Step length refers to the distance covered in one step while walking or running. It is typically measured from the heel of one foot to the heel of the other foot when they are in contact with the ground. Step length can vary based on factors such as a person's height, leg length, and walking speed. In general, a longer step length can indicate a more efficient gait, allowing for faster movement. Athletes, such as sprinters or long-distance runners, often focus on optimizing their step length to improve performance. Additionally, understanding step length can be useful in fields like physical therapy and biomechanics.