How to Stand at Ease

In military service, there are things you need to learn that are different from civilian life. In the military, there's absolute obedience to anyone whose rank is higher than yours. You don't get to question or debate the orders. Part of that discipline code involves a variety of stances when officers are present. One of those stances is known as standing at ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Stand at attention with both heels touching each other and toes pointed away at a 45-degree angle. Keep both legs straight, chest raised and pointed out, and shoulders square.

2. Allow both hands to touch the seam of your pants at only the index finger and the joint of the thumb. Keep your head erect, and look directly to the front of the formation. Keep your neck straight and your chin in line with your head.

3. Remain in this position until you're given the command "At ease!" or "Stand at ease!"

4. Turn your eyes toward the individual in charge of the formation.

5. Interlace your thumbs either in front or behind you and relax a little bit by separating your left foot from your right. You must stay standing. Don't move your right foot and don't make any noise.

Tips & Warnings

• Any time you address someone with a superior rank, stand at attention unless that individual tells you to stand at ease.
• Standing at ease is a more relaxed stance, but it isn't the same as being at rest. It's still a disciplined stance. Your commander didn't give you the command to do whatever you want.