We’ve had these discussions, time and again. I’m not refering to the Amidah, rather to the rest. And one does NOT remain still when davening the Amidah too. (Which Halacha states to remain still???)
As to your pet peeve, maybe one should not look around while in middle of davening… it won’t distract you if you’re not looking…
One of my pet peeves is the ridiculous habit of people to look around during Davening, to get peeved at someone else doing ridiculous movements.
While clapping I agree with you is clearly a nuisance to the tzibur, I’ve heard of seforim (not seen, just heard) condoning the movements some make during Davening. They say it’s someone’s last attempt to be mechaven, to pray in earnest with concentration, like the movements one would make in midst of drowning, trying to grab on to anything… Nothing to poke fun at.. Especially if the ones peeved do not Daven properly…
But the main part of my post was the rest of Davening, while singing the praises of HaShem, extolling Him, thanking Him for all His goodnesses, it ought to be with “chius”, a “bren”, enthusiastic outpouring of the heart… Read what Rabbi Miller ??”? writes and says, I don’t make things up (generally).