Expert: Lian Shoemake - 10/16/2006

Question
so there are 2 ways to measure a boxers reach- fingertip to fingertip and armpit to fist.  wich one are the profesionals referring to when they talk about a boxers reach?  and are they talking millimeters or inches?  thank you, david klanac

Answer
Hi David,

Thanks for the question.
It all depends on which expert is talking :) The "traditional" method of measuring reach has been from fingertip to fingertip, which actually measures wingspan. That method is misleading, since a boxer with a broad back but short arms might on paper have a longer reach than an opponent who actually does have longer arms. The more recent method, championed lately by HBO, is the fist to armpit method you described. That's probably more accurate, but I've always maintained that timing and technique matter much more in jabbing than reach. Remember short-armed young Mike Tyson outjabbing lanky opponents like Tyrell Biggs and Mitch Green?

The measurements have always been in inches, as far as I know.

I hope this helps, David.
Thanks for the question!

Regards,
Lian