What should the height of an anchor point ideally be for rappelling?

The ideal height of an anchor point for rappelling is commonly recommended to be higher than 3 feet above the waist. This height helps to ensure that the rappeller is able to maintain a proper body position during descent, facilitating effective control and minimizing the risk of swinging or falling hazards. An anchor point that is positioned at this height allows the harness to function optimally, providing adequate clearance for the rappelling process.

Having an anchor point that is too low can compromise the rappeller's body position and lead to uncontrolled descent or potential encounters with obstacles. Furthermore, setting the anchor sufficiently high helps to distribute the forces exerted during the rappel more effectively across the system, contributing to safer operations.

In summary, an anchor height that exceeds 3 feet above the waist is critical for ensuring proper technique and safety during rappelling.