From: Brutus of Wyde Newsgroups: rec.climbing Subject: Re: Technique question: How to overcome lack of reach? Date: Tue, 12 Sep 2000 15:27:40 GMT Meeowser: Although I have a positive ape index, and am considerably taller than some, I am also shorter than many taller folks. Here's a few short-person techniques I have compiled over the years: Toe on point like a ballet dancer. Stand on one foot with the other foot. Stand on partner's hand For sideways reaches, heel orientation and location of the foot on the furthest edge of the hold can gain a few inches Mantle! Push that mantle down until you can stand on that hold! Stem things that others just reach past. look for ways you can use blank walls (like stemming) stand in a sling yard on gear stick-clip shoulder-stand tension lasso a feature then batman chimney the adjacent crack high-step, flag, smear, scum dyno (in the gym) use off-route holds or draws undercling Offwidths! flexibility abs full-body bridges pay no attention to ratings leave ego at the bottom of the climb and, as a last resort, fall off Hope this helps! Brutus