Elliptical Strides?

I think the strides have more to do with persomal preference than the type of workout you get, unless you are training for specific stride lengths, such as an 18" stride for mid-distances, or a short stride for sprints. If you are taller or shorter than average, though, your stride length for those raises wouldn't be the same as an average person.

I would do it based on feel, the one that feels better, and more natural, would be better in the long run because you are more likely to use that machine, and get a good work out!

i would encourage you to try the elliptical machine on different strides. they all work different muscles in your legs. the longest and most flat stride tends to work your whole leg, while the steepest and shortest stride works your quads and your buns if you squeeze them. the machines at my gym are adjustable so you can make the stride longer, shorter and also steep or flat. the machine will show me which muscles i'm using when i adjust it. also, don't be afraid to stride backward as well as forward: that really works your hamstrings, and it's a much harder workout!