Locomotion Technique

A locomotion technique is a method for navigating or moving through a virtual environment in virtual reality (VR). Because physical space is limited and many users are seated, locomotion techniques simulate travel without requiring real-world walking. Common approaches include teleportation (point and jump), controller-based sliding, body-leaning acceleration, grab-and-pull gestures, and third-person avatar control. Accessibility is a significant concern because many techniques assume specific physical abilities — such as raising arms to chest level, leaning the torso, or performing repetitive arm movements — that people with upper-body motor impairments may not have. Research shows that controller button-based techniques tend to be most accessible, but users with disabilities also value choice, preferring different techniques based on personal trade-offs between accessibility, enjoyment, exercise, and sense of immersion.