Training - Infantryman Individual Movement Techniques (IMT)

Describe from lowest to most upright.

• Low Crawl
• Back Crawl
• Sniper Crawl
• High Crawl
• Monkey Crawl
• Rush
• Prone Method 1: Controlled Drop to Prone (Standard Military Method)
• Prone Method 2: Dive to Prone (Emergency or Combat Rush)
• Prone Method 3: Kneel-to-Prone Transition (Stealth or Controlled)
• Prone Method 4: Roll to Prone (Dynamic or Evasive)

Low Crawl

This movement technique provides the highest level of security, while being the most taxing/physically exerting. It is used to move stealthily under low cover, such as tall grass, barbed wire, or enemy observation, while minimizing exposure to detection or fire.

It is a slow, deliberate movement that keeps the body as close to the ground as possible to avoid detection and maintain concealment.

The Low Crawl is selected when:

• The route provides cover or concealment less than one foot high
• Visibility provides the enemy good observation
• Speed is not required

Starting Position

• Lie flat on your stomach (prone position) with your legs extended and arms bent at the elbows, close to your body.
• Keep your weapon (e.g., rifle) cradled in your arms or along your side to prevent it from catching on obstacles or making noise. Ensure the muzzle is clear of the ground to avoid dirt or debris.
• Face the direction of movement, keeping your head low to avoid silhouetting.

Movement Technique

• Use Arms and Legs: Move one arm and the opposite leg forward simultaneously. For example, push with your right arm and left leg, then alternate with your left arm and right leg.
• Stay Low: Keep your body, including your head and hips, as close to the ground as possible. Avoid raising your torso or legs, as this increases your profile.
• Pull and Push: Use your forearms and elbows to pull your body forward while your knees or toes push gently against the ground for traction. Move in small, controlled increments to maintain stealth.
• Head Position: Keep your head down, just high enough to observe your path and avoid obstacles. Use peripheral vision to scan for threats or cover.

Weapon Handling

• If carrying a rifle, keep it parallel to your body, resting in the crook of your arms or dragged alongside, ensuring it doesn’t snag or make noise.
• Maintain control of your weapon to be ready for immediate use if needed.

Terrain Awareness

• Move along natural depressions, ditches, or folds in the terrain to maximize cover and concealment.
• Avoid disturbing vegetation or making noise that could reveal your position.

Breathing and Pace

• Breathe slowly and quietly to avoid detection.
• Move deliberately to conserve energy, as the low crawl is physically demanding over long distances.

Completion

Continue crawling until you reach your objective or a position where you can transition to another movement technique (e.g., high crawl or rushing) or take cover.

Key Tips

• Minimize Silhouette: Keep your body flat to avoid being spotted.
• Control Noise: Avoid snapping twigs, rustling leaves, or clanking equipment.
• Stay Alert: Constantly scan for enemy positions or obstacles while moving.
• Practice Efficiency: Use smooth, controlled movements to avoid fatigue.

Synonyms for Low Crawl

In military contexts, the low crawl may be referred to by different terms depending on the branch, training doctrine, or specific use case. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Belly crawling: Emphasizes keeping the belly close to the ground.
• Inch-along crawl: Highlights the slow, incremental movement.
• Prone crawl: Refers to the prone position used during the movement.
• Stealth crawl: Focuses on the covert nature of the technique.
• Snakelike movement: Descriptive term for the slithering motion resembling a snake.
• Ground hug crawl: Emphasizes staying as low as possible to the ground.
• Infantry crawl: A general term sometimes used to describe low-profile movement techniques.
• Scout crawl: Used in reconnaissance contexts where stealth is critical.

These terms may vary slightly by military branch or country, but they generally describe a similar technique focused on low-profile, stealthy movement under cover or enemy observation.

Back Crawl

In an infantryman context, the back crawl is an individual movement technique used to move under low obstacles, such as barbed wire, fences, or other entanglements, while maintaining a low profile to avoid detection or enemy fire.

