What term refers to the number of steps taken in a certain amount of time?

The term that refers to the number of steps taken in a certain amount of time is "cadence." Cadence is a specific metric that is often used in various forms of physical activity, particularly running and cycling, to assess how frequently a person is taking steps or pedal strokes. It is typically measured in steps per minute (spm) for walking or running and can help athletes optimize their performance and efficiency.

Stride, while related to walking or running, refers to the length of a single step rather than the frequency of steps. Distance measures how far a person has traveled rather than how fast or frequently they are moving. Speed encompasses the rate at which someone travels a certain distance over a specified time but does not specifically focus on the number of steps taken. Thus, cadence is the most accurate term for describing the frequency of steps taken in a particular timeframe.