About StepsToMiles
StepsToMiles turns a step count into a distance you can actually picture, and shows its working rather than handing you a single number and asking you to trust it.
The formulas we use
Distance
miles = steps × step length in inches ÷ 63,360
A mile is 63,360 inches. Our default step length is 30 inches (2.5 ft), which works out at about 2,112 steps per mile.
Step length from height
step length = height × 0.413
A widely used estimate for walking. Running lengthens the step to roughly 0.65 of height.
Walking time
minutes = steps ÷ cadence
We show three cadences: 90 steps per minute for a stroll, 105 for an average walk, 120 for a brisk one.
Calories
kcal per minute = MET × 3.5 × body mass in kg ÷ 200
Using 3.5 METs for moderate walking, applied over the average-pace walking time.
What these numbers can and cannot tell you
Every figure on this site is an estimate built on assumptions that are reasonable for most people and wrong for some. Step length varies with pace, terrain, footwear, age, injury and what you happen to be carrying. Calorie figures are rougher still: energy cost differs with fitness, gradient, temperature and efficiency, and a MET-based estimate can easily be off by a fifth in either direction.
Where the site can be precise, it is. Unit conversions are exact. Where it cannot be, it says so and shows you the range instead of a false decimal.
Getting a result that is actually yours
The single most useful thing you can do is spend two minutes measuring your own step length, then use the stride slider on any conversion page instead of the default. The method is in how many steps are in a mile. If you would rather not measure, the by height tables will get you closer than a generic average.
Not medical advice
StepsToMiles is a reference tool. Nothing on it is medical, dietary or fitness advice, and it should not be used to make decisions about treatment, training or recovery. Speak to a qualified professional for that.