This technique involves moving on your back, face-up, to navigate under tight spaces where other crawls (e.g., low crawl or high crawl) are impractical due to limited vertical clearance.

It prioritizes stealth, control, and the ability to pass under obstacles without getting caught.

Starting Position

• Lie on your back with your head oriented toward the direction of movement and your legs extended in the opposite direction.
• Keep your weapon (e.g., rifle) secured across your chest, cradled in your arms, or placed alongside your body to prevent it from snagging on the wire or fence. Ensure the muzzle is clear of dirt or debris.
• Position your body as flat as possible, with arms close to your sides or bent to assist in movement, ready to navigate under the obstacle.

Movement Technique

• Use Arms and Legs: Propel yourself backward by pushing with your heels or feet and pulling with your arms or elbows. Dig your heels into the ground and flex your knees slightly to gain traction, while using your hands or elbows to assist in pulling your body along.
• Stay Flat: Keep your body, especially your head, chest, and hips, as close to the ground as possible to avoid snagging on wire or obstacles. Arch your back slightly if needed to clear low barriers.
• Controlled Motion: Move slowly and deliberately to avoid disturbing the wire or fence, which could create noise or alert the enemy. Use small, smooth movements to slide backward.
• Head Position: Tilt your head slightly forward or to the side to observe the obstacle above (e.g., barbed wire) and ensure you’re clearing it. Use peripheral vision to watch for snags or hazards.

Weapon Handling

• Secure your rifle tightly against your chest with both hands or place it parallel to your body to avoid it catching on wires or obstacles.
• If the weapon is equipped with optics or attachments, ensure they are protected from damage and positioned to avoid snagging.
• Be ready to quickly reposition the weapon for use once clear of the obstacle.

Terrain and Obstacle Awareness

• Assess the obstacle (e.g., barbed wire or fence) before starting to identify the lowest points or gaps to crawl under.
• Move along natural depressions or pre-cleared paths under the wire to maximize clearance and minimize snagging.
• Gently push aside loose wire or debris with your hands, if necessary, to create a clear path, taking care not to make noise or disturb the obstacle visibly.
• Avoid sudden movements that could cause the wire or fence to shake or alert the enemy.

Breathing and Pace

• Breathe slowly and quietly to maintain stealth and avoid detection by sound.
• Move at a steady, controlled pace to navigate the obstacle without rushing, as haste could lead to snagging or noise.
• Pause briefly as needed to check for clearance, listen for threats, or adjust your position under the obstacle.

Completion

• Continue the back crawl until you have fully cleared the wire or fence and reached a position of cover or concealment.
• Once clear, carefully roll to a prone position, crouch, or transition to another movement technique (e.g., low crawl or rush) as needed for the tactical situation.
• Check your weapon and gear to ensure nothing was damaged or caught during the crawl, then assess the environment for further movement or action.

Key Tips

• Minimize Profile: Keep your body as flat as possible to avoid snagging on wires or obstacles.
• Stealth and Silence: Move slowly and avoid disturbing the wire or fence to maintain noise discipline and prevent detection.
• Gear Management: Secure loose gear (e.g., backpacks, pouches) to prevent it from catching on obstacles.
• Obstacle Awareness: Constantly monitor the wire or fence above to ensure you’re clearing it and to avoid entanglement.
• Physical Control: Use controlled movements to conserve energy and maintain balance while navigating tight spaces.

Synonyms for Back Crawl

The back crawl is a specialized technique, often used in specific scenarios like navigating barbed wire or low obstacles, and may be referred to by different terms depending on military branch, training doctrine, or context. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Wire crawl: Emphasizes the technique’s use for navigating under barbed wire or similar obstacles.
• Reverse crawl: Highlights the backward movement on the back.
• Supine crawl: Refers to the face-up (supine) position used during the movement.
• Fence crawl: Describes its application for moving under fences or low barriers.
• Under-obstacle crawl: A general term for crawling under low obstacles like wire or netting.
• Back scoot: Suggests the scooting motion used to move backward on the back.
• Low-back crawl: Indicates the low-profile nature of the movement under tight spaces.
• Barbed wire slide: Focuses on sliding under barbed wire specifically.

