I have run a number of marathons in past years and have always enjoyed running and training. However after many miles and years of training and two minor knee surgeries and avoiding running for a couple of years I was itching to get back to running. I found that even after short runs I would need a couple days to recover because my knees were real tender. Still itching to stay at it but maybe cross train a little better I came across the Zero Runner. The first time I tried it I felt very awkward. I went back to my local fitness equipment store and tried it again. This time it felt a little better. So I decided to purchase the ZR7. I consistently trained just on this piece of equipment for six months and found I could go day after day with out any hip, knee, ankle or foot pain. During that time I went from 20 to 30 minutes to at times over 2 hours for a workout. Well over 50lbs lighter now I recently had one of my boys ask me to go on a slow ten miler on the road. I said sure why not. Well the run went great. The next day I was sore mainly muscle fatigue but felt good, rested and did not run. The next day I got back on my Zero Runner for a little over an hour and felt great. I will no longer hit the road day after day as I did in past years training for marathons. Using the Zero Runner has improved my cardio and overall muscle strength. Highly recommend this piece of equipment from Octane Fitness. So much so I am looking to upgrade to the best Zero Runner they produce!
I bought my Zero Runner on the spot at the Boston Marathon Expo. I knew it was exactly what I was looking for and it hasn't disappointed. I love that I can get on it first thing in the morning and not disturb a soul in the house. It is whisper quiet and even looks great in my living room. In fact, it is a conversation piece of art. It's great for a quick run and ideal for a longer run when time permits. One of the biggest benefits is that it creates time! It's right here and ready to go. I love the zero-impact to my joints and it has for sure contributed to my better conditioning; which was confirmed with my recent time at the Leadville Marathon. Love my Zero Runner and can even run in my Oofos!
I consider myself a runner - I have been running for over 30 years and have completed over 30 marathons including qualifying for Boston seven times. I love the Zero Runner because it lets me perfect my running form with no impact on my joints, even on recovery days. It is also a great workout when the weather is lousy, especially during the winters in the Midwest where I live. There is no way I would be ready to race spring marathons without it. My family also appreciates it because the machine is quiet and I can use it anywhere in the house without having to plug it in.
I am an avid runner and the Zero Runner has allowed me to increase the distance that I run daily. This machine gives me the true feeling of running without the constant pounding of the hard surface beneath my feet. It is the best machine on the market to simulate true running and should be the main piece of any runner's training equipment. I now run 10+ miles daily on the Zero Runner ZR8 and as of today, I have run 446 straight days of at least 10 miles thanks to the Zero Runner. Without this machine I would have never been physically able to withstand the daily grind of all of those miles on the ground. I am now a serious distance runner and am competing in half marathons. At 51 years old I am in the best physical shape of my life due in big part to the results of the ZR8. Keep up the good work Octane and I look forward to the release of the new commercial Zero Runner and can not wait to try one for myself!
Up until last year, when I injured my knee running, I trained for and competed in Olympic distance triathlons for about 8 years. I consider myself an avid runner. After knee surgery, I was told not to run anymore. With my Zero Runner, I can run with no impact on my knee, and I can get my heart rate up to threshold pace and keep it there throughout the duration of my workouts! I love my Zero Runner. I no longer dream of running when I sleep, because now I can run!
I am a runner. I love my Zero Runner because it's no impact on my joints. I run 10 to 11 miles and get off and I am pain-free. It is a wonderful machine.
I love my Zero Runner because it lets me train without injury. I would recommend this for anyone, especially for the older runner who loves running but cannot take the pounding from the roads.
I started running later in life with a goal to run a 5K for my 50th birthday. I achieved that goal and in the process became hooked on running. 5K's then turned into 10K's and then I made the leap to half marathons. Running was a big part of my life and enjoyed every moment of it. A few years ago, I ran a half marathon and experienced some knee pain with 3 miles to go. The pain did not go away and physical therapy was showing only minor improvements. I could run a mile or two on the streets but not much more without pain. I saw an ad for the Zero Runner in a magazine and checked out some of the videos online. It sure seemed like it could be the perfect alternative to running on the streets and still give me the aerobic workout that I needed and get my miles in. I went to a nearby sports equipment store that carried Octane products and gave the Zero Runner a try. The Zero Runner was the perfect solution! I've had my Zero Runner almost 2 years now and my pace is now better than when I ran on the street. I still do 5K's and 10K's on the Zero Runner and just started working up to my first Zero Runner half marathon. I can do all of this without any knee pain. If it were not for the Zero Runner, I would have had to give up something that means so much to me and I thank Octane every day for coming up with such a great product.
We purchased the Zero Runner as a replacement for our elliptical trainer. 3 years ago I had meniscus surgery on my left knee and 2 years ago on my right knee. With arthritis in both knees and trying to train for a triathlon, my orthopedic surgeon said, “Do all of your training non-impact, like on an elliptical, and just run the day of the race to extend the life of your knees.” After training all winter on the elliptical after my second surgery, I ran a 10K and could barely finish it. It took me over an hour. I found that the elliptical didn’t adequately prepare me for running, so when my wife spotted the Zero Runner, I knew we needed to check it out. It has by far been the best piece of exercise equipment we have very purchased. It gets used all the time and is top quality. I’m currently running 6-10 miles per day, typically 5-6 days a week, and have no pain in my knees. My 10K time is now under 40 minutes and my half marathon time is under 1 ½ hrs.
