Final answer:
In a natural stance with a foot forward, the feet are not necessarily wider than the body, but this position grants greater balance and readiness for movement due to the wider base of support and the utilization of muscles for stability.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the natural stance with a foot forward, the feet are not wider than the widest part of the body. Instead, they are positioned in a way that allows for a stable equilibrium in relation to sideways displacements, similar to how a pencil remains stable when standing on its eraser. However, humans are less stable with respect to forward and backward displacements due to the relative length of our feet. To counteract this instability and increase balance, muscles are employed extensively. When our feet are in a wider stance, the base of support is expanded, enhancing stability. Similarly, lowering the center of gravity, such as by bending the knees, can also lead to increased stability. This type of position is akin to that adopted by a football player who is ready to receive a ball or brace for a tackle, displaying how a foot forward and wider stance contributes to a more 'ready' position, allowing for quick directional changes and improved balance.