Stride adjustment program

In an elliptical step exercise apparatus where stride length can be varied the various user programs can take advantage of this feature to provide for an enhanced workout. A control system can be used to implement a preprogrammed exercise routine such as a hill program where stride is shortened as the user goes up a simulated hill and lengthened as the user goes down the hill. In an interval training program, stride length can be increased and decreased at periodic intervals. In a cross training program, stride length can be decreased when the user is pedaling backwards and increased when the user is pedaling forwards.