Marine Corps Martial Arts Tan Belt - Forward Shoulder Roll

This section focuses on tan belt techniques used by the Marine Corps martial arts program. This page examines the forward shoulder roll used in the Marine Corps martial arts program. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).

For more Marine Corps techniques, please visit the main Marine Corps Martial Arts Program section.

Forward Shoulder Roll

The purpose of the forward shoulder roll is to break a fall from an aggressor’s attack and use the momentum to get back on your feet quickly.

Technique

The forward shoulder roll will be practiced in stages, from the kneeling position, and from the standing position.

From the Kneeling Position

~ Place your right knee on the deck and your left leg bent with the foot flat on the deck.
~ Extend your left arm down through your legs, tucking your chin into your chest. Lower your head and shoulders to the deck.
~ Push off with your feet to roll over your left shoulder to your right hip executing the proper finishing position for a right side break-fall.
~ With your right leg straight, slap the deck to absorb as much of the impact as possible. Your left leg is bent and the foot hits flat on the deck.

From the Standing Position

~ Place your feet shoulder-width apart with your left foot forward.
~ Extend your left arm down through your legs, tucking your chin into your chest. Lower your head and shoulders to the deck, but look skyward.
~ Push off with your feet to roll from your left shoulder to your right hip and buttock, allowing your forward momentum to bring you back to your feet (DO NOT DIVE).
~ Rapidly return to the basic warrior stance.

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References

1. Information from Public Domain Document, MCRP 3-02B, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), http://www.marines.mil/News/Publications/ELECTRONICLIBRARY.aspx, Added - 02/18/15