Think about it ... natural position for hands is at sides or straight out in front, but always at the sides, not center of body.
Joystick in center is not the most natural position (smirks aside). When used to have big joysticks (more smirks), needed to be in center to have enough room for complete movement.
F-16 has one of the most advanced cockpits, designed for 9gs, and its controls are on the sides for least stress, joystick on the right side. So I recall, anyway, long time since I've seen one.