When descending a pole, longer steps are better than shorter steps.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not Specified
• D. Sometimes

Answer: (A)

When descending a pole, using longer steps lets your legs drive most of the movement, which makes the descent more efficient and safer. Each longer step covers more vertical distance, so you spend less time re-gripping and repositioning your hands, reducing fatigue and the chance of slipping. Keeping your hips close to the pole and moving with controlled, smooth steps helps maintain balance and a stable center of gravity, making speed controllable rather than reactive. Shorter steps force more frequent hand transfers and more adjustments, increasing the opportunity to lose contact or misalign. So, in typical pole descent, longer steps promote continuous contact, better control, and quicker, safer progress.