Reach is an important metric in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), particularly in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
It is a measure of the length of a fighter’s arms, which can impact their striking and grappling abilities. A longer reach can provide a fighter with a significant advantage, as they can potentially strike their opponent from a distance while avoiding retaliation.
In this article, MMA Predictions will explain how to measure reach in the UFC and discuss its importance in MMA competition.
Definition of Reach
In the UFC, reach is defined as the distance between a fighter’s fingertips when their arms are fully extended horizontally. This measurement is often referred to as the “wingspan” or “arm span.”
Reach is typically measured in inches (in the United States) or centimeters (internationally).
How to Measure Reach
To measure a fighter’s reach, follow these steps:
How to Measure Reach
- Stand against a wall
Have the fighter stand with their back against a wall, ensuring that their heels, buttocks, shoulders, and head are touching the wall. Their feet should be shoulder-width apart, and their weight should be evenly distributed.
- Extend the arms
The fighter should extend their arms horizontally, forming a straight line parallel to the ground. Their arms should be level with their shoulders, and their palms should face forward.
- Measure the distance
Using a tape measure, record the distance from the tip of one middle finger to the tip of the other middle finger. Make sure the tape measure is straight and parallel to the ground. This measurement is the fighter’s reach.
- Record the measurement
Write down the reach measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on the standard used in your region.
Reach in the UFC’s Tale of the Tape
Before a UFC fight, the “tale of the tape” is presented, which provides key statistics about each fighter, such as their age, height, weight, and reach.
This information helps fans and analysts compare the physical attributes of the fighters and consider how these factors may impact the bout.
Importance of Reach in MMA
Reach can play a significant role in MMA competition for several reasons:
- Striking advantage: Fighters with longer reach can potentially land strikes on their opponents without being in range of counterstrikes. This advantage can be particularly beneficial in striking exchanges, allowing fighters to utilize their range to control distance and dictate the pace of the fight.
- Grappling advantage: A longer reach can also provide leverage in grappling exchanges, both in the clinch and on the ground. Fighters with longer limbs may have an easier time securing submissions or establishing dominant positions.
- Defensive advantage: Reach can be beneficial in avoiding strikes, as fighters with longer arms can maintain distance and use their reach to parry or block incoming attacks.
Reach Isn’t Everything
While reach can provide certain advantages in MMA, it is not the sole determining factor in a fighter’s success. Skill, technique, conditioning, and fight IQ all play crucial roles in determining the outcome of a bout.
A fighter with a shorter reach can still be successful by employing effective strategies to close the distance and negate their opponent’s reach advantage.
Our Conclusion on Reach in UFC
Reach is an important metric in MMA, as it can impact a fighter’s striking and grappling abilities.
By measuring the distance between a fighter’s extended fingertips, one can assess their reach and consider how it may influence a bout.
While reach can provide certain advantages, it is crucial to remember that it is just one of many factors that determine the outcome of an MMA fight.