I use my Zero Runner for exercise and to build my cardio. I've had my Zero Runner for almost 4 months now and put over 400 miles and going strong! With almost no impact on my joints, it's very easy to use and feels like my natural stride while running. I would definitely recommend this awesome machine to someone who enjoys running without the harsh impact of the ground.
"My little miracle - I met a former runner recently who had hip replacement surgery and could no longer run and felt my pain. He recommended Octane’s Zero Runner. I tried one out that afternoon, bought it, and had it in my home within a week. It is superior to an elliptical or treadmill in every respect. At first, I could only run five minutes - my ankles hurt and my muscle tone was very poor. After one week of 15 minute runs, I advanced to 20 minutes, then three weeks later 30-45 minutes, and I now run on it WITH A KICK, which I’ve never done before."
I’m a 41 year old mom who was a competitive track runner and soccer player for years. Seven years ago I took up CrossFit as a way to continue to participate in a competitive environment. Three years ago after multiple knee surgeries including 2 ACL surgeries, I was told I was no longer allowed to run (among other restrictions) due to extensive damage in my knee. As you can imagine, this was devastating to me. I loved running and having that taken away really made me sad. Last Christmas, I had just had my 4th knee surgery and my husband found out about the Zero Runner. He went and tried it out first before even telling me about it to ensure it was something I could do and feed that desire to run. IT DID! After trying it in a local store, I loved it immediately. So for Christmas this past year, my husband gave me one of the greatest gifts…the ability to run again. I love my Zero Runner and use it daily. Thank you for coming up with a non-impact form of running. This past Memorial Day, I did the CrossFit work out “Murph” and for the first time in over 3 years, I was able to RUN the workout instead of rowing it. I’m forever grateful for such a great product!
I originally purchased my zero runner after a foot injury. I consider myself a runner, although more or less purely recreational. The machine allowed me to continue to run without the impact to my foot. Little did I know that only a few months later I would be diagnosed with multiple myeloma. I had a stem cell transplant in March and a couple of weeks later I turned to the Zero Runner to help build my endurance back up and help with the recovery process. It enabled me to return to running, especially since I was limited as to how much of the outdoors I could be exposed to. I wouldn't give it up for anything. I'm so happy I discovered it.
I am 59 years old and have run on a treadmill for years to stay in shape. I started developing severe knee pain aggravated by running on the treadmill. An elliptical trainer did not help. I started using my ZR7 in March 2016. I usually run 4 to 6 miles per session on this machine averaging 7:30/mile. I no longer have knee pain thanks to this low impact running machine. I wish I had a portable one to take with me on trips and during my Army Reserve two week training! Thanks Octane for a great invention.
I am a marathon runner, 64 years old, with osteoarthritis, and now a breast cancer survivor. The Zero Runner is a great cross training tool. This winter, during chemotherapy, I could hardly walk, and couldn't even use an elliptical because of nerve pain in my feet, but I was able to continue using my Zero Runner - which really helped me get through.
"The Zero Runner has become a fun and helpful addition to my training. By mostly off-road running and supplementing with Zero Runner sessions, my foot and the rest of my body stay healthy. In fact, I have found the added benefit of the Zero Running is to actually mobilize my ankle and strengthen my running mechanics. Its action is probably as close to running as you can get."
"The Zero Runner is an amazing tool for runners. Whether you are coming back from an injury, or wanting to add cardiovascular fitness without pounding your legs, it is the perfect workout to complement running. I have tried endless different types of exercise equipment over the years, but the Zero Runner is the closest to actual running that I have ever experienced. It is now a part of my routine and it is helping me get stronger and faster without adding unnecessary stress to my legs."
"You don’t have to be an Olympian to train like one. The Zero Runner is authentic running. Now I train smarter."
"I am working towards representing Canada on the World Cross Country team. I’ve had a string of injuries to my Achilles to my Plantar Fascia, which I just had surgery. My Physical Therapist recommended I only use an elliptical machine at the gym for it’s low impact. I hate it. I was in the offices of ROLL Recovery in Boulder, CO and Jeremy suggested I try the ZR8 from Octane Fitness. At first I didn’t know what to expect, but after jumping on it and getting used to it for a few minutes I fell in love. I rode it for 60 minutes that same day! It gave me the feeling of running free. And I could adjust the resistance so I could go from easy gliding to hard efforts. I’ve been incorporating the ZR8 into my training as I recover from surgery. Every serious runner needs one."
"I am a big believer in cross training for my team. I have seen first hand the negative impact too much running can have on a runner - whether a casual or elite runner. My athletes have used different forms of cross training for years with great success. The Zero Runner replicates a running motion better than any cross training device I have seen. Run specific cross training greatly improves my athletes ability to stay healthy and compete."
