A lot has been written about how baby boomers are poised to live longer and healthier than any previous generation. In reality, while we are benefiting from higher incomes and better healthcare than our parents and grandparents, our expanding waistlines are erasing many of these gains.

If we are going to get the most from the coming decades, we need to find ways to get in better shape. We will also need to find ways to overcome our everyday aches and pains so that we can stay active longer. Is it possible that a new pair of robo boots could help us bounce back?

These Boots Were Made for Boomers

When you think about the word “exoskeleton,” what images pop into your mind? Maybe you imagine a futuristic soldier, wrapped in shiny metal on a distant battle field. Or, maybe you picture an astronaut, exploring a rocky valley on a dusty red planet. You probably don’t picture a semi-retired tax consultant from Colorado, jogging along a trail in the Rocky Mountains.

Well, if researchers from the University of North Carolina have anything to say about it, you may soon see more boomers bouncing along in their exoskeleton boots.

These scientists are working on a spring-based system that requires no outside power and makes walking up to 7% more efficient. That may not seem like a big boost, but, it could be just what boomers need to put the spring back in their step. Pun intended.

Here’s a quick video that shows the device in action.

I’m curious what you think about this. Would use an exoskeleton to enhance your walking, strength or some other physical attribute?

What do you think about this device? Do you think that it is something that you would use? Why or why not? Please join the conversation.