What is the Ape Index?

The ape index is usually defined as the ratio of arm span to height. However, an alternative approach is arm span minus height with the result being positive, 0 or negative. Unlike the unitless ratio, this calculation produces a numeric value in the units of measurement used to represent the height and arm span.

How to measure your ape ratio?

When you already know how to measure your ape ratio, you need to know that most of society has a neutral ape index, which means it equals around 1. The negative ape index (below 1) means that your wingspan is lower than your height. On the other hand, a positive ape index (above 1) means that your wingspan is greater than your height.

How do you calculate Tiger Woods Ape Index?

To calculate his ape index as a ratio you divide his wingspan by his height: When expressed as a ratio, Woods has an ape index of 1.06. Bottom line: The typical ape index ratio is 1. A number greater than one means your wingspan is greater than your height, and a number less than one means your height is greater than your wingspan.

Do ape indexes matter in rock climbing?

In rock climbing it is believed that an Ape Index greater than one, where the arm span is greater than the height, provides for a competitive advantage, and some climbers have expressed the belief that exercise can result in an improved ratio, although this view is somewhat controversial.