These terms may vary by military branch (e.g., U.S. Army, Marine Corps) or operational context, but they generally describe a backward, face-up movement technique used to navigate under low obstacles like barbed wire or fences while maintaining stealth and a low profile.

Sniper Crawl

In an infantryman context, the sniper crawl (also sometimes referred to as the kitten crawl) is an advanced individual movement technique used primarily by snipers or reconnaissance personnel to move with extreme stealth across open or exposed terrain while remaining nearly undetectable.

It is slower and more deliberate than the low crawl, emphasizing minimal disturbance of the environment and maximum concealment to avoid enemy observation or detection.

Starting Position

• Lie flat on your stomach (prone position) with legs extended and arms bent at the elbows, close to your body.
• Keep your weapon (e.g., sniper rifle) cradled carefully in your arms, parallel to your body, or dragged alongside to avoid snagging or making noise. Ensure the muzzle and optics are clear of dirt or debris.
• Position your head low, just enough to observe the terrain ahead, minimizing your silhouette.

Movement Technique

• Incremental Movement: Move one limb at a time in a slow, controlled manner. For example, advance your right arm slightly, then your left leg, followed by your left arm and right leg, in a deliberate sequence.
• Stay Flat: Keep your entire body, including hips, head, and legs, as close to the ground as possible. Avoid any upward movement that could increase your profile or disturb vegetation.
• Hand and Knee Pressure: Use your fingers, palms, or forearms to gently probe the ground ahead for obstacles (e.g., twigs, rocks) before moving. Push lightly with your knees or toes for forward momentum.
• Smooth Motion: Move in a fluid, almost gliding manner, mimicking a “kitten” or “snake” to avoid sudden movements that could draw attention.

Weapon Handling

• Keep your rifle close to your body, often cradled in your arms or dragged alongside with the sling secured to prevent noise or snagging.
• Ensure the weapon is positioned for quick access if needed, but prioritize keeping it low and out of sight.
• Protect optics or attachments (e.g., suppressors) from dirt or damage.

Terrain and Environment Awareness

• Choose a route that maximizes natural cover, such as depressions, shadows, or tall grass, to blend into the terrain.
• Gently push aside vegetation or debris with your hands to avoid rustling or snapping, then carefully replace it behind you to conceal your path.
• Move during low-visibility conditions (e.g., dawn, dusk, or under cover of darkness) if possible to enhance stealth.

Breathing and Pace

• Breathe slowly and silently to avoid detection by sound or movement.
• Move at an extremely slow pace, sometimes taking minutes to cover just a few meters, to ensure no sudden motions betray your position.
• Pause frequently to observe and listen for enemy activity or changes in the environment.

Camouflage and Concealment

• Ensure your ghillie suit (if used) or camouflage blends seamlessly with the terrain. Adjust natural materials (e.g., grass, leaves) on your suit as you move to match the surroundings.
• Avoid creating a trail by minimizing ground disturbance or using your hands to smooth out any marks left behind.

Completion

• Continue the sniper crawl until you reach your objective (e.g., a hide site or observation point) or a position where you can transition to another movement technique or set up.
• Once in position, remain still and concealed, preparing for observation or engagement without breaking cover.

Key Tips

• Extreme Stealth: The sniper crawl prioritizes invisibility over speed, requiring patience and discipline.
• Environmental Blend: Constantly adjust to the terrain, using natural cover and avoiding any disturbance that could reveal your presence.
• Noise Discipline: Every movement must be silent; avoid equipment clanking or rustling vegetation.
• Situational Awareness: Continuously scan for threats, using minimal head movement to avoid detection.
• Physical Endurance: The slow, deliberate pace is physically and mentally taxing, so maintain focus and conserve energy.

