Treadmill to Generate Electricity by Human Power: A Review

Abstract

The increasing cost of electricity is largely due to insufficient power production and the growing demand for energy. Conventional power generation methods, especially those dependent on non-renewable resources, contribute significantly to environmental degradation. As a result, there is a critical need to develop alternative, environmentally friendly methods of generating electricity. This study investigates an innovative technique that involves generating power using manual treadmills. By connecting a generator to the rotating shaft of the treadmill, human motion can be transformed into electrical energy. This method produces no pollution and is capable of generating around 50–60 watts of power per hour. As a person walks on the manual treadmill, the force they apply causes the shaft to spin. This rotational motion is then mechanically transferred to a DC generator, which creates electricity. Due to the uneven application of force, the power output can be inconsistent, so a charge controller is used to regulate the electricity, ensuring a steady output. The energy produced is stored in a battery for future use. This technique presents a sustainable and creative solution for generating electricity on a small scale.

Introduction

1. Introduction

• With the rising demand for clean energy and growing environmental concerns, there's an urgent need for sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels.

• This project proposes a novel method to generate electricity by harnessing human kinetic energy from treadmill workouts.

• Treadmills, commonly found in gyms and homes, involve repetitive human motion that can be used to drive a generator for producing electricity.

• The energy generated can be stored in batteries or used directly, turning exercise into a dual-purpose activity: fitness and green energy production.

2. Design and Engineering

• The treadmill design is optimized to convert mechanical motion into electrical energy.

• Key components include:

  • A shaft made from C45 steel with a diameter of 30 mm, designed for a load of 150 kg.

  • Bearings selected based on calculated loads and a lifespan of 16,000 hours.

  • A belt transmission system with a width of 50 cm and a total belt length of 325 cm.

• Gears are used to multiply rotational speed, enhancing electricity generation efficiency.

• The treadmill is designed to withstand typical human motion and efficiently transfer that energy to a generator.

3. Problem Identification

• Reliance on non-renewable energy sources is a major contributor to pollution and ecological degradation.

• This system addresses that by converting routine physical activity into electricity, particularly suitable for gyms and high-traffic fitness centers.

• Estimated output: 10 treadmills could generate up to 500 kWh annually, contributing to reduced electricity demand and emissions.

4. Literature Review Highlights

Various studies support the feasibility and benefits of human-powered energy systems:

• Pansare et al. focused on using human energy for everyday devices (e.g., charging phones).

• Gopinath et al. proposed footstep energy systems in high-traffic areas.

• Burkul et al. developed treadmill-based bicycles for dual utility.

• Harsha et al. demonstrated low-cost electricity from treadmills using dynamos.

• Gandhewar et al. explored energy harvesting in malls and offices.

• Akter et al. designed piezoelectric footstep systems for urban settings.

• Abhiram et al. introduced a treadmill-tricycle hybrid for sustainable transport.

• Debnath et al. focused on electricity generation in rural areas.

• Ali et al. combined health and sustainability in a manual treadmill generator.

Conclusion

The treadmill-based electricity generation system explored in this study offers a promising and sustainable approach to meeting the increasing demand for energy while simultaneously reducing environmental pollution. By capturing kinetic energy from human movement, such as walking or running, the system effectively converts mechanical motion into electrical power through a simple, eco-friendly process. The inclusion of a small DC generator, combined with a charge controller, enables the generation of 50-60 watts per hour, providing a reliable source of clean energy, especially in areas with limited access to traditional power sources. This research highlights the practicality of utilizing manual treadmills for small-scale power generation, making it a feasible solution for both personal and community-level energy needs. The system is particularly beneficial in regions with inadequate electricity infrastructure or where environmental sustainability is a priority. With its straightforward design, low production cost, and ease of implementation, this technology has significant scalability, making it ideal for widespread adoption. Additionally, the combination of fitness and energy generation offers dual advantages—promoting public health while fostering energy conservation. This project opens the door for further advancements in clean, human-powered energy solutions, providing a novel approach to reducing the negative environmental impacts of non-renewable energy production. In conclusion, the research demonstrates the potential of this innovative treadmill system to support sustainable energy practices, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to a greener, healthier future.

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 V. B. Vaidya, Harsh Rangari, Kantesh Thakare , Harsh Gotmare. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.