Measured tread in room outside squat (4,4)

I believe the answer is:

slow pace

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'measured tread' is the definition.
I don't know anything about this answer so I can't tell whether this works.

'room outside squat' is the wordplay.
'room' becomes 'space' (I've seen this in another clue).
'outside' means one lot of letters goes inside another.
'squat' becomes 'low' (similar in meaning).
'space' going around 'low' is 'SLOW PACE'.

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.