Stride length is a fundamental measure of gait that represents the linear distance traveled during one complete gait cycle. It is measured from the point where one foot contacts the ground to the point where the same foot contacts the ground again, essentially covering two step lengths (one for each foot).
Key Concepts
- Stride Length: Distance from right heel strike to the next right heel strike (or left to left)
- Step Length: Distance from one foot's contact to the opposite foot's contact (half a stride)
- Stride length = right step length + left step length
Normal Values and Variations
Typical stride lengths for adults:
- Walking: 1.2 to 1.5 meters (4 to 5 feet)
- Running: 2.0 to 3.5+ meters (6.5 to 11+ feet), depending on speed and individual factors
Stride length is influenced by:
- Leg length (taller individuals typically have longer strides)
- Speed of locomotion (faster speeds generally increase stride length)
- Terrain and surface conditions
- Fatigue and physical condition
- Age and mobility limitations
- Footwear and clothing
Relationship to Speed
Walking or running speed is determined by two factors:
Speed = Stride Length × Cadence
Individuals can increase speed by lengthening their stride, increasing their cadence, or both. Elite distance runners often optimize the balance between these two factors to maximize efficiency.
Clinical Significance
Shortened stride length may indicate:
- Pain or injury compensation
- Neurological impairment affecting gait
- Balance or stability concerns
- Reduced hip or ankle range of motion
- Muscle weakness, particularly in hip extensors
Asymmetric stride lengths between left and right sides often suggest:
- Unilateral injury or weakness
- Limb length discrepancy
- Neurological issues affecting one side
Video Analysis Applications
Measuring stride length through video analysis requires:
- Clear side view of the subject walking or running
- Calibration to establish real-world distances
- Identification of contact points for each foot
- Frame-by-frame tracking to measure distances accurately
Regular monitoring of stride length can help track rehabilitation progress, evaluate training adaptations, or identify emerging movement problems before they become serious injuries.