What is the proper position of the hands during Parade Rest?

• A. Hands folded in front
• B. Hands clasped behind the back with thumbs interlaced.
• C. Hands on hips
• D. Hands at sides

Answer: (B)

Parade Rest is a ceremonial stance used when you’re not in the immediate command sequence but still in formation. The hands belong behind the back to keep movements quiet and the silhouette clean. The best way to do this is to clasp the hands behind the back with the thumbs interlaced. This arrangement keeps the wrists relaxed, prevents fidgeting, and provides a stable, neat posture that clearly signals you’re in a waiting, disciplined state. It’s different from placing hands folded in front, on the hips, or at the sides, which would break the line of the parade and convey a different, less formal posture.