GUERRILLA DRILL, EXERCISE 1: SHOULDER ROLL
Purpose: This exercise develops the Soldier’s ability to safely fall and roll-up to a standing position (Figure 9-46).
Starting Position: Straddle stance.
Movement: Step forward with the left foot, squat down, and make a wheel with the arms by placing the left hand on the ground with the fingers facing to the rear; the right hand is also on the ground with the fingers facing forward. Tuck the chin to avoid injury to the neck. Push off with the right leg and roll over the left shoulder along the left side of the body. To roll to the opposite side, step forward and switch hand and leg positions. Progress to continuously walking and alternating rolling on opposite sides.
Check Points:
- Lead with the left foot when rolling on the left shoulder and the right foot when rolling on the right shoulder.
- Hands are placed on the ground, facing each other with the middle fingertips of each hand touching at the tips so the arms form a wheel.
- Rotate the upper body so the lead elbow is pointing straight to the front while maintaining a wheel with the arms.
- Tuck the chin so ground contact is made with the arms, shoulder blades, and back, but not with the neck.
- The momentum of the roll brings Soldiers up to their knees. Continue to the feet by pushing off with the rear leg while standing up on the front leg.
Precautions: The PRT leader and an AI(s) must ensure that Soldiers are in the proper squatting position for the roll by ensuring that their hands are on the ground and their chins are tucked before rolling.