The stride length of an elliptical machine is an important factor for a comfortable, effective workout. If the stride is too short, you may feel cramped and jerky. If it is too long, you may have to overstretch your legs, which is uncomfortable. Elliptical machines have a range of stride lengths, with the average being between 18 and 20 inches.
Identification
The stride length of an elliptical machine is the widest distance between the two pedals as measured from the toe of the front pedal to the heel of the back pedal. Similar to your walking stride length, if you have to drastically shorten or elongate your stride, it is not comfortable. Using an elliptical with a very short or very long stride length will feel unnatural and forced.
Stride Ranges
The stride length on an elliptical machine is typically between 14 and 26 inches. Most stride lengths are measured in even numbers, such as 14, 16, 18 or 20 inches, but some elliptical machines have odd stride lengths, such as 15 or 19 inches. Lower-end, compact elliptical machines have stride lengths of 14 to 16 inches. The average stride length is 18 to 20. Higher-end machines or those designed for taller users have stride lengths of more than 20 inches.
Stride Recommendations
The proper stride length for a user is calculated by height. AllEllipticals.com recommends 16- and 18-inch stride lengths for users 5 feet 3 inches or shorter. If you are between 5-3 and 5-7, select an 18- to 20-inch stride length. If you are over 5-7, select a stride length more than 20 inches. These are only guidelines to help you narrow down your options. The only way to tell if an elliptical machine has a good stride length for you is to try the machine out.
Adjustable Stride Lengths
Front-drive elliptical machines, which have the flywheel in front of the pedals, have a flatter pedal motion than a rear-drive elliptical. To overcome the flatter motion, subtract 2 inches off the stride length. For example, a 20-inch stride length on a front-drive elliptical is comparable to an 18-inch stride length on a rear-drive elliptical. Some elliptical models offer adjustable stride lengths. This is a useful feature if you have more than one regular user of the machine.
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