This Floating Gym in Paris Converts Human Energy to Utility-Grade Electricity

How many times have we convinced ourselves to exercise regularly only to lose the drive to work out a few days into the program? We have continuously recited silent mantras in our head in an effort to persevere, only to lose from the comfort of our warm and cozy beds and, well, the irresistible taste of that succulent steak. True, being fit and healthy requires will and determination – something that is not innate of everyone.

Interestingly, Carlo Ratti Associati, an Italian innovation and design firm, thought of a brilliant way to encourage people to exercise, and at the same time, harness human power.

They created a boat that will require its passengers to exercise to keep it sailing along the River Seine. The boat will utilize the pedal power and convert it to utility-grade electricity. In the event that there aren’t enough people aboard, energy will be harnessed from the photovoltaic cells installed on the boat’s roof. Pretty creative, huh?

Exercising while sightseeing – not bad!

Carlo Ratti, the firm owner, said:

“It’s fascinating to see how the energy generated by a workout at the gym can actually help to propel a boat. It provides one with a tangible experience of what lies behind the often abstract notion of ‘electric power’.

The boat boasts of a sleek design.

The floating gym offers people a unique environment for working out.

The 20-meter-long boat called the Paris Navigating Gym can accommodate approximately 45 people. The project is yet to be completed and designers say that it may take 18 months before the boat’s maiden voyage.

“The Paris Navigating Gym investigates the potential of harnessing human power,” says Carlo Rotti.

Now, that’s one more item to add to that Paris bucket list!