In space no one can hear you scream. That’s an old science fiction line of course, but it has truth to it because sound doesn’t travel in a vacuum. What can travel in a vacuum is you, as in you can still run in a vacuum. The question of course is why would you want to do so?
Well, the answer is that running results in pounding on the joints, and this repetitive pounding on knees, hips and ankles isn’t good. The irony is that running is great for the heart. So how do you keep the running and reduce the pounding? A trip to the International Space Station would work, but that would be pricey. The alternative is an anti-gravity treadmill.
That might sound like something out of Star Trek but the technology is around today. The Alter G Anti-Gravity Treadmill allows runners to essentially climb into a shoe shaped enclosure, which utilizes pressure regulation that can reduce body weight from 0 percent to 80 percent. Users still have to suit up with a special pair of shorts, and while not as cumbersome as a full space suit, these aren’t exactly your normal running attire either.
Likewise, the system might cost far less than a trip to space, but currently this system is really meant more for medical facilities and higher-end health clubs. Several professional sports franchises, as well as some university sports programs are currently using the Alter G Anti Gravity Treadmill. Hopefully it will eventually come down to Earth in price and be available for the masses.