Barriers

I am short and had a hard time getting over some of the taller barriers last year. Do you think plyometric training would help with that?

yes. increasing your vertical will definitely help. here's another tip I learned from John Elgart (multiple national champion).

instead of jumping "over" the barrier, step onto it and then over.

Lorri

Do people ever slip doing the step-on technique? I've never tried it because slipping could be a disaster.

For me (also very short) I didn't really jump over the barriers until I saw people do it. That gave me the confidence to try. Now I have my own barrier and am excited to practice with it!

I suppose you could slip. Then again, you could slip trying to jump it and end up with a nice scar on your shin like I've got.

My other barrier advice is to practice running (not walking). Speed will help you with your momentum. If you have a barrier you can use (I've got a portable PVC one), practice on flats, uphills, and downhills. Practice with your bike. Practice when you're tired. Practice, practice, practice.