We all know that the further weight is to windward the more effective it is. Hence helms endure extreme agony hiking out by their toe-nails all the way up the beat, and sliding seats and trapezes were invented to give crews a leisurely time. If your helm has a hangover you may also hear some grunts and the boat may heel a bit in the gusts. If the lamp posts were bending when rigging up, you know you ll be over powered the whole time, except when standing on the plate of course. If the sheet uncleats when in this position, sort it.
Back leg can be bent to angle body back, but probably only necessary if planing.
The very marginal increase in leverage being parallel to the water is not worth it - better to be a bit higher and have a good view of the racetrack. So what can you do to increase leverage. Stand on tiptoe. Put your arms behind your head, or straight out. You have a boat close to windward and leeward.