Ape Index Calculator
Calculate your wingspan to height ratio and discover your athletic advantages
Calculate Your Ape Index
Distance from fingertip to fingertip with arms spread
Your standing height from floor to top of head
Your Ape Index Results
Formula: Ape Index = Wingspan ÷ Height
Example: Michael Phelps
Olympic Swimming Champion
Height: 193 cm (6'4")
Wingspan: 203 cm (6'7")
Ape Index: 203 ÷ 193 = 1.052
Classification: Positive
Swimming Advantage
• Longer reach per stroke
• Better propulsion efficiency
• Reduced stroke count per length
• Enhanced underwater dolphin kicks
Famous Athletes' Ape Index
How to Measure Correctly
Height
Stand against wall, mark top of head, measure from floor
Wingspan
Arms parallel to floor, measure fingertip to fingertip
Tip: Ask someone to help with wingspan measurement for accuracy
Classifications
Understanding the Ape Index
What is the Ape Index?
The ape index, also known as the wingspan-to-height ratio, compares your arm span to your height. It's named after the way apes typically have longer arms relative to their height compared to humans. This anthropometric measurement has significant implications for athletic performance in various sports.
Historical Context
Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man depicted the "perfect" human proportions with wingspan equal to height (ape index = 1.0). However, athletic performance often benefits from deviations from this "perfect" ratio, depending on the sport.
Sports Applications
Positive Ape Index Sports
Boxing, Swimming, Basketball, Climbing - benefit from longer reach
Neutral/Negative Advantages
Gymnastics, Running, Wrestling - benefit from compact proportions
Alternative Formula
Ratio Method: Wingspan ÷ Height
Difference Method: Wingspan - Height