Durability Of Sam's Body

The dark blue bar under Endurance is called Stamina. It represents the overall durability of Sam's body, and is used up when Sam's physical condition takes damage or strain, such as when crossing a cold river.
Doesn't Recover Without Actions
Unlike Endurance, Stamina requires active actions from the player in order to recover. It is difficult to recover Stamina quickly in the field, but drinking water & taking a break helps a bit.
Depletes Under Strain Or Exposure
Stamina is usually depleted when running, enduring the elements or fighting. Think of it as the durability of a battery, which gets damaged when forced to be used under constant strain.
Reduces Max Endurance When Low
Depleted Stamina will lower your Max Endurance gauge, further limiting your actions.
When Is Endurance Used?
Climbing

Climbing can be initiated when you approach obstacles that you cannot walk over. Hold Triangle key to climb over obstacles or up vertical slopes, depleting Endurance. You'll fall if Endurance bar is depleted.
Holding Your Breath

Holding your breath is used when BTs are in the vicinity. You can crouch down and hold your breath to evade them, but it will use up your Stamina. If you hold your breath when Endurance bar is depleted, you lose Blood Levels.
Crossing Steep Terrain

Crossing steep terrain will quickly lower Endurance. Use scan to find a smoother path.
How to Use Odradek Scanner guideWhen Is Stamina Used?
Running

To run, press the the left control stick button to go into running mode, and press it again to stop. Sam will start to move significantly faster, at the cost of Stamina.
Staying In Water
Simply being in water will drain Stamina. Walk along rivers and only enter bodies of water when necessary.
Moving In Strong Winds
Moving in strong winds will drain more stamina. Move out of the zone quickly, or find cover.
When Tackling Enemies
When Tackling mules in mule camps, stamina will drain faster. Use stealth to take them out without too much brawling.
What Are Mule Bases?How To Manage Stamina Effectively
Avoid Running Too Much
Running too much can deplete your stamina gauge, especially when under a heavy load. Use it only when needed or you'll run out od stamina during crucial phases.
Avoid Mountains Or Use A Ladder

Complicated terrain will use a lot of stamina, so it might be better to avoid climbing mountains unless necessary. If you need to climb, bring a ladder or a rope. Using a ladder or rope will not consume any stamina!
Use Scan To Avoid Steep Terrain

Use scan to spot places where you could easily trip. If there is rough terrain ahead of you, make sure to use this feature. Tripping can cause you to lose endurance and damage your cargo.
Reduce Your Cargo Load
One other option is to simply reduce how much cargo you're carrying. The more cargo you have, the more stamina you will use up.
Be Careful While Crossing Rivers

Going through water drains your stamina & endurance rapidly. Make sure to take breaks when doing this in order to ensure you don't drown. Standing still in the river will recover your stamina.
How To Recover Stamina?
Rest In Your Private Room

Resting in your Private Room will fully recover your Stamina. It is the most effective way to recover all your stamina bar.
Take A Rest In The Field
Take a rest when out in the field, slowing recovering stamina. If your Blood level is lowered, you can also take a nap to recover it during rest.
Drink Water

Drinking water is a reliable way of restoring stamina when on the field. Keep in mind that if you run out of water, you can refill your canteen during Time Fall (raining) . You can also refill it in your private room.
Check out your Private Room guide here!Bathe In A Hot Spring
If you spot a hot spring, make sure to jump in because they will also restore your stamina, while soothing BB along the way.
What Is BB (Bridge Baby)?Go Into A Safe Zone
Resting in proximity to a facility or other safe zones will recover your stamina at a faster rate. Find shelter when the trip is taking its toll.