BodyEnergy launches Kickstarter for human-powered home treadmills

BodyEnergy Technology has launched a Kickstarter for two home versions of its Ab-Drive treadmill, which got a Special Mention in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026. The campaign aims to bring the motor-free design to home users with a safer, electricity-free running option that simulates natural outdoor stride mechanics.

Why it matters: - BodyEnergy Technology is trying to move a previously commercial treadmill design into homes. - The Ab-Drive platform is built for motor-free running, which can cut electricity use and change how indoor training feels. - The new home models target users who want speed control, a stop-on-you safety function and higher-intensity workouts without a powered belt.

What happened: - BodyEnergy Technology launched a Kickstarter campaign for two home models of the Ab-Drive BodyEnergy treadmill. - The launch took place on Oct. 27, 2026, in Irvine, California. - The Ab-Drive treadmill was recently named a Special Mention in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2026. - The Kickstarter is live at the campaign page.

The details: - Both home models use the patented Ab-Drive system. - The treadmill captures the user’s backward stride push through a front abdominal roller. - The belt runs without electricity because the machine is human-powered. - Users control speed directly. - The treadmill includes an immediate stop-on-you safety function. - Adjustable magnetic resistance adds parachute-like drag for harder training and HIIT workouts. - The two home versions use different belt options to fit different needs and budgets. - The commercial Ab-Drive model debuted at the 2026 HFA Fitness Expo. - UFC Gym Torrance is already using the commercial model. - First-time members at UFC Gym Torrance learned to operate the machine within seconds. - Founder and CEO Hui Yan, Ph.D., said the company is excited to bring BodyEnergy home after more than a decade of development. - Yan said the TIME Special Mention validates the company’s approach. - Yan said the home models offer a safer, greener way to run indoors. - The original Hand-Drive version of BodyEnergy was named a TIME Best Invention of 2021. - The Ab-Drive models are meant to better simulate outdoor running biomechanics on a compact platform. - More information is available at BodyEnergy Technology.

Between the lines: - The Kickstarter suggests BodyEnergy is using consumer crowdfunding to test demand before a wider home launch. - The TIME recognition gives the company a strong third-party signal as it tries to expand beyond commercial buyers. - The product pitch is centered on safety, sustainability and a more natural running motion, which may help it stand out in a crowded home fitness market.

What's next: - The Kickstarter campaign will determine whether BodyEnergy can convert interest into preorders or early backers. - BodyEnergy is likely to keep pointing to the commercial rollout and TIME recognition as proof of product credibility. - The company’s next challenge is turning the Ab-Drive concept into a home product that can scale beyond early adopters. - Media contact: John Jensen, BodyEnergy Technology, 949-774-9012, info@betechco.com