In running and walking terms, a step is one foot to the other; a stride is two steps – the same foot landing again. Stride length together with cadence sets your speed.
How to use the Stride Length Calculator
- Method
- Sex
- Height
- Distance walked
- Steps taken
- Cadence (steps per minute, optional)
Results update as you type, every field has its own unit menu, and everything is calculated in your browser.
How it works
Choose the method and enter your height or the distance and the number of steps you took.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Method | Choose one: Estimate from height, Measure: distance and steps |
| Sex | Choose one: Male, Female |
| Height | Units: cm, m, ft, in |
| Distance walked | Units: m, ft, yd |
| Steps taken | A number |
| Cadence (steps per minute, optional) | A number |
What each result means
- Step length = [S]
- Stride length (2 steps) = 2×[S]
- Speed at your cadence = [S]×[Cadence (steps per minute, optional)]÷60
Example values
How the main result changes when Height changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Height (cm) | Stride length (2 steps) (cm) |
|---|---|
| 87.5 | 72.625 |
| 131.25 | 108.9375 |
| 175 | 145.25 |
| 218.75 | 181.5625 |
| 262.5 | 217.875 |
| 350 | 290.5 |
Formula
Step ≈ 0.415 × height (men), 0.413 × height (women) · Stride = 2 × step · Measured: step = distance ÷ steps
Worked example
Inputs — Method: Estimate from height; Sex: Male; Height: 175 cm; Cadence (steps per minute, optional): 110.
Results — Step length = 72.625 cm; Stride length (2 steps) = 145.25 cm; Compared with the average step = 95 %; Speed at your cadence = 4.79 km/h.
Key terms
- Cadence
- Steps per minute.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between step and stride?
A stride is two steps.
What is an average stride length?
About 1.4–1.6 m when walking for adults.
Should I lengthen my running stride?
Usually it's better to raise cadence slightly than to overstride.
How do I measure stride length?
Count steps over a known distance and divide.