Synonyms for Sniper Crawl (or Kitten Crawl)

The sniper crawl or kitten crawl is a specialized technique, so synonyms are often context-specific or descriptive of its stealthy nature. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Stalk crawl: Emphasizes the stalking aspect used by snipers to approach a target undetected.
• Ghost crawl: Highlights the near-invisible movement, as if moving like a ghost.
• Silent crawl: Focuses on the noiseless aspect of the technique.
• Stealth glide: Describes the smooth, flowing motion resembling a glide.
• Recon crawl: Used in reconnaissance contexts where stealth is paramount.
• Cat crawl: A variant of “kitten crawl,” emphasizing the soft, delicate movement like a cat.
• Shadow crawl: Suggests moving in a way that blends with shadows or low visibility.
• Sniper inch: Highlights the slow, inch-by-inch progression of the movement.

These terms may vary slightly depending on military branch, training doctrine (e.g., U.S. Army, Marine Corps, or special forces), or operational context, but they generally describe a highly stealthy, prone movement technique designed for covert operations or sniper missions.

High Crawl

In an infantryman context, the high crawl is an individual movement technique used to move quickly and quietly across terrain while maintaining a low profile to minimize exposure to enemy observation or fire.

It is faster than the low crawl or sniper crawl, allowing for more rapid movement under cover that is slightly higher, such as low vegetation, walls, or shallow ditches, while still prioritizing concealment.

The High Crawl is selected when:

• The route provides cover and concealment
• Poor visibility reduces enemy observation
• Speed is required

Starting Position

• Begin in a prone position (on your stomach) with your legs extended and arms bent at the elbows.
• Keep your weapon (e.g., rifle) cradled in your arms or held close to your body, ensuring the muzzle is clear of the ground to avoid dirt or debris.
• Raise your torso slightly, resting your weight on your forearms and knees, keeping your head low to reduce your silhouette.

Movement Technique

• Use Forearms and Knees: Move forward by alternating your forearms and knees. For example, advance your right forearm and left knee, then your left forearm and right knee, in a coordinated sequence.
• Stay Low but Elevated: Keep your body low to the ground but slightly elevated compared to the low crawl, using your forearms and knees to support your weight. Your torso should hover just above the ground, avoiding dragging your body.
• Smooth Motion: Move in a controlled, fluid manner to maintain balance and avoid sudden movements that could draw attention.
• Head Position: Keep your head low but high enough to observe the terrain ahead and scan for threats or obstacles.

Weapon Handling

• Hold your rifle close to your body, typically cradled in your arms or with one hand gripping it to keep it secure and ready for use.
• Ensure the weapon doesn’t snag on the ground or vegetation and that it remains functional (e.g., no dirt in the muzzle).
• Position the rifle for quick access if you need to engage a target or transition to another movement.

Terrain Awareness

• Choose a route that provides cover, such as low vegetation, shallow depressions, or man-made structures, to stay concealed from enemy observation.
• Avoid areas with loose debris or noisy surfaces (e.g., dry leaves, gravel) that could reveal your position.
• Use natural folds in the terrain to mask your movement.

Breathing and Pace

• Breathe steadily and quietly to maintain stamina and avoid detection by sound.
• Move at a moderate pace, faster than a low crawl but slower than rushing, to balance speed and stealth.
• Pause periodically to observe the environment, listen for threats, or reassess your route.

Completion

• Continue the high crawl until you reach your objective, such as a covered position, or until you can safely transition to another movement technique (e.g., rushing or low crawl).
• Upon reaching your destination, lower yourself into a prone position or take cover to assess the situation.

Key Tips

• Balance Speed and Stealth: The high crawl is faster than a low crawl but requires maintaining a low profile to avoid detection.
• Minimize Silhouette: Keep your body as low as the terrain allows to reduce visibility.
• Noise Discipline: Move smoothly to avoid rustling vegetation or clanking equipment.
• Terrain Advantage: Use available cover and concealment to mask your movement.
• Physical Efficiency: Distribute your weight evenly between forearms and knees to avoid fatigue during extended movement.

