Calculate your ape index — the ratio of your arm span to your height. Important for climbing, boxing, swimming, and other sports where reach matters.
Last updated: March 2026
Medical disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate only and is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a medical device and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Individual proportions can vary based on genetics, training, and other factors. Use results with caution and consult a qualified healthcare professional before making medical, training, or nutrition decisions.
Ape index is the ratio of your arm span (fingertip to fingertip) to your height. The term comes from the observation that apes typically have longer arms relative to their height compared to humans. A ratio of 1.0 means your arm span equals your height — the human average.
Some athletes with a higher ape index (ratio greater than 1.0) may have an arm span longer than their height. This proportional difference may be relevant in sports where reach is a factor, though genetics, training, technique, and many other factors determine athletic performance.
The ape index can also be expressed as a simple difference (arm span minus height) rather than a ratio. For example, if your arm span is 185cm and height is 175cm, your ape index difference is +10cm and your ratio is 1.057.
For most people, an ape index of 1.0 (neutral) is normal and healthy. Different body proportions may be advantageous for different activities, but individual training, technique, and other factors determine performance much more than ape index alone.
No. Long arms help in climbing, boxing, swimming, basketball, and MMA. But shorter arms can be advantageous for powerlifting, running, and gymnastics where a compact build provides leverage and efficiency.
Genetics primarily determine your proportions. Factors include ancestry (some populations have longer or shorter limb ratios), gender (men typically have slightly longer arms relative to height), and individual genetic variation.
No, your bone length is fixed after puberty. However, improving shoulder flexibility and posture can help you maximize your reach. Focus on what you can control: technique, strength, and flexibility.
Not at all! A negative ape index can be advantageous for running (lower center of gravity), powerlifting (shorter range of motion), and gymnastics (easier body control). Different body types excel at different activities.
Some basketball and MMA athletes have ape indices exceeding 1.15. UFC fighter Jon Jones has a 1.11 ratio (215cm span, 193cm height). Extremely tall individuals with Marfan syndrome can have ratios above 1.20.
No, always measure height barefoot for accuracy. Shoes add 1-3cm, which would artificially lower your ape index ratio. Consistency matters — use the same measurement method each time.
Your ratio remains constant after puberty. However, height can decrease slightly with age due to spinal compression, which would technically increase your ape index ratio. This change is minimal (1-2cm over decades).
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