One common error is to raise your shoulders up towards your ears. If you notice this, shrug your shoulders down and try to relax them of tension. Don’t worry if your lower back still has a slight curvature, as this is natural. Holding your back too straight can cause immediate strain and back problems over time.
Avoid locking your knees while you stand at attention, as this can cause dizziness.
Try not to look around or move your head while standing at attention to keep an air of formality. To prevent stiffness, try to relax the muscles in your neck and jaw while holding your head erect.
To ensure proper hand alignment, try to position your thumbs along the seams of your pant legs. [5] X Research source
Moving or talking without being addressed while standing at attention is considered a violation and may result in apprehension, depending on the situation.
If no flags are visible and the music seems to come from your right, for example, stand facing the right.
If you’re a U. S. military personnel, you may also follow this during other songs like Taps, the Marines Hymn, or the U. S. Army Anthem. [9] X Research source
Unless directed otherwise by your superiors, you usually may wear military headdresses while the National Anthem plays.
If you are former or current part of the U. S. Military, you may salute for the entire National Anthem. To show respect for the U. S. Military, do not salute if you are not a current or former member of the Armed Forces.
Your arms should be straight and extended while standing at attention. Do not tuck your elbows in towards your chest while standing at attention. If standing without instruments, hold your hands at your side with your fingers slightly cupped, as you would while performing a military position of attention.
As with military positions of attention, do not move your eyes around while standing at attention.
Locking your knees for too long can cause lightheadedness or even fainting.
