Commands

Command Voice

A correctly delivered command will be understood by everyone in the class. Correct commands have a tone, cadence, and snap that demand willing, correct, and immediate response from students.

The loudness of a command is adjusted to the number of students in the class. It is necessary for the voice to have carrying power, but excessive exertion is unnecessary and harmful. A typical result of trying too hard is the almost unconscious tightening of the neck muscles to force sound out. This produces strain, hoarseness, sore throat, and worst of all, indistinct and jumbled sounds instead of clear commands. Ease is achieved through good posture, proper breathing, correct adjustment of throat and mouth muscles, and confidence.

Posture

The best posture for giving commands is the position of charyot. Students notice the posture of the instructor. If the posture is unmilitary relaxed, slouched, stiff, or uneasy, the students will imitate it.

Diaphragm

The most important muscle used in breathing is the diaphragm—the large muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm automatically controls normal breathing and is used to control the breath in giving commands. Use the diaphragm to force air from the lungs during a command instead of trying to use the lungs. The commands will be sharper and more commanding. The throat, mouth, and nose act as amplifiers and help to give fullness (resonance) and projection to the voice.