Hands up, but really needed?

[black.ink]

It's better keeping your hands up now to get used to it. Sooner than later it will come as a reflex, where you wouldn't know your doing it.

Better safe then sorry.

[sterling]

gd question and why does southpaw pros always have there feckin right hand down so much?

[BrooklynBomber]

Yes, as a rule of a thumb it is better to keep your hands up all the time if you are a beginner.

[makaveli_uk]

Most people have a loose guard for outside fighting but as soon as the flurries come in they cover up.

[ELPacman]

Well, first off, that's basic learning talk. If your learning the basics, of course your coach will tell you to put your hands up. Mine did. I mean, he doesn't want you to get knocked out in sparring to begin with. I mean it just makes sense. Your hands are up, your protecting your head as best as you can even if shots do get through. Once you get more comfortable and are able to better read your opponent meaning, knowing where his shots are coming from by his body language, you'll develope your own style better.