Final answer:
The statement is FALSE. Step length is the distance from the point of initial contact of one foot to the initial contact of the other foot, not the same foot, which instead defines stride length.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that step length is defined as the distance measured from heel strike of the SAME foot is FALSE. Step length is actually defined as the distance measured from the point of initial contact of one foot to the point of initial contact of the OTHER foot. This is during a walking cycle, where the cycle consists of a stride made up of two successive step lengths. To measure step length accurately, one would typically start from the heel strike of one foot and measure to the heel strike of the opposite foot as it completes its own step.
The confusion may arise from the similar term ‘stride length’, which is the distance covered in one stride cycle, consisting of two consecutive foot contacts of the same foot. So, while stride length is the distance from heel strike to the next heel strike of the same foot, step length is concerned with alternate feet.
It is important to note that parameters like step length are critical when assessing and analyzing gait and mobility issues. Therefore, a clear understanding of these terms is essential for professionals in fields like physical therapy, sports science, and rehabilitation medicine.