Military Standards
Parade Rest Practice Tips

Practice TipsParade Rest

Practical exercises and techniques to master the formal relaxed military stance.

Essential Practice Areas

Focus on these key areas to improve your Parade Rest

Daily Practice Routine

  • Practice transition from Attention to Parade Rest
  • Hold position for 10-15 minutes daily
  • Focus on smooth, controlled movements
  • Practice in front of mirror for form check
  • Work on maintaining position during distractions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't place feet too wide or too narrow
  • Avoid gripping wrist too tightly
  • Don't let shoulders slump forward
  • Prevent swaying or shifting weight
  • Don't look around or lose focus

Improvement Techniques

  • Measure 12-inch foot spacing with ruler
  • Practice hand placement without looking
  • Work on maintaining alertness while relaxed
  • Practice during various weather conditions
  • Focus on breathing naturally while in position

Practice Exercises

Structured exercises to improve your Parade Rest

Transition Practice

5-10 minutes

Smooth movement from Position of Attention to Parade Rest

Steps:

  1. 1
    Start in Position of Attention
  2. 2
    On command, move left foot 12 inches to left
  3. 3
    Simultaneously place left hand at small of back
  4. 4
    Grasp left wrist with right hand
  5. 5
    Practice reverse movement back to Attention

Foot Spacing Drill

3-5 minutes

Develop muscle memory for proper foot positioning

Steps:

  1. 1
    Use tape or markers to mark 12-inch spacing
  2. 2
    Practice stepping to correct position
  3. 3
    Check that feet are parallel
  4. 4
    Ensure weight is evenly distributed
  5. 5
    Remove markers and practice without guides

Hand Position Training

5 minutes

Perfect the arm and hand placement

Steps:

  1. 1
    Practice placing left hand at small of back
  2. 2
    Find comfortable wrist grip with right hand
  3. 3
    Ensure arms are relaxed, not rigid
  4. 4
    Check that elbows are slightly away from body
  5. 5
    Practice without looking at hands

Endurance Building

15-20 minutes

Build stamina for extended ceremonies

Steps:

  1. 1
    Start with 5-minute holds
  2. 2
    Gradually increase to 15+ minutes
  3. 3
    Practice during different times of day
  4. 4
    Maintain position during conversations
  5. 5
    Focus on staying alert and engaged

Quick Practice Tips

Simple reminders to keep in mind during practice

Mental Reminders

Keep these tips in mind during your practice sessions

Think 'comfortable but military' - relaxed yet disciplined

Keep your feet parallel, not angled outward

Don't squeeze your wrist - gentle but secure grip

Maintain the same alertness as Position of Attention

Practice the transition until it becomes automatic

Keep your shoulders back and chest out naturally

Breathe normally - don't hold your breath

Stay engaged with your surroundings

Track Your Progress

Monitor your improvement with these milestones

Progress Milestones

Week 1

Master smooth transition from Attention to Parade Rest

Week 2

Maintain proper foot spacing and hand position consistently

Week 3

Hold position comfortably for 10+ minutes

Week 4

Demonstrate position with confidence during formations

Week 5+

Maintain position for extended ceremonies without fatigue

Start Practicing Today

Apply these tips and exercises to master Parade Rest