"Crawling all fours" refers to a method of movement performed by humans or animals, where the body is supported by the hands and knees, with the abdomen raised off the ground. This type of crawling closely resembles the movement pattern in quadrupedal animals, such as dogs or cats.
In crawling all fours, each hand is placed directly in front of the corresponding knee, and each knee is then moved forward, maintaining a relatively low stance and a flexed posture. This movement is typically performed by infants during the early stages of their physical development, before they learn to walk upright.
Crawling all fours is considered an important milestone in a child's motor development, as it strengthens the muscles in the arms, legs, and core, helping to establish proper balance, coordination, and posture. It also helps to improve the integration of the brain and body movements. Additionally, crawling all fours is believed to enhance sensory stimulation, including tactile exploration and coordination between the hands and eyes.
As a figurative expression, "crawling all fours" can also be used to describe the act of moving in a submissive, servile, or desperate manner. It implies a person's vulnerability or powerlessness and is often associated with situations where one feels humiliated, degraded, or lacking control. This metaphorical usage of the term is commonly found in literature, poetry, and everyday language.
