A jetpack being developed at Arizona State University allows runners to decrease their run times and use less energy.

But the jetpack isn't designed with everyday runners in mind. The project, called 4MM, is the latest DARPA funded effort to create super-soldiers and give them an edge on the battlefield. The goal is to get every soldier to run a 4 minute mile with ease.[vimeo clip_id="98084869"]A soldier can theoretically run a 4 minute mile without jetpack assistance, but the jetpack would ensure that every soldier could easily meet this goal. Testing so far has shown that runners use less energy and shave seconds off their runs, despite wearing the 11 pound jetpack. But they haven't achieved the four minute goal yet."In a warfare type arena, this could potentially be the difference between life and death," said jetpack developer Jason Kerestes.

Rachel Paxton-Gillilan is a freelance writer. She can sometimes be found on Twitter