The StreetStrider is a mobile elliptical trainer invented by David W. Kraus, PhD,[1][2] former Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Health Sciences at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The StreetStrider consists of a T-shaped lower frame to which two front wheels and a rear wheel containing a drive assembly are attached, and an upright frame to which two reciprocating arm levers are attached. Two elongated foot platforms on either side of the lower frame are attached to cranks as part of the drive assembly, which, as with bicycle drivetrain systems, also includes a hub, a rotating axle, and an internal hub gear system translating the axle rotation to the hub. The lower end of each arm lever is attached to the front end of each foot platform, which, by connection in the rear to the rotating crank arm and in the front to the pivoting arm lever, moves generally in an elliptical path. The device also includes a leaning mechanism for steering, as well as brakes and multiple gearing.
The StreetStrider duplicates the motion of a stationary elliptical trainer in a mobile device. The rider achieves a full-body weight-bearing low-impact high-cardiovascular workout while moving outdoors.[3] With a bicycle trainer, several models of the StreetStrider can be fashioned into stationary indoor elliptical trainers, able to be used during inclement weather. The StreetStrider can be used for physical fitness,[4][5][6] weight loss,[7], physical therapy, human-powered transport, and outdoor adventure.[8] The American Council on Exercise (ACE), a nonprofit fitness certification and education provider, recently commissioned exercise physiologist John Porcari, Ph.D., and his team at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse to perform a study comparing the StreetStrider to a stationary elliptical trainer. The team found that in every measure they made, including heart rate, oxygen consumption rate, percent of VO2 max, calorie burn rate and rating of perceived exertion, the StreetStrider outperformed the stationary elliptical trainer.[9] ACE’s Chief Science Officer Cedric Bryant, Ph.D. is quoted as saying, "This is one exercise product that actually lives up to its billing.” "Overall, we found that the StreetStrider provides a tremendous workout and is a legitimate alternative to indoor cardio machines," added Bryant. "The product encourages riders to engage more of their muscles for an effective total-body workout, while enjoying the benefits of an outdoor workout."[10]