Expert: Alan Kahn - 12/26/2007

Question
What is the normal or acceptable reach for a 6'3" heavyweight boxer?

Answer
Hi Patrick,

The accepted theory is that normal "human reach" (measured as "wingspan" is the same distance as your height.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reach_(physical_measurement)

For 6'3" that is 75 inches, so your "normal" wingspan (arms outstretched) should be 75 inches. Of course, there is often variances on the long and short end. Several great boxers had longer than normal reach, such as Sonny Liston (reported at over 80inches, and only 73 inches tall)
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071111000138AAu9M66
and Mohammad Ali had a longer reach than his height also.

and Lian Shoemake (another boxing expert on allexperts) reports that they also measure it by the normal jabbing distance,
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Boxing-1533/reach-1.htm

I expect any reach length is acceptable, for if it's longer you have an advantage to punch from further away, and if it is shorter you simply have to work in closer to your opponent. A good boxer will learn to adapt his style to his size and make it an advantage either way.

Good luck and I hope this information helps.

sincerely

Alan Kahn
author, The Speed Bag Bible