Step length is the distance covered when you take one step. It is measured from the heel print of one foot to the heel print of the other foot. Stride length, on the other hand, is the distance covered when you take two steps, one with each foot. It is the distance between successive points of initial contact of the same foot. The average persons walking step (stride) length is approximately 76.2cm or 2.5ft (~30 inches) . There might be a difference between your left step length and your right step length. According to the University of Iowa, the average person’s walking step length is 2.5 feet (30 inches), so the average stride length would be approximately 5 feet (60 inches) .

To calculate your step length, start with your two feet together and start walking. You can start with either foot, but let’s say you start with your left. Lift your left foot up and step forward. Now both feet are on the ground with your left foot ahead of your right one. Lift your right foot and swing it forward past your left foot, and place it on the ground. Now both feet are on the ground with the right foot ahead of the left one. The distance your left foot traveled (from the toe of your right foot to the toe of your left foot, or from the heel of your right foot to the heel of your left foot) is your step length.

To calculate your stride length, you need to measure the distance between successive points of initial contact of the same foot. You can use a measuring tape and chalk (outside) or masking tape (inside) to measure and mark off a specific distance, such as 10m. Start walking about 2m before you hit the first mark to ensure you get up to your natural walking speed. Begin counting your steps, stopping your count when you hit the second mark. Divide the number of feet in the distance you walked by the number of steps you took to get your stride length.

Its important to note that stride length is largely dependent on height, and fitness monitors and pedometers often employ formulas to calculate your average step length based on your height. For example, for females, height in inches multiplied by 0.413 equals step length, and for males, height in inches multiplied by 0.415 equals step length.