How Do You Measure a Boxer’s Reach? Step-by-Step Guide

Jeremy Emebe
Boxing Fundamentals Beginner Friendly

Reach measurement is one of the first things you hear about in boxing— yet most beginners either measure it wrong or misunderstand what it really means. Here’s the exact, correct way to measure a boxer’s reach and how to use that number in training.

Coach measuring a boxer’s reach with a tape measure.
⚡ Quick Answer: A boxer’s reach is their wingspan—the distance from fingertip to fingertip with both arms extended horizontally at shoulder height. This is the standard measurement used in broadcasts and official stats.

1) What “Reach” Really Means

Boxer extending both arms showing wingspan measuring position.

In boxing, reach is essentially your wingspan—measured from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other. It often correlates with height, but some fighters have unusually long or short reaches for their frame.

Reach affects how easily you can control distance, score jabs, and stay out of danger.

  • Arm Length: One arm from shoulder to fist
  • Height: Entire body length
  • Ape Index: Reach minus height

2) Standard Wingspan Method

This is the official method used in fight stats and broadcasts. It requires a partner and a tape measure.

What You Need

  • A flexible tape measure
  • A flat wall
  • A partner (highly recommended)

Step-by-Step

  1. Stand tall with heels lightly touching the wall.
  2. Extend both arms at shoulder height, palms forward.
  3. Relax shoulders—no shrugging or stretching unnaturally.
  4. Partner measures fingertip-to-fingertip in a straight line.
  5. Record the number in inches and centimeters.
Coach’s Tip: Measure 2–3 times and take the average. Small posture changes affect accuracy.

3) Other Measurement Methods

Different commissions or gyms occasionally use alternative methods:

  • Demi-span (×2): One arm measured from chest to fingertip, doubled.
  • Shoulder-to-fist: Useful for analyzing punching leverage.
  • Chest-included systems: Include torso width (rare, but exists).

For comparing yourself to pro stats: always use wingspan.

4) How to Measure at Home

Boxer measuring reach using wall marks at home.

Method A — With a Partner

  1. Stand straight with back against a wall.
  2. Extend arms fully.
  3. Your partner ensures posture stays neutral.
  4. Measure fingertip-to-fingertip.
  5. Record number.

Method B — Solo Wall Marks

  1. Mark fingertip on one side of the wall.
  2. Rotate and mark the other side.
  3. Measure distance between marks.
  4. Clean wall after.
Note: If you're still growing, recheck reach every few months.

5) What Your Number Means

Compare reach to height to understand your natural boxing style tendencies.

Long Reach (+5cm / +2in or more)

Great for long-range control, jabs, and outside fighting.

Neutral Reach

Balanced style options—can fight inside, mid-range, or outside.

Short Reach (−5cm / −2in or more)

Ideal for pressure fighting, angles, and inside combinations.

Reach alone doesn't decide outcomes. Skill, IQ, and conditioning matter more.

6) Using Reach in Training & Sparring

If You Have Long Reach

  • Develop a sharp, active jab.
  • Use stick-and-move footwork.
  • Focus on straight punches early on.

If You Have Shorter Reach

  • Practice slipping jabs aggressively.
  • Use angles to close distance.
  • Develop body work and tight combos.
Pro Tip: Rewatch pro fights and study how fighters manage distance with their reach.

7) Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Shrugged or hunched shoulders
  • Bent elbows
  • Tape measure not level
  • Measuring alone with poor posture

Take your time and measure carefully.

8) Method Comparison

Method How Used By Pros Cons
Wingspan Fingertip to fingertip Pro stats Accurate, universal Needs partner
Demi-span ×2 One arm ×2 Some gyms Easy in small spaces Errors get doubled
Shoulder-to-fist Single arm Technique analysis Shows leverage Not comparable to reach

Frequently Asked Questions

Is reach the same as wingspan?
Yes. Wingspan is the standard measurement used in boxing.
Should I measure in inches or cm?
Boxing stats use inches, but recording both is helpful.
Can reach increase?
Bone length won’t change, but posture and technique can improve effective reach.
Is longer reach always better?
Only if used well—shorter fighters excel at pressure and angles.

Conclusion

Reach is simple to measure yet incredibly valuable for understanding your boxing style. Whether long, neutral, or short—it’s how you use it that matters.

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