I loathe running. While I don’t mind lifting weights to hold off aging, I can’t stand the thought of putting my legs through the drudgery of running. But Nike is here to change that with Project Amplify, a footwear system designed to provide wearers with “a second set of calf muscles”—a much-needed boost for those like me.

Targeted at “everyday athletes,” this system combines a lightweight electric motor with an exoskeleton-like frame to enhance lower leg and ankle movements.

Nike, paired with robotics partner Dephy, claims this innovation will redefine running, jogging, and walking. Imagine zooming through a trip to the store—“get out of my way, grandma, I need milk quickly!”

According to Michael Donaghu, the mastermind behind this project, the aim is to seamlessly integrate extra power into your stride. “It’s all about realizing your potential, whatever that means for you,” adds Donaghu. While these innovative shoes likely won’t turn you into a superhero, they’re certainly a stride in the right direction for better movement.

Early testing has shown promise, with over 400 athletes logging 2.4 million steps over several prototypes, proving that the future of running might just be upon us. Reports suggest users have found the shoes incredibly comfortable and beneficial, even stating that running uphill feels like flat terrain.

So perhaps in a few years, I might not just walk to the train station in 20 minutes but perhaps do it in 18, leaving me a little more time for rest. Bring on the future of augmented footwear!