text: Physical Readiness
  TASK 3: UNDERWATER SWIM
  7-43. The underwater swim measures Soldiers’ confidence and ability to enter the water, submerge to the
  bottom of the pool, successfully swim fifteen meters underwater with their equipment, surface, and exit the
  pool. They use the following steps:
  * AWST leaders select a location on the deep end of the pool where the water is a minimum of nine
  feet deep. The Soldier performs this task wearing ACUs, boots, IOTV, and M16 or M4 training
  aid slung over the back. Prior to entering the water, Soldiers should practice breaststroke
  mechanics while on the pool deck.
  * The Soldier slings weapon over the left shoulder, grasping the sling close to the sling clamp with
  the right hand at the chest and the weapon butt plate with the left hand. The Soldier pulls the
  weapon tight to the back. The Soldier stands with heels on the edge of the pool deck and back
  toward the water.
  * The Soldier performs a rear water entry by bending forward at the waist, transferring body weight
  to the heels, and falling rearward into the water while maintaining control of the slung weapon.
  The Soldier breaks the water with the rear of the thighs and buttocks. The Soldier submerges to
  the bottom of the pool and slowly exhales air through the mouth and nose.
  * The Soldier pushes off the bottom of the pool with both feet, bobs to the surface, and grasps the
  edge of the pool deck. Upon command of the AWST leader, the Soldier rotates facing the pool,
  takes a full breath, and drops under the surface of the water. Immediately pushes off the wall and
  begins the underwater swim with arm and leg movements used in the breaststroke.
  * The Soldier remembers to slowly exhale air through the mouth and nose while underwater
  swimming to the opposite side of the pool. Upon reaching the opposite pool wall, the Soldier
  surfaces and performs a pool exit.
  TASK 4: 3-METER DROP AND POOL EXIT
  7-44. The 3-meter drop with rifle and equipment measures a Soldier’s ability to enter the water, swim to the
  side of the pool, and exit with weapon and equipment.
  7-45. AWST leaders select a location on the side of the pool where the water is a minimum of nine feet deep.
  The Soldier performs this task wearing ACUs, boots, IOTV, and M16 or M4 training aid. A shepherd’s crook
  or safety line will be attached to Soldier and controlled by AWST leader or assistant instructor. If the Soldier
  shows signs of undue fear, stress, panic, or fatigue, the AWST leader or assistant instructor will use the safety
  line or crook to pull the Soldier from the water.
  7-46. The Soldier performs a stride entry by stepping off the 3-meter diving board or platform into the water
  with the trunk leaning forward, the head up, the legs spread in a stride position (one forward, the other back),
  and the arms extended overhead holding the M16 or M4 training aid. Immediately upon entry, the Soldier
  moves legs together and the arms vigorously downward slapping the water with the weapon. This technique
  keeps the head above water and allows the Soldier to maintain visibility.
  7-47. Upon entry into the water, the Soldier will stabilize buoyancy and simultaneously transfer weapon to
  the right side of the body grasping the sling close to the forward sling clamp with the right hand. The Soldier
  places the weapon near the lower sling clamp onto the right hip while rolling onto left side. The Soldier
  performs the sidestroke to the edge of the pool and exits.