Abstract
Stride length is a vital health indicator, reflecting physical fitness and mobility status. Although several existing formulas aim to estimate stride length, many are limited by a lack of scientific validation, especially among healthy, active adults. This study addresses these limitations by developing a validated model based on healthy adults without known mobility impairments, aiming to establish a more accurate, clinically useful standard for stride length estimation. The model provides a reference range for healthy stride length, usable as a tool to identify individuals at risk of mobility issues. PURPOSE: To develop an evidence-based model for predicting stride length using key physical indicators in a healthy adult population. METHODS: A total of 240 healthy adults (20 per gender per decade, ages 19-90) participated in this study. The sample was randomly split, with 80% used for training and 20% for testing. Stride length (cm) was measured using the GAITRite system as participants walked at their usual, self-selected normal speed for two minutes. Predictor variables included sex, age, height (cm), and body weight (kg). The final model was developed using multiple regression analysis on the training dataset and was cross-validated using the testing dataset. Model performance was assessed by comparing predicted stride lengths with actual measurements using R², standard error of estimate (SEE), and mean difference. Additionally, a prediction interval was calculated to estimate the healthy range of stride length. RESULTS: The average age and stride length were 49.7 ± 18.2 years and 137.7 ± 14.2 cm, respectively. The final model demonstrated acceptable predictive accuracy (R² = 0.46; SEE = 9.50) with a prediction interval of ± 3.0 cm. The equation for estimated stride length was 34.70 – 0.30 × (age) + 0.76 × (height[cm]) – 0.15 × (weight[kg]) – 3.33 × (sex [male = 0; female = 1]). Cross-validation showed no significant difference between actual stride length (137.5 ± 12.9 cm) and predicted stride length (135.5 ± 8.8 cm; p = 0.185). CONCLUSION: The developed model demonstrated acceptable predictive accuracy for estimating healthy stride length. This model not only serves as a practical tool for assessing gait health but also establishes a reference range for healthy stride length.
Recommended Citation
Lee, Jungyu; Han, Ho; Kim, Heontae; and DIAZ-VEGA, DIEGO
(2025)
"Developing an Evidence-Based Model for Healthy Stride Length Prediction,"
International Journal of Exercise Science: Conference Proceedings: Vol. 2:
Iss.
17, Article 15.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/ijesab/vol2/iss17/15
Included in
Health and Physical Education Commons, Medical Education Commons, Sports Sciences Commons
