What is the ruling on equaling the Imam in the actions of prayer?

It is better for the follower to follow the Imam, rather than to be parallel with him or to precede him. It is therefore recommended for the follower to begin the actions of prayer (raising and lowering) after the Imam has completed them. Being parallel with the Imam in the actions of prayer, such as prostration and bowing, is disliked, but the prayer remains valid.