That's what I've read, the spindle should hit about your elbow. I've never actually measured mine though.
I was wonwering if this was right because my back sure has been hurting - I don't know if it is from working or from the turning - I will check it this weekend and see what I have - I don't know what I am going to do if my son ever starts turning - he is 6'5:swoon:
He's too tall to turn on one lathe .... you'll have to double-stack the lathes for him!