The “California” Fitness Center, ironically enough, in Hong Kong, is using manpower to generate electricity for its gym. In good hampster-wheel style they’ve hooked their exercise machines to a system which converts their members' workout into electricity. There’s no wastage here, even the excess energy is stored in a battery, and they’re not hiding things either when they call the programme ‘Powered By You’. It's been invented by French innovator Lucien Gambarota - France, California, Hong Kong, what an international effort. I wonder if you get money off your membership depending on how much power you pump?
[via ShinyShiny]
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Their 13 step, cycling, and cross-training machines can generated 300 watts - enough to run three 27-inch television screens or five 60-watt lights. The California has invested $15,000 in the project and are hoping to expand it out to their fitness centres across Asia and eventually to the US.
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes