Let’s say you have a loop route. In one direction it’s mostly gently, but consistently and perceptively, uphill with several big descents and in the other direction it’s mostly gently downhill with several big climbs. Which direction do you pick?
I tend to pick the generally downhill route. I’d rather get my climbs over quickly on steep hills than slog it out going slowly uphill over a long distance.
I would prefer the gentle downhill for sure. I tend to think about it in terms of potential energy. Everytime I ascend I store some energy in the form of potential energy. If I descend gently, I can make use of that energy little by little. Every step feels lighter on the way down. If I have to take a steep descend I have to waist the stored energy. If I would use it, I would become too fast and hurt myself. I have to make sure I safely disperse the energy.
I do not have any preference for a steep vs a gentle climb, though. I have to put in the energy either way