I understand there was an extensive discussion in Western Martial Arts about why old time boxers adopted the stance with arms held more or less out, seemlingly leaving their head open. Do you recall this thread? If so how could I get access to it?
I used the Search function on the forum and came up with this thread under search terms of "stance boxer" Title of the thread is "Traditional Boxing" started by the Mod of WMA Louie http://www.martialartsplanet.com/forums/showthread.php?t=20504&page=1&pp=15&highlight=stance+boxers I hope this is the one you're thinking of?
Boxing thread.... Thanks Melanie that should be it Hi Punchy The early boxers adopted this stance with arms held more or less out, to prevent their opponent rushing in to grapple which was part of boxing at the time .... (In much the same way as Chinese Wing Chun). Although old photos/pictures show a rigid extended arm stance, boxers moved their arms around and switched lead leg & there were boxers around who fought using 'modern-looking' stances. Louie
