What is the value of strength vs. size in fighting?

Question

I am a 6ft security officer that weights 205 pounds. I lift weights and am strong but I don't have large muscles because my bone and body structure is longer rather than stocky.

In a fight, is it better to be strong, lean, with flexible muscles, or is it better to be shorter, stockier, and just as strong?

I would really like someone involved in MMA or a job like bouncing or security to answer this question.

Answer 1

It's TECHNIQUE!!!!!!!

Answer 2

Obviously taller is better for striking as the added reach gives a significant advantage.

Being short and strong can be good for grappling, because you can move around faster on the ground, and its hard to get a takedown on a short guy (unless he's just really light and you can pick him up easily). Also, it's harder to get an armbar on a guy with short and strong arms, but taller guys with longer legs can be better at triangle chokes.

Remember, skill and experience is always the most important part. Untrained fighters don't seem to realize this.

Answer 3

I'm a black belt and its all tecnic but if you have none you are screwd!!!

Answer 4

if youre 6', 205 and not muscular, then youre obviously carrying a lot of fat.  what matters is basically weight.  a 5'8 guy @ 205 will be a pretty even match with you.  a lot of short guys have been able to do well at open weight/ heavyweight and were considered unbeatable in their primes, like mike tyson (real height 5'9, billed as 5'11), igor vovchanchyn (5'8), etc.

Answer 5

Size and strength both have great value in fighting. Furthermore, the less skill/technical ablity either fighter has, the more size and strength begin to matter.

Skill -- as in, timing and positioning -- can defeat size and strength. Though skill carries more weight than size and strength, those attributes can also overcome skill.

Having all of the above is best.

In terms of strength vs size, each affords you differen benefits. Strength has more to do with grappling, in the sense that you will be pushing/pulling that person. Size has more to do with striking, as your size determines how much weight you can potentially put into your strikes. (Your form/technique is what determines how much weight you actually DO put into your strikes.) Size can also, but doesn't necessarily, affect how much strength you have.

In terms of what's more important, that depends on how the fight actually plays out. If you lifted your opponent up and slammed him on the ground, I'd imagine that strength was more important to you. However, if you clocked somebody in the face, then the weight you put behind your blow made more of a difference there than your strength.

As for what body type is better, it doesn't really matter, since you can't do much to change it. Each body type has its advantages and disadvantages, so you basically make due with what you have. Being strong is important, though, so one shouldn't settle for being weak.

As others have touched upon, being tall gives you reach, which helps for striking. Being short means that you've got a lower center of gravity, which helps for takedowns/not getting taken down.

Answer 6

Hello. I've been in the security field for 10 years now, and up until recently, was working unarmed. im 5'6, 170 lbs, medium build ,and body structure has never been a factor in my having to restrain someone or defend myself on the job. The main things to remember if it gets physical is know where the subjects hands are, grab and control his hands or body, and take him to the ground as fast as possible. Throw punches only if you are punched first; better yet, use only open handed strikes (slaps or shoves) I know thats hard, but as a security officer you are open to law suits, and must follow reasonable use of force. Wait for backup if possible.  Once again, body composition is not important, but do maintain  a training routine that helps prepare you for what you may encounter at work. Grip training is important, as well as sprints, for foot chases. Also ask for company approved training in defensive tactics (any good company will allow this, because employee safety should be a top priority) I hope I've been helpful. Good luck and be safe.

Answer 7

You really can't say that one is better than the other. It all depends on how well you use all your physical attributes.

At your height, with the attributes you mentioned, you're probably going to be better with quick, long ranging techniques. Use that to your advantage, but also keep in mind your weaknesses. Learn to adapt to opponents, such as someone who is shorter, and stocky that can get inside, or underneath your range, and do damage. You would want to lower your guard just enough to better guard your mid section, and adjust your stance to a lower position.

It's about how well you use your own body.