crouch

A crouch is a low, compact posture produced by bending the knees and hips while lowering the torso toward the ground. Typically the weight rests on the balls of the feet and the feet are set about shoulder-width apart. The body's center of gravity shifts downward, increasing stability and reducing profile, which can aid concealment, movement in tight spaces, or readiness for quick action.

Degrees of crouching vary. A partial crouch lowers the body only partway, while a full crouch brings the hips close to the ankles and the thighs near parallel to the floor. Crouching is distinct from kneeling, where one or both knees rest on the ground; and from stooping, which primarily involves bending at the waist with the legs relatively straight.

Common uses include sports and physical activity. Sprinters adopt a crouched starting position; catchers in baseball and players in other positions use a crouch to stay low and ready. Goalkeepers often crouch to react quickly to shots. In martial arts and stage performances, crouch stances reduce exposure or help concealment and readiness. People also crouch in daily life to pick up objects, inspect items at ground level, or pass under obstacles. In video games, crouching is a functional mechanic that lowers a character's profile and can affect movement speed and aim.

Health and safety: long or repeated crouching can place strain on knees and hips; gradual progression and proper warm-up are advised, especially for people with joint problems.