5kg shorts help wearer wear less when running

Scientists developed power-sensing shorts, suitable for people who have to travel frequently.

Biomechanics expert Philippe Malcolm from the University of Nebraska Omaha, USA, and his colleagues developed a model of shorts to help wearers save 9% of energy when walking and 4% of energy when running, New Scientist on 15 / 8 coverage. This device can be useful for those who travel a lot like lifeguards, firefighters or military personnel.

Shorts that support the wearer with less energy when exercising.(Photo: New Scientist).

This is not the first suit to help the wearer take care when operating. However, previously made suits only support users walking or running. Malcolm's team said the new shorts could support both of these activities.

The suit weighs 5kg, consists of two cloths wrapped around the thighs connected to the belt on the waist. The cable connecting from the belt to the thigh has the effect of supporting the hip. The sensor in the body helps detect who is walking or running. Meanwhile, the sensor under the thigh is used to identify changes in the foot position.

The rear-mounted engine will pull the cable up just before the front leg touches the ground, assisting the stretcher on the hip and helping the person to wear it. The cable will loose when the hind leg moves forward."When that happens, motion is almost unrestricted , " Malcolm said.

9 participants tested the suit with a running machine, each walked 450m for 5 minutes and ran 750m for 5 minutes. The suit doesn't save much energy yet. Experts need to continue to research and conduct further tests to create a suit that helps the wearer run at a faster pace or for a longer time.