Synonyms for High Crawl

The high crawl is a widely recognized military movement technique, but it may be referred to by different terms depending on the branch, training doctrine, or context. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Knee crawl: Emphasizes the use of knees for support during movement.
• Elevated crawl: Highlights the slightly raised posture compared to a low crawl.
• Combat crawl: Suggests its use in combat situations requiring speed and concealment.
• Tactical crawl: Focuses on the tactical application of the movement for stealth and maneuverability.
• Mid-level crawl: Describes the intermediate height between a low crawl and upright movement.
• Soldier’s crawl: A general term sometimes used to describe the technique in infantry training.
• Cover crawl: Refers to its use under low cover or concealment.
• Skirmish crawl: Suggests its application in small-unit skirmishes or engagements.

These terms may vary slightly by military branch (e.g., U.S. Army, Marine Corps) or operational context, but they generally describe a movement technique that balances speed, stealth, and a low profile for advancing under moderate cover in combat situations.

Monkey Crawl

In an infantryman context, the monkey crawl is an individual movement technique used to move rapidly across terrain with very low cover, such as shallow ditches, low walls, or sparse vegetation, while maintaining a low profile to avoid enemy observation or fire.

It is faster than the low crawl or sniper crawl but lower and more controlled than the high crawl, resembling a scooting or scooting motion akin to a monkey’s movement. The technique prioritizes speed and mobility while staying below the line of sight.

Starting Position

• Begin in a semi-prone position, with your body slightly elevated, resting on your forearms and knees or shins, similar to the high crawl but lower.
• Keep your weapon (e.g., rifle) cradled in your arms, held close to your body, or dragged alongside to prevent snagging or noise. Ensure the muzzle stays clear of dirt or debris.
• Position your head low, just high enough to observe the terrain ahead, minimizing your silhouette.

Movement Technique

• Use Forearms and Knees/Shins: Propel yourself forward by scooting on your forearms and knees or shins, alternating sides in a rapid, coordinated motion. For example, move your right forearm and left knee forward, then your left forearm and right knee.
• Low but Mobile Posture: Keep your torso and hips low, just above the ground, but allow slightly more elevation than a low crawl to enable faster movement. Your body should “scoot” or “slide” forward in a monkey-like fashion.
• Smooth and Quick: Move in a fluid, continuous motion to maintain momentum, avoiding jerky movements that could draw attention or disrupt balance.
• Head Position: Keep your head low but angled slightly forward to scan for obstacles or threats while maintaining a minimal profile.

Weapon Handling

• Hold your rifle close to your body, typically cradled in your arms or secured with one hand to keep it ready for use and prevent it from catching on the ground or vegetation.
• Ensure the weapon remains functional, with no dirt in the muzzle or optics, and is positioned for quick access if needed.
• Adjust the rifle’s position to avoid noise or snagging during rapid movement.

Terrain Awareness

• Select a route with low cover, such as shallow depressions, low grass, or small obstacles, to stay concealed while moving quickly.
• Avoid noisy surfaces like dry leaves or gravel that could reveal your position.
• Use terrain features like folds or dips to mask your movement and maintain cover.

Breathing and Pace

• Breathe steadily to sustain energy during rapid movement, keeping breaths as quiet as possible to avoid detection.
• Move at a brisk pace, faster than a high crawl, but remain controlled to avoid raising your profile or making excessive noise.
• Pause briefly as needed to assess the environment, check for threats, or adjust your route.

Completion

• Continue the monkey crawl until you reach your objective, such as a covered position, or until you can transition to another movement technique (e.g., rushing, high crawl, or low crawl).
• Upon reaching your destination, lower yourself into a prone position or take cover to evaluate the situation and prepare for further action.

Key Tips

• Speed with Stealth: The monkey crawl emphasizes rapid movement while staying low, balancing speed with the need to avoid detection.
• Minimize Profile: Keep your body as low as the terrain allows to reduce visibility, even during quicker movements.
• Noise Control: Move smoothly to avoid rustling vegetation or clanking gear, maintaining operational security.
• Terrain Advantage: Exploit low cover or natural terrain features to stay concealed while moving efficiently.
• Physical Efficiency: Distribute weight between forearms and knees/shins to maintain stamina and avoid exhaustion.

