In a ready stance, how should your hands be positioned?

In a ready stance, the positioning of your hands is critical for maintaining a balance between control and readiness to respond. The correct answer highlights the importance of having your hands open with palms facing the subject, fingers pointing up, at mid-chest level. This positioning allows for a non-threatening posture while also maximizing your ability to react quickly if the situation escalates.

Having your palms facing the subject conveys an open and non-aggressive stance, which can help de-escalate tension and signal to the subject that you are approachable. Furthermore, positioning your hands near mid-chest allows for both better visibility and quicker movement, as you are more prepared to defend yourself or take necessary action. This readiness is vital in maintaining safety for both yourself and the subject.

Other hand positions, such as clenched fists at waist level, could signal aggression or readiness to fight, which can heighten conflict rather than reduce it. Similarly, open palms down or outward might not provide the necessary readiness to respond effectively to sudden changes in the situation. Thus, the correct hand position serves both practical and psychological purposes in ensuring a controlled environment.