Hadfield makes unique 800K journey on ElliptiGo

Endurance athlete Jenny Hadfield is making an 800 kilometre trip from Chicago to Toronto on an elliptical bike, called the "ElliptiGo."

Endurance athlete Jenny Hadfield is making an 800 kilometre trip from Chicago to Toronto on an elliptical bike, called the “ElliptiGo.”

She plans to arrive in time for the Scotibank Toronto Waterfront Marathon on Sept. 26.

Hadfield hopes to introduce Canadians to the world of outdoor low-impact running. Elliptical machines are popular at workout gyms, but few people have actually taken them out to ride on the street.

A California-based company makes the ElliptiGo 8S, which retails for $2,499.

“The ElliptiGO combines the cardiovascular intensity of running with the low-impact benefits of cycling,” Hadfield said.

“Compared to conventional road biking, elliptical biking burns more calories over an equivalent distance, so this will be a much more physically demanding ride for me than if I were just riding my road bike.”

Hadfield will make her way into the record books upon completion of the 800K ElliptiGo trip, as she becomes the first woman to attempt such a feat.

“The low-impact nature of elliptical biking will allow me to go for harder and longer because I won’t be straining my joints-by getting rid of those traditional factors that limit my distance running, I will be able to push to the absolute limits of my cardio base and leg strength.”

While Hadfield’s marathon ride will certainly raise the profile of the ElliptiGo, the manufacturers hope it catches on with the masses.

“For most people, the ElliptiGO is not about riding for hours on end setting world records.  It’s about spending 30-45 minutes outside every day getting in a great low-impact workout that’s fun and comfortable,” said ElliptiGO co-founder and co-president, Brent Teal.

“As everyone knows, the pounding of running causes a lot of injuries. By eliminating the impact, the ElliptiGO provides the most comfortable and effective outdoor workout experience available today — one that anyone can do day in and day out without damaging their body.”

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