Synonyms for Monkey Crawl

The monkey crawl is a less standardized term in military doctrine compared to the low or high crawl, and its use may vary by training context, branch, or informal terminology. It is often described by its characteristic scooting or rapid low movement. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Scoot crawl: Emphasizes the scooting motion used to move quickly while low.
• Low scoot: Highlights the low-profile, rapid sliding movement.
• Skitter crawl: Suggests a quick, skittering motion like an animal.
• Rapid low crawl: Describes the faster pace compared to a standard low crawl.
• Shimmy crawl: Refers to the side-to-side or scooting motion resembling a shimmy.
• Ground scoot: Focuses on the ground-hugging, rapid movement.
• Tactical scoot: Indicates its use in tactical situations requiring speed and concealment.
• Low hustle crawl: Suggests a hurried but low-profile movement.

These terms may vary by military branch (e.g., U.S. Army, Marine Corps), training school, or operational context, but they generally describe a fast, low-profile movement technique used to cover ground quickly under minimal cover while maintaining a degree of stealth.

Note that “monkey crawl” is not as universally standardized as other crawls, and its usage may be more colloquial or specific to certain training environments.

Rush

In an infantryman context, the bounding rush is a movement technique used to rapidly advance across open or exposed terrain under enemy observation or fire, minimizing the time spent vulnerable while moving from one covered or concealed position to another.

Unlike crawling techniques, the rush involves short, explosive bursts of movement, typically in a low posture, to cover ground quickly while reducing exposure to threats.

The Rush is selcted when:

• There is no cover or concealment along your route
• Enemy fire allows brief exposure

Starting Position

• Begin in a covered or concealed position, such as behind a tree, rock, ditch, or other obstacle, in a prone, kneeling, or crouching position.
• Hold your weapon (e.g., rifle) securely with both hands, ready for immediate use, with the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and clear of obstructions.
• Assess the terrain ahead, identifying your next covered or concealed position (e.g., another obstacle or terrain feature) within a short distance (typically 3-5 seconds of movement).

Movement Technique

• Plan the Rush: Before moving, select a specific destination (e.g., a bush, ditch, or wall) that offers cover or concealment. Ensure the distance can be covered in a brief burst (3-5 seconds).
• Initiate Movement: From your starting position (prone, kneeling, or crouching), push off explosively with your legs to begin the rush.
• Stay Low: Run in a crouched or semi-crouched posture to reduce your silhouette, keeping your head and torso low while maintaining balance.
• Move Quickly: Sprint as fast as possible to the next position, covering the ground in a short, controlled burst to minimize exposure time.
• Zigzag (Optional): If under direct fire, incorporate slight lateral movements or a zigzag pattern to make yourself a harder target.

Weapon Handling

• Keep your rifle at the ready (e.g., low-ready or high-ready position) to engage threats if necessary during or after the rush.
• Ensure the weapon is secure to avoid dropping it or letting it snag on gear or terrain.
• Maintain muzzle awareness to prevent flagging friendly forces or pointing the weapon unsafely.

Terrain Awareness

• Choose a route that minimizes exposure, using available terrain features like depressions, folds, or low cover to mask part of your movement.
• Avoid open areas with no cover or concealment for extended distances.
• Be aware of obstacles (e.g., rocks, roots, or uneven ground) to prevent tripping or falling during the rush.

Breathing and Pace

• Take a deep breath before starting to maintain focus and control during the sprint.
• Move in short, deliberate bursts (3-5 seconds) to avoid prolonged exposure, then drop immediately into cover at your destination. Verbally call out "I'm up, he sees me, I'm down" if needed to help your timing.
• Pause in the new position to assess the situation, catch your breath, and prepare for the next rush or action.

