Parallel stance.....................................................................................
The parallel stance (shown in Figure 10-2) is a subordinate position where the
legs are straight and the feet are placed closely together. It’s a position taken
if you are called up in front of the headmaster, reporting to your commanding
officer, or standing in front of a judge, awaiting sentence.Feet placed closely together reduce the foundation for standing and make the
stance more precarious. You can easily push someone over from this position
if you were to catch him off guard. People who aren’t sure about their posi-
tion on a subject adopt the parallel stance. Standing with their legs closely
placed together they’re indicating that they feel hesitant or tentative. A wider
stance provides a broader and firmer foundation. It is much harder to unbal-
ance a person who’s standing with his legs separated (refer to the preceding
section ‘Straddle stance’).When Max received his school’s Naval Cadet of the Year Award he had to
march across the quad, outfitted in full dress uniform. His stride was firm and
his legs moved crisply. His shoulders were back and upright. When he
reached his commanding officer he smartly placed his feet together and kept
his position held high. By standing to attention, with his legs straight and his
feet closely placed together, in front of his commanding officer, he was
demonstrating both his respect and his subservience.Figure 10-2:
The parallel
stance is a
sign of
uncertainty
and
submission.
Chapter 10: Standing Your Ground 169