What’s the difference between a step and a stride?
A step is from one foot landing to the other foot landing. A stride is two steps, from one foot back to the same foot. Step counters count steps, so step length is the number that turns them into distance.
How is it worked out from height?
Taller people have longer legs and take longer steps: a walking step is close to 41% of height. It’s a rule of thumb, and your own may be a few centimetres either side, which is why measuring is better.
How do I measure mine?
Walk a distance you know, such as 100 metres of a running track, at your normal pace, counting each step. Divide the distance by the steps. Do it twice and take the average.
In StepUp
Your iPhone measures your real step length as you walk, and StepUp reads it from Apple Health.
Questions
What is the average step length?
Around 70 cm (27.5 in) for an adult 170 cm (5 ft 7 in) tall; around 74 cm (29 in) at 178 cm (5 ft 10 in).
Does step length change with age?
It tends to shorten in later life. A step that shortens quickly can be worth mentioning to a doctor.
Where does my iPhone record it?
In the Health app under Mobility, as Walking Step Length, measured when you walk with your iPhone in a pocket.