Completion

• Upon reaching the new position, drop quickly into a prone or crouched posture behind cover or concealment.
• Scan for threats, check your weapon, and assess whether to prepare for another rush, engage the enemy, or hold the position.
• Communicate with your team (if applicable) to coordinate further movement or actions.

Key Tips

• Minimize Exposure: Keep rushes short (3-5 seconds) to reduce the time you’re visible to the enemy.
• Use Cover Effectively: Always move from one covered or concealed position to another, never stopping in the open.
• Maintain Awareness: Stay alert for enemy positions, obstacles, or changes in the tactical situation during and after the rush.
• Control Movement: Avoid reckless sprinting that could cause you to lose balance or overshoot your cover.
• Team Coordination: In a team context, ensure rushes are staggered so others can provide covering fire or observation.

Synonyms for Rush

The rush is a standard military movement technique, but it may be referred to by different terms depending on the branch, doctrine, or context. Common synonyms or related terms include:

• Bounding rush: Emphasizes the bounding movement from one position to another.
• Dash: Highlights the quick, short sprint to cover.
• Sprint to cover: Describes the rapid movement to a covered position.
• Tactical rush: Focuses on its use in tactical scenarios under fire.
• Fire-and-movement rush: Suggests its role in fire-and-movement tactics, often paired with suppressive fire.
• Cover-to-cover dash: Refers to moving between covered positions.
• Assault rush: Indicates its use in offensive operations to close with the enemy.
• Bounding sprint: Emphasizes the explosive, short-distance nature of the movement.

These terms may vary slightly by military branch (e.g., U.S. Army, Marine Corps) or operational context, but they generally describe a rapid, low-posture movement technique used to advance under potential enemy observation or fire while minimizing exposure.

Prone Method 1: Controlled Drop to Prone (Standard Military Method)

In an infantryman context, transitioning from a standing position to a prone position with a rifle is a critical skill used to quickly take cover, reduce your silhouette, or prepare to engage a target from a stable firing platform. The goal is to move efficiently, maintain control of your weapon, and minimize exposure to potential threats.

Below are different methods for going prone from a standing position while carrying a rifle, ensuring safety, speed, and readiness.

Starting Position

• Stand with your rifle in a ready position (e.g., low-ready or high-ready), held with both hands, muzzle pointed safely downrange or at the ground.
• Feet are shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent for balance.

Execution

• Step Forward (Optional): Take a short step forward with your dominant foot to initiate movement and maintain balance.
• Lower Your Body: Bend at the knees and waist, dropping into a squat while keeping your rifle secure in both hands, muzzle pointed forward or downward.
• Kneel: Lower one knee (typically the non-dominant knee) to the ground, placing it gently to avoid injury or noise. Keep your rifle close to your chest or angled slightly forward.
• Extend to Prone: Lean forward, placing your free hand (or both hands, if possible) on the ground to control your descent. Extend your body forward, lowering your chest and hips to the ground while keeping your legs extended behind you.
• Position Rifle: As you go prone, bring the rifle to a firing position (e.g., resting on the ground or cradled in your arms) or keep it alongside your body, ensuring the muzzle is clear of dirt.

Completion

• Lie flat on your stomach, legs extended, and head low to minimize your silhouette.
• Adjust your rifle to a ready position for firing or observation, ensuring it’s stable and accessible.
• Scan for threats and prepare for further action (e.g., firing, crawling, or holding position).

Key Tips

• Use your knees and hands to cushion the descent and avoid slamming into the ground.
• Keep the rifle close to your body to prevent it from swinging or hitting the ground.
• Practice smooth transitions to maintain control and reduce noise.

Prone Method 2: Dive to Prone (Emergency or Combat Rush)

This method is used in high-threat situations, such as under direct enemy fire, where speed is critical to avoid being hit. It involves a more dynamic and rapid drop to the ground.

Starting Position

• Stand with your rifle in a ready position (e.g., low-ready or high-ready), gripped firmly with both hands, muzzle pointed safely forward or downward.
• Be prepared to move explosively, with knees slightly bent and body oriented toward cover or the desired direction.

