Travelling across open spaces

These are useful techniques for walking across large and small open spaces. 

Squaring off

This technique is useful when you want to walk across a large open space. ‘Squaring off’ is when you position or align your body with a specific object in the space, and then use that starting point to walk forwards in a straight line.

The following checklist is a guide to using this technique.

• Place your back against a solid surface making sure your heels, bottom, back and shoulders are all placed against the surface. Avoid squaring off against a door, as this may be opened whilst you are against it.
• Ideally, use either upper or lower body protection while you walk across the open space.
• At times you may need to align the side of your body or the back of your legs with an object before walking across the open space. 

Taking a line

The ‘taking a line’ technique is used when you reach an open space, while trailing, such as a doorway. 

The following checklist is a guide to the ‘taking a line’ technique and used in conjunction with trailing.

• When your trailing hand reaches an opening, stop and move your hand back onto the surface you were trailing.
• Gently bring your trailing arm forward and as you walk forward extend the palm of your hand to locate the opposite surface.