"As for me, I am exactly halfway between 100s. I ran Keys 100 4 weeks ago, and I run Hardrock 4 weeks from now. Zero Runner was a major part of my recovery/training following Keys. As important as it was to rest my body following Keys, I couldn’t afford just to sit around doing nothing. The zero impact running on Zero Runner allowed me to keep training without risking injury by pounding the pavement with crappy form due to fatigued muscles. Every stride was what I needed to keep the muscles on track! The bottom line is that I quickly saw the benefits of Zero Runner and enjoy telling people about this great training tool."
"I have been using the Zero Runner for about a month and half as supplemental training along with the 65 to 70 miles I run each week. I have found that the Zero Runner has allowed me to maintain and improve my mechanics without the additional stress of pounding pavement. I am able to incorporate roughly four days a week of training on the Zero Runner varying in duration. The ability to work out in all weather and independently has been vital for my training. I am bettering my fitness but remain fresh both physically and mentally after using the Zero Runner. As I transition into Marathon running, I believe it will be an integral part of my training regimen to get me to the next level. In addition, the unit target muscle groups that aren't worked in running. It took less than a day to master the use of the Zero Runner. It is more fluid and smooth in its motion than any other cross training or indoor equipment I have tried"
"Having the ZR8 in our offices in Boulder, CO has been awesome and a game changer in our everyday routine. Our staff is a very active bunch with four professional runners, Adriana Nelson (2:28 Marathoner, 2nd place Chicago Marathon, 2013 U.S. National Half Marathon Champion), Andrew Wacker (2015 50k U.S. National Trail Champion), Nuta Olaru (2:24 Marathoner), Matt Hensley (2:19 Marathoner). So this means we are always looking for ways to keep our training volume high during the week days. What separates the ZR8 from a treadmill or standard elliptical machine is the feeling it gives you of running free, without the heavy impact that running too many miles can give you. And most importantly, it’s fun to use! We have an ongoing competition in the office of who can push it the furthest. If this machine can stand up to our abuse, it can stand up to anyone.
We’ve noticed the ZR8 going from a replacement to running to an addition to our running training program. Because it’s low impact, means we can add more aerobic capacity, without the wear and tear of heavy impact running from the roads. We love it.
"I am multi-disciplined distance runner competing over all terrains and distances. The ZR8 Zero Runner allows me to continue to train on my recovery days building aerobic strength and improving range of motion all without impact. The ZR8 decreases the amount of time I need to recover between workouts and leaves me feeling strong and fresh on my runs the next day. Balancing a busy lifestyle of work, family, and as an athlete can be difficult but owning a ZR8 right at home leaves me no excuses to miss a workout on those extra-busy days. The silence of the ZR8 allows me to workout without disturbing the family at any hour of the day or night.
The Zero Runner is the perfect supplement to my training"
"In 2014 I had been suffering from Achilles tendinitis and could not stop racing or bring myself to completely stop running. I had just completed my first Ironman and was still running 50-70 miles a week. I needed rest to fully heal, but the psyche of a runner of 25 plus years is a complicated beast and I just could not stay off my feet. I had never owned a piece of fitness equipment, so was skeptical when I was first introduced to the Zero Runner. I could not believe when I stepped on the ZR7 how natural the movement felt. It was if I was running on air from push down to kick back. I was immediately hooked. The Zero Runner with it’s no impact was a gift that I needed at just the right time. I immediately took my workouts from the pavement and trail to the Zero Runner. Over the course of the next few months I strictly stuck to running only on the Zero Runner. Confident that my Achilles was healing, I slowly began to incorporate running outdoors while still doing 80% of my runs on the Zero Runner. The real test came when it was time to run a marathon that had been on my calendar. Race day was an eye opening, amazing experience. I could not believe how strong my core, glutes, and hamstrings felt the entire race. It was not a PR, but I was every bit ecstatic about my performance, and I had the Zero Runner to thank for that. Now healed and back on the road, I am still on the Zero for about 30% of my miles in the summer and during winter months about 50%. It is now second nature to hop on the Zero for training and recovery. I believe the Zero Runner not only helped me recover from my injury, but also will help keep me running for years to come."
"My wife surprised, and ordered me a zero runner for Father's Day. I was excited and very surprised. She went and picked it up in Aurora at 2nd wind. I put it together yesterday and used it today. I wasn't sure ahead of time how far I was gonna go, my body felt great no pain in my knee ( and still have no pain) so I kept going. 13.1 was what I did for my inaugural zero runner workout. 13.1 in 1:41 I was tickled. I know after one session with the zero runner it's going to make me a better runner"
"I am loving the zero runner. Am doing all my sessions (speed work, tempo, endurance and recovery) on it. I had my best half ironman performance to date. I attribute much of the success to the zero runner post bilateral
microfracture surgery."
"Sick of pounding the pavement? The Zero Runner offers an alternative to the treadmill and elliptical. The whisper-quiet cardio machine mimics the bend of the hip and knee joints, so users really feel like they're out for a jog."