Execution

• Initiate Movement: If moving (e.g., during a rush), sprint toward a covered position or the ground ahead (3-5 seconds max).
• Dive Forward: Launch your body forward and downward, leading with your shoulder or chest, while keeping your rifle tucked against your body or extended slightly forward to avoid landing on it.
• Break the Fall: Use your free hand, forearms, or knees to absorb the impact as you hit the ground, rolling slightly onto your side or stomach to avoid injury.
• Slide into Prone: As you land, slide or roll into a fully prone position, keeping your body flat and legs extended.
• Position Rifle: Quickly adjust your rifle to a firing position (e.g., shouldered or resting on the ground) or keep it secure alongside your body, ensuring the muzzle is clear.

Completion

• Lie flat on your stomach, using cover (e.g., terrain, obstacles) to minimize exposure.
• Orient your rifle toward the threat or keep it ready for immediate use.
• Assess the situation, scan for targets, and prepare for further movement or engagement.

Key Tips

• Practice diving to avoid landing on your rifle, knees, or face, which could cause injury or damage.
• Keep your elbows bent and rifle close to prevent it from slamming into the ground.
• Use this method only when speed is critical, as it’s less controlled and riskier than other methods.

Prone Method 3: Kneel-to-Prone Transition (Stealth or Controlled)

This method is slower and more deliberate, used in situations where stealth or caution is needed, such as avoiding detection or navigating uneven terrain.

Starting Position

• Stand with your rifle in a low-ready position, held with both hands, muzzle pointed safely downward or forward.
• Maintain a balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.

Execution

• Drop to Knees: Lower yourself into a kneeling position by bending both knees, placing one or both knees on the ground gently to minimize noise.
• Lower Upper Body: Lean forward, placing your free hand or both hands (if possible) on the ground to control your descent. Keep the rifle secure in one hand or cradled against your chest.
• Ease into Prone: Gradually lower your torso and hips to the ground, extending your legs behind you to assume a prone position.
• Position Rifle: As you settle into prone, adjust the rifle to a firing position (e.g., resting on the ground or shouldered) or keep it alongside your body, ensuring the muzzle is clear of debris.

Completion

• Lie flat on your stomach, keeping your head low and body aligned with cover or concealment.
• Ensure your rifle is ready for use or secured to avoid snagging or noise.
• Scan the environment for threats and prepare for further action (e.g., observation, crawling, or firing).

Key Tips

• Move slowly to avoid making noise or disturbing vegetation, especially in stealth scenarios.
• Use your hands to check the ground for obstacles (e.g., rocks, roots) before lying down.
• Ideal for situations where you need to maintain situational awareness or avoid detection.

Prone Method 4: Roll to Prone (Dynamic or Evasive)

This method is used in dynamic situations where you need to evade fire or quickly change positions while maintaining some control. It involves rolling onto the ground to transition to prone.

Starting Position

• Stand with your rifle in a ready position, gripped firmly with both hands, muzzle pointed safely forward or downward.
• Be prepared to move laterally or forward, with knees slightly bent for balance.

Execution

• Initiate Movement: Take a step or two toward cover or in the direction of your intended prone position, if needed.
• Lower and Roll: Bend at the knees and waist, dropping toward the ground while tucking your rifle close to your chest. Roll onto your shoulder or side (preferably the non-dominant side) to break the fall and avoid landing directly on your weapon.
• Complete the Roll: Continue the roll until you’re on your stomach, extending your legs to assume a prone position.
• Position Rifle: As you settle into prone, bring the rifle to a firing position or keep it secure alongside your body, ensuring the muzzle is clear.

Completion

• Lie flat on your stomach, using available cover or concealment to reduce your silhouette.
• Adjust your rifle for immediate use or secure it to prepare for further movement.
• Scan for threats and assess the tactical situation.

Key Tips

• Practice rolling to avoid landing on your rifle or gear, which could cause damage or injury.
• Tuck your elbows and knees to maintain control during the roll.
• Use this method in dynamic scenarios where a straight drop might expose you too long.