Sometimes its as simple as a unexpected reaction from someone's body. I had to come down from an otherwise very sustainable suspension because my bad shoulder reacted in an unexpected way- even though it wasn't actually part of the tie.

Right now I tie almost exclusively with Nylon, using POSH for uplines for the superior friction/grip. I will only use rated synthetics for uplines, but I'm open to different types of fibers for the rest of my rope, i just highly favor the ease of cleaning and maintenance that nylon gives me, and I tie on a lot of individuals with sensory issues who find that the silkier feel of nylon is more tolerable.

Seconding this!  I really appreciate classes w/ sequences built in so I can visualize how the different parts work together!

Even at my (self-perceived) relatively "intermediate" level, I have definitely experienced that same feeling- the longer I do something, the more I get to see the possibilities I didn't even know existed.  Especially in spaces where there is innovation and growth!  

The main thing that stands out to me with the pictured fisherman is that the chest/arm wraps are clustered pretty close together, and it looks like there's more room on your model's body to spread that out some, which in my experience will usually help with distributing the load a bit assuming you already have good tension.  The biggest thing I have had to practice w/ harnesses like this that have several different wraps is trying to get the tension right in such a way that it results in an even load, which takes practice.

Thank you! This post was already on my "to read" list but it has really helped me solidify some of my strategies. My goal for 2026 is definitely to add some opportunities for our more intermediate tiers to gather more often specifically to focus on rope.

I've fallen victim to the "knows the most about rope locally, so usually has to top" trope, but I am definitely a switch!

Welcome! When it comes to learning new techniques, I like to try to find a basic, pared down version of whatever it is that I'm attempting to learn (unless it's something that I've just fallen in love with the look of). I am far enough along in my rope journey now that even with some of the more complicated things, I can usually break it down to basic pieces as I go, but I will often repeat one part of it multiple times to get it in my head and muscle memory. Of course, everyone is different, too- I have two folks in my local group who do staggered practice each time they learn a new technique, practicing the technique first the next day, then 2 days away, then 4, then 8, etc. I know there's a name for this learning technique, but it's slipping my mind at the moment.

As for the more emotional component, i agree with what's already been said about focusing on simpler techniques when you are working on developing that part of your practice. I have found the gamey-type classes from LiefBound and Icaraus to be especially helpful, but I have also taken some great classes and community skillshares in person at conventions that focused a lot on connective rope, handling the lines for certain emotions, and other such things, so sometimes just jumping at any educational experience you have accessible to